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Police Medical Requirements Guide

Understand the medical standards you need to meet to join the police: eyesight, BMI, blood pressure, hearing, mental health, and what conditions may or may not be disqualifying.

Unofficial independent resource — always verify with official sources (College of Policing, your force, PFEW).

Medical standards vary between forces. The information below is based on common national guidance. Always verify with your target force or the occupational health provider conducting your assessment. Standards for specialist roles (ARV, dog handler, mounted) may differ from general constable requirements.

Medical Assessment Areas

The police medical covers a broad range of health factors. Expand each area to see the standards and what to expect.

Conditions That May Disqualify

These conditions may present significant barriers for frontline roles. Each case is considered individually — this list is not exhaustive.

  • Insulin-dependent diabetes (Type 1) — generally disqualifying for frontline roles due to risk of hypoglycaemia
  • Active epilepsy or seizures within the last 2–5 years (varies by force and role)
  • Severe, uncontrolled psychiatric conditions requiring ongoing intensive support
  • Significant heart conditions (recent heart attack, severe arrhythmia) affecting physical capability
  • Conditions causing sudden loss of consciousness (syncope, certain cardiac arrhythmias)
  • Substance dependence (alcohol or drugs) — especially if ongoing or recently resolved
  • Visual impairment that cannot be corrected to the minimum standard

Conditions That Are Usually Acceptable

These conditions are often compatible with operational policing when well-controlled. Always disclose them honestly.

  • Well-controlled Type 2 diabetes managed by diet or tablets (not insulin)
  • Epilepsy with no seizures for 2+ years and not requiring current medication (force-dependent)
  • Controlled asthma that does not significantly limit physical activity
  • History of depression or anxiety that is resolved and not currently medicated
  • Past fractures, sprains, or surgeries with full recovery
  • High blood pressure controlled by medication without significant side effects
  • Skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis) not affecting grip or physical capability
  • Colour vision deficiency for non-specialist roles (check with target force)

The Medical Assessment Process

  1. 1

    Health Questionnaire

    Before your appointment, you will complete a detailed health questionnaire covering medical history, medication, surgeries, and mental health. Complete this honestly and thoroughly.

  2. 2

    GP Records Review

    You will be asked to consent to the force contacting your GP if clarification is needed on any declared conditions. In some cases, a GP letter or specialist report may be requested.

  3. 3

    Physical Measurements

    Height, weight, BMI, and blood pressure are measured. Vision and colour vision tests are conducted using a Snellen chart and Ishihara plates.

  4. 4

    Audiometry (Hearing Test)

    You will wear headphones and listen to tones at varying frequencies and volumes, pressing a button when you hear them. The test takes approximately 10–15 minutes.

  5. 5

    Lung Function (Spirometry)

    You breathe into a mouthpiece to measure your lung capacity and airflow. Relevant for detecting asthma or other respiratory conditions.

  6. 6

    Urinalysis

    A urine sample is tested for signs of diabetes, kidney problems, or infection.

  7. 7

    Interview with Medical Examiner

    A doctor or occupational health nurse reviews your questionnaire and test results, asks follow-up questions, and makes an overall fitness determination.