Application process

Male officer in plain clothes sitting at a desk with a uniformed female officer standing beside him.

When you’re ready, we can help you find the best entry route and prepare for the application process.

Male officer chatting to two female officers at night on the street.

Entry routes

There are a number of different entry routes to becoming a police officer, depending on your previous employment and educational qualifications.

Ways in to policing

Application stages

Applying to the police involves a number of stages. Take some time to get familiar with each step. It will boost your confidence and ensure you have the opportunity to shine when the times comes.

Get ready to apply

Positive action

Many police forces also offer positive action initiatives (such as online engagement sessions or mentoring) to specifically support people from under-represented groups to apply. So it's worth checking out your chosen force’s website to see what positive action initiatives they’re running before you apply.

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