Becoming a police officer is an extremely challenging effort and requires a great deal of preperatory work. The process itself is demanding, but the work that is required before you even begin to consider applying could take years as well. Each service is a bit different, so it is important to thuroughly research the service you are interested in applying. The general process with most police services is as follows.

1) Preparing an application - In order to do this successfully you will have to be fully prepared with as much education, work experience, volunteer experience and skills / training as you can have.

2) Written Testing - Some services require you to pass the testing before you apply, but either way, you will have to get through both stages. Testing usually involves intelligence (numerical, verbal, logical reasoning, etc), and / or behavioural tests. It may take place in one day or it may be separated.

Sample Test Questions - Canada

Sample Test Questions - USA

3) Fitness Testing - Almost every service has a fitness test. Many use obstacle courses and shuttle runs, while other services have specific physical tasks (push-ups, sit-ups, running, etc.). Strength, endurance, speed and flexibility all have to be enhanced.

4) Interviews - There are several types of interviews you may encounter, including behavioural, local focus, panel and / or scenario interviews.5) Psychological Testing - Some services require a written psychological test and / or an interview with a psychologist.

6) Background check - Police will perform an extensive criminal, financial and personal background check.

These stages can be very challenging, and you should make sure you are absolutely prepared for every step along the process.