Police Recruitment - B.C. Police Services

Police Services in British Columbia will require you to go through a challenging selection process. The recruitment process will include a written test called the Justice Institute of British Columbia or JIBC test. You can also expect the go through the following recruitment stages:

Stage 1: Preliminary

There is no application fee in British Columbia

Applicants must attend an information session held at the Justice Institute of British Columbia. It is here a candidate can obtain an application to the Police Department.

Stage 2: Written Testing

The JIBC exam is based on grade 12 level English grammar, spelling, compositions, comprehension and mathematics. It also includes a section on memory and short essay responses. A minimum mark of 65% is required to pass. Applicants will have 2 hours to complete the exam.

Stage 3 - Physical Test

Applicants must run 2.4 kilometres (1.5 miles) in under 12 minutes and them must complete the Police Officers Physical Abilities Test (POPAT) in under 4 minutes and 15 seconds. A hand strength test and a weight carry test are also conducted.

Stage 4 - Interview

This stage entails a review of the applicant's personal disclosure questionnaire and personal history, with a focus on integrity, problem-solving abilities, respect for diversity, community service orientation, self-initiative and acceptance of responsibility. This detailed interview will include questions on each applicant's understanding of policing and why he or she has chosen policing as a career.

Stage 5 - Polygraph Examination

A certified polygraph examiner approved by the Police Service will administer the pre-employment polygraph test. The examination is lengthy and those scheduled to test will be given specific instructions prior testing.

Stage 6 - Assessment Centre

This is an employment interview conducted by a Sergeant trained and certified in the use of a polygraph instrument.

Stage 7 - Sergeant's Interview

The recruiting sergeant will review each applicant's file and interview applicants to evaluate their suitability to policing.

Stage 8 - Medical Exam

An exam will be conducted by a medical doctor. A visual acuity test is also performed. The cost of the medical exam is paid by the applicant.

Stage 9 - Background Investigation

A recruiting unit investigator conducts interviews with references to determine if an applicant's personal history, traits and characteristics are suitable for a career in policing. People contacted for these interviews include present and past employers and colleagues, family members, long-time friends, neighbours and landlords.