Getting Started in Policing

If you’re considering a future in policing, this is a great place to begin.

Getting Started in Policing

If you’re considering a future in policing, this is a great place to begin.

What you need to know up front

In Ontario, the process of becoming a police officer is fairly consistent across services, though each one may have its own unique details or additional requirements.

Generally, applicants need to meet a few key criteria:

Physical fitness

You will need to demonstrate a basic level of fitness and submit a two-week fitness log.

Vision & hearing standards

Applicants must meet specific medical benchmarks to ensure safe and effective performance on the job.

First aid & CPR Certification

You will need valid certification by the time a job offer is made.

Valid Driver’s license

A valid Ontario driver’s license is required to apply.

Clean criminal record

All applicants undergo a background check as part of the process.

Strong Communication & Integrity

Clear thinking, empathy and sound judgment are key to success in this role.

Five steps everyone takes

Make sure you meet the minimum qualifications set out in the Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA) including fitness, education, licensing and background standards. Some services may have additional requirements, so it’s worth checking the website of a specific service you may be interested in joining.

The OACP Certificate is a mandatory pre-screening requirement for many police services in Ontario. It includes online testing, a fitness log, and medical documentation. Since some services require this certificate before you apply, it’s important to check their website first to confirm what’s needed.

Once you have your OACP Certificate, you can apply directly to the police service of your choice. Each service has its own application process, so follow their specific instructions.

After successfully completing all stages of the application process, you will receive an offer from the police service that hired you and officially begin your journey as a recruit.

This is where you answer the call. At the Ontario Police College, you will train alongside other new recruits and build the skills you need to succeed. From physical fitness to communication and real-world scenarios, it’s an intense and rewarding step on your path to becoming an officer.

  • Meet the requirements

    Make sure you meet the minimum qualifications set out in the Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA) including fitness, education, licensing and background standards. Some services may have additional requirements, so it’s worth checking the website of a specific service you may be interested in joining.

  • Get your OACP Certificate

    The OACP Certificate is a mandatory pre-screening requirement for many police services in Ontario. It includes online testing, a fitness log, and medical documentation. Since some services require this certificate before you apply, it’s important to check their website first to confirm what’s needed.

  • Apply to a police service

    Once you have your OACP Certificate, you can apply directly to the police service of your choice. Each service has its own application process, so follow their specific instructions.

  • Receive your job offer

    After successfully completing all stages of the application process, you will receive an offer from the police service that hired you and officially begin your journey as a recruit.

  • Complete recruit training

    This is where you answer the call. At the Ontario Police College, you will train alongside other new recruits and build the skills you need to succeed. From physical fitness to communication and real-world scenarios, it’s an intense and rewarding step on your path to becoming an officer.

Find a police service near you