Inspector Promotion
Process Explained (UK)
From Sergeant to Inspector under NPPF Step Two
Direct Answer
To be promoted to Inspector in the UK, a Sergeant must pass the NPPF Step Two legal exam, complete a local selection process (often involving a board or interview), and demonstrate competence against the Competency and Values Framework (CVF). Promotion is not automatic after passing the exam.
The journey from Sergeant to Inspector marks the transition from team supervision to organisational leadership.
Executive Summary
Inspector promotion is fundamentally different from Sergeant promotion. It requires demonstrating strategic thinking and evidence of leadership beyond team supervision.
Section 1:
The Promotion Structure
Step 1 – Eligibility
Eligibility standards are set locally, but typical requirements include being a substantive Sergeant, having a minimum time in rank (force dependent), and having no live misconduct or performance issues in good standing.
Eligibility standards are set locally, but exam standards are national. You must satisfy both to proceed.
Step 2 – NPPF Step Two Legal Examination
The NPPF Step Two Legal Examination is a multiple-choice format test of legislative knowledge. It is often more complex than Step One, with a higher expectation of supervisory application rather than pure recall.
Section 2:
Testing Accountability
The Step Two exam assumes you already know operational law. It focuses on supervisory accountability, authorisation thresholds, and decision defensibility.
"Is there a power to arrest under Section 24 PACE?"
"What are the necessity criteria for Continued Detention and is the decision defensible under ECHR?"
Section 3:
Local selection boards
Passing Step Two qualifies you; it does not promote you. Most forces require a further competitive selection process, typically including a promotion board, structured interview, and portfolio review.
Supt, HR Dept, & External Member
Interview & Written Exercise
CVF Competency Standards
Section 4:
The CVF Shift
At Inspector level, the CVF expectations shift from doing to shaping. Inspectors are resource owners and policy interpreters.
Section 6:
Why Sergeants Fail
Strong team leadership but weak strategic view of organisational risk.
No record of leading structural change beyond personal casework.
Cannot articulate the regulatory framework (Police Regs, Conduct) at scale.
Still operating as a 'Super-Sergeant' rather than an Inspector.
Section 7:
The Mindset Shift
The Sergeant Thinks
"Is this lawful?
Can we lock them up?"
The Inspector Thinks
"Is this sustainable, defensible, and proportionate at scale?"
Section 9:
Readiness Check
Promotion Diagnostic
Inspector Readiness Check
Complete all checks for diagnostic output
Section 10:
Politics & Visibility
While boards are structured and evidence-based, reputational credibility and visibility within the force matter. This is not about 'sucking up', but about exposure to top-level decision making and seeking development conversations with senior officers.
Promotion FAQ
How do you become an Inspector in the UK?
Pass NPPF Step Two legal exam, be a substantive Sergeant, and pass a local force selection board.
Do you need to pass an exam for Inspector?
Yes, the NPPF Step Two Legal Examination is a mandatory requirement.
How hard is the Inspector exam?
Technically dense; it shifts from crime recall to supervisory accountability and authorisation law.
Is Inspector promotion automatic after passing Step Two?
No. The exam only qualifies you to apply for available vacancies and promotion boards.
How long does it take to become an Inspector?
Typically 2-5 years as a substantive Sergeant to build enough evidence for a board.
Knowledge Web
This guide is provided for educational and career-development purposes. It is based on the National Police Promotion Framework (NPPF) standards as of 2026. Official guidance should always be sought from your force's HR or Promotion Department.