Am I eligible?

Applicants from all backgrounds and ethnic groups are encouraged to apply. Applicants are not limited to any particular age group - in fact we welcome those who are looking for a careers change.

The minimum age to apply is 18, and there is no upper age limit, although you should bear in mind that the normal retirement age for police constables and sergeants is 60.

You should also bear in mind that all new recruits, whatever their age, are required to undertake a two-year probationary period.

Guidelines for applicants

As you might imagine, applicant guidelines are fairly comprehensive, but here are a few of the key ones:

• there are no minimum or maximum height requirements;
• there is no formal educational requirement, but you will have to pass written tests;
• you  must be either a British Citizen, a citizen of the EU or other states in the EEA, or a Commonwealth citizen or foreign national with indefinite leave to remain in the UK;
• Foreign nationals and UK citizens who have lived abroad will have to wait three years for security and vetting clearance. All applicants have to be vetted to the same standard before appointment;
• although you may still be eligible to join the police service if you have minor convictions or cautions, there are certain offences and conditions that will make you ineligible (contact the recruiting team for more information);
• you must physically and mentally be able to undertake police duties.

A more detailed list of eligibility requirements can be found at the 'Could You? Police' website.

Do you qualify?

You might like to complete the police officer eligibility questionnaire on the 'Could you? Police' website.

If you have any specific questions, you can always contact us for more information.