Specials application and recruitment process

Stage one – online application

You must complete the initial application form online. You may also be subject to preliminary vetting checks at this stage. Please also check the medical standards for details of which illnesses, injuries and disorders will affect your ability to perform the role of a police officer - these also apply to specials.

Stage two – shortlisting

If your application form is shortlisted to progress to the next stage then you will be invited to an assessment centre.

Stage three – online test

You will be asked to complete an online test which will consist of two questions.

Stage four – vetting and medical

Following successful completion of the Assessment Centre, you will be required to complete a recruitment vetting e-form which will ask more details about you and those you live with. You will also be required to undertake biometric vetting, which involves your DNA and fingerprints being obtained.

Fitness test

Officers, detectives and PCSOs need to be able to run after an offender, to help a victim or to a colleague in need. Which is why they need to reach a certain level on the job-related fitness test at the start and throughout their time with us.

To pass the fitness test you will need to reach level 5.4 on the 15m bleep test which is just under six minutes of running.  Watch our video about the test and our hints and tips to help you prepare.