What are the police officer requirements in the UK?

To become a police officer, you must be willing to work and learn all the skills required for this challenging but rewarding role. Through comprehensive police training, you will learn how to safeguard the general public from violence, support victims of crime, investigate complex crimes and provide reassurance to the community. Learn more about the skills and training required to become a police officer in the UK.

Your age and ethnicity

Criteria required
You must be at least 18 years old to join one of the many police departments in the UK. All new police recruits must work for two years under probation, irrespective of their age. Whatever your background or ethnic group, you are encouraged to consider joining the police force to become a cop. However, you must be a British Citizen, an EU citizen, a Commonwealth citizen or a foreign national with no restrictions on your ability to stay in the UK.

Your physical appearance and educational status

Appearance and education You can work in the police force regardless of your height. Prospective police officers should be free of tattoos which may cause offense. There are no formal educational requirements to join the police force. However, you will need to pass a written examination.

Your financial and criminal background

Credit check All prospective police officers will undergo a credit check. Applicants in possession of outstanding County Court judgments and those who have declared themselves bankrupt with outstanding debts are highly likely to be rejected. Minor convictions/cautions may not restrict your eligibility to work in the police service. However, eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Your health and fitness

Physical fitness and mental condition You must be physically and mentally fit enough to join the police force. All police officers are required to move quickly, while in possession of heavy equipment. This means that prospective police officers have to be fit. If you successfully pass the assessment process, you will be required to take a fitness test. Both your dynamic strength and your endurance fitness will be tested through police fitness tests.
Need to undergo medical examination As part of the police officer recruitment process, you will be required to undergo a medical examination. All applicants will undergo an eye test during their medical assessment. Failure to pass an eye test is likely to result in a rejection.