How to become a police officer: constable, SI, DSP or IPS
Every route into the police – state constable, sub-inspector, SSC CPO, state PSC (DSP) and UPSC (IPS) – with eligibility and physical tests.
| Rank | Route | Minimum education |
|---|---|---|
| Constable (state police) | State police recruitment board (e.g. UP Police) | 10th/12th (varies by state) |
| Constable (CAPF) | SSC GD | 10th |
| Sub-Inspector (state) | State SI exams | Graduation |
| Sub-Inspector (Delhi Police, CAPF) | SSC CPO | Graduation |
| Assistant Commandant (CAPF) | UPSC CAPF | Graduation |
| Deputy SP | State PSC | Graduation |
| IPS | UPSC CSE | Graduation |
Physical tests
Almost all police recruitments include a running test and physical measurements (height, chest for men). Begin training months before the exam – many candidates who pass the written test fail the physical test.
Preparation
- Written tests focus on general knowledge, reasoning, maths, and Hindi/English.
- State-specific GK matters for state police exams.
- Keep caste, domicile and other certificates ready in the required format.
Still confused?Take the 2-minute career finder quiz, or check which government exams you are already eligible for.Career quizEligibility
Course fees, seats, exam patterns and salaries change over time and differ between institutions and states. Use this guide to plan, and confirm details on official websites before you decide.
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