Working for the police seems simple. But it’s not as easy as many people think. This work involves much more than just issuing tickets. To become a police officer you have to study. During the study you will learn what you should do as a police officer in different situations. People are not simply admitted to police training. First of all, you must of course apply to the force where you want to work. During an intake interview, we will determine whether working for the police is really something for you. If you are approved, various tests will be done to find out whether you are suitable for police work.
The first tests you need to do
Before you start the real tests you will be given a number of questionnaires. You must first take an IQ test and a language test. You will also receive a questionnaire about your personality. The next step after completing all these lists is the sports test.
The sports test
The sports test examines your fitness. As a police officer you naturally have to be in good shape. They look for people in good shape and with strength. One of the parts of the sports test is an obstacle course that you have to complete as quickly as possible. Men have to walk that track in 3:20 minutes and women in 4:00 minutes. Anyone who wants to work for the police would do well to train well in advance for this sports test.
Completing the questionnaires and taking the sports test are part of the first part of the admission process. Those who successfully complete these tests can continue with the tests that follow. The result is usually announced at the end of the day of the sports test.
The psychological test
The psychological test is considered strict. To work for the police you have to have a certain character. During the interviews, we will check whether you are a good fit for the police. There are a few points to pay attention to. The ideal candidate must be able to work with others. He must be someone who does not panic easily and he must be able to deal with stressful situations. It is also important that he is not aggressive and can remain calm in certain situations. They are looking for someone who is flexible. He must be able to deal with flexibility, for example in working hours. Participants in the psychological test also receive a practical test to see how they react in practice.
Conversation with the corps
A report is drawn up of the psychological test. Based on this, the force will invite you for an interview. The results of the test are discussed during the conversation. They will then check whether you fit in with the force. If they consider you suitable for working in the police, you must take two more tests before you are admitted to the training.
The medical test
The medical test that follows is usually done by a doctor’s assistant. The points that are checked are; height, weight, glucose, blood pressure, hearing test, visual field test, color test, eye test.
Safety research
The final step in the process is the safety investigation. Your past will be examined during that investigation. They will then check whether you have had any dealings with the law or the police in the past. This aspect is also very important because someone who wants to work in the police is of course expected to comply with the laws.