The Short Answer
The police recruitment process usually includes an application form, assessments or interviews, medical and fitness checks, vetting, and then an offer with a start date. Timelines vary by force and route, and delays are common, especially during vetting and references.
On this page
Overview
While every force manages its own recruitment, they all follow the College of Policing's national standard. The process is linear – you must pass each stage to move to the next.
The Process
Application & Sifting
This is your first impression. You will complete an online form detailing your eligibility, education, and employment history. You may also complete an online "Sift" – a situational judgement test where you rank responses to policing scenarios.
Tip
Assessments & Interviews
Most forces now use the Online Assessment Centre. This includes:
- Competency-based interview: You record video answers to questions about past experiences.
- Written exercise: You write a report based on information provided.
- Briefing exercise: You review material and answer questions on how you would handle a situation.
You are scored against the Competency and Values Framework (CVF).
References & Checks
Forces will contact your current and previous employers (usually covering the last 3-5 years). They are looking for employment gaps and disciplinary records. Ensure your contact details for referees are up to date to avoid delays.
Medical & Fitness
Once you pass the assessment, you move to face-to-face checks:
- Medical: A nurse or doctor checks your hearing, eyesight, BMI, and lung function. They review your medical history (statements from your GP).
- Fitness: The 15m bleep test (Level 5.4).
- Biometrics: Consists of DNA samples (mouth swab) and fingerprints.
Vetting & Offer
This runs in the background and is the deep dive into your life, finances, and family. It can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 4 months depending on complexity.
Passing everything doesn't mean you start on Monday. You will be placed in a pool of successful candidates and offered a start date for the next available intake.
Common delays
The process is slow. Common bottlenecks include:
- GP Reports: Doctors can take weeks to return medical forms.
- References: Previous employers not responding.
- Vetting Referrals: If something comes up (a family member with a record), it goes to a manual review, which adds weeks.
Common mistakes
- Handing in notice too early: DO NOT quit your current job until you have a signed, unconditional offer letter.
- Missing emails: Check your spam folder daily. Deadlines for booking medicals are strict.
- Assuming 'No News is Bad News': Silence is normal. Vetting takes time.
What to do next
- Use the Timeline Planner (below) to see how long your force usually takes.
- Start training for the bleep test immediately.
- Notify your references that they will be contacted.
Recruitment Timeline Planner
Estimate how long the process takes based on your region and entry route.
Application Timing Explorer
Is now the right time? Weigh up financial buffers and life stages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many stages are in the police application process?
There are typically 5 main stages: Online application (including behavioural tests), Assessment Centre (online or in-person), Medical/Fitness, Vetting/Biometrics, and Final Offer.
Can I apply to more than one police force at a time?
Yes, you can usually apply to multiple forces simultaneously. However, you can only sit the Assessment Centre once in a 6-month period. Your score is banked and can be transferred to other forces.
What happens if I fail the police assessment centre?
If you fail, you must wait 6 months before you can retake it. You can apply to other forces, but you cannot resit the assessment until the 6-month period has passed.
How long does the whole process take?
It varies significantly, but 6-9 months is typical. Some forces with urgent recruitment needs may be faster (3-4 months), while others can take longer due to vetting backlogs.
Is there an interview in the police application?
Yes. The Assessment Centre includes a competency-based interview. Some forces also hold a final interview after the assessment centre to check your specific suitability for their force values.
Do I get paid during the application process?
No. You are only paid once you receive your start date and begin your training (Day 1 of service).
What is the hardest part of the police application?
Statistically, the Assessment Centre (online assessments) sees the highest drop-off. Vetting also accounts for a significant number of rejections or delays.
Can I withdraw my application?
Yes, you can withdraw at any stage without penalty. If you re-apply later, you will simply restart the process.
Independence Statement: Police Pay UK is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with any police force or the College of Policing. Official policies can change; always verify with your chosen force's recruitment team.
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