How long does the application process take?

The time required to complete all stages of the selection process will vary. It's also affected by the applicants availability and overall preparedness. An applicant who is successful at each stage may still take anywhere from 3 – 6 months to complete the required stages. The EPS Recruiting and Selection Unit works closely with all applicants to ensure an efficient process where possible.

If you're interested in a policing career with the EPS, we would recommend familiarizing yourself with the minimum requirements and our 8 stage application process to begin. Once you have an understanding of the basics, our office is here to assist you with any further questions.

What are the salary and career benefits?

In addition to offering an exciting and rewarding career, the EPS provides an excellent benefits package to police officers: competitive salary is provided from day one of training; opportunities for promotion & advancement; paid further education & training opportunities; paid vacation; comprehensive medical and dental plans; life insurance plans; professional development courses, tuition reimbursement (within established guidelines); career counselling and employee assistance programs.

What are the forms required to submit my application?

To complete your online application through APATS, you will be required to submit information across multiple forms and supporting documents. Please view the application process requirements for details.

What can I expect in the first year?

All new EPS Recruits hired as a sworn police officer begin their careers in patrol. The fundamental training new police officers receive in Patrol ensures a dynamic training opportunity to both assess and improve your skills to handle a wide variety of situations and tasks. After 2-3 years police officers with an exemplary record of achievement can then pursue other career placement opportunities in specialized units and roles within EPS. With dozens of units, there are multiple options to expand your career based on personal and professional career goals.

Do I need to start my application before writing the Provincial APCAT Exam?

Applicants are required to successfully complete the APCAT prior to taking the Alberta Physical Readiness Evaluation for Police Officers (A-PREP). The APCAT is a job-related written examination. You no longer need to have submitted an application prior to writing exams.

Is the process competitive? How do I make myself stand out?

The process can be competitive as we hire year round, but have a limited number of available spaces to hire new recruits. How many we hire each year depends on many factors but we typically have 2 – 3 Recruit Classes each year. EPS Recruiters will work closely with applicants to provide feedback, guidance and recommendations on their application. A good rule of thumb is ensuring you are prepared for the requirements of the application process, and become familiarized with the application requirements. A good indicator of applicant readiness is ensuring they are prepared for each stage in the process.

What if I've used drugs in the past? Can I still apply?

To apply, a candidate should have no criminal activity detected or undetected (within three years) of the application date. In addition no criminal convictions for which a pardon has not been granted. If you have specific questions, please feel free to contact our office.

What are your cannabis use guidelines?

The Edmonton Police Service Substance Use Policy has been amended to remove the prohibition on cannabis use by sworn members. All EPS officers are responsible for ensuring they are fit for duty, and understanding how any substance may impact their workplace safety.

What is the process for out of town applicants?

For applicants out of the City or Province, we work collaboratively to ensure all necessary testing, appointments and interviews can be completed in a timely manner. Depending on the scenario we may be able to complete all stages within a week to avoid repeat visits for the applicant. Please note, timelines vary based on the applicant.

What is the process for out of country applicants?

We are currently only accepting applications from those with Permanent Resident (PR) status. If you have been granted Permanent Resident (PR) status, you may submit an application to the EPS after arrival in Canada. You would then enter into the regular recruit selection process.

What is the process for Experienced Officers?

The EPS has an experienced officers program (EOP) that is designed to accelerate training to only 5 weeks (compared to 27 weeks a new EPS recruit receives). EOP hires are also provided with specific transfers, salary and pension options.

Are you offering ride alongs?

We have recently re-started the ride along program, however priority is being provided to applicants who are currently in the process.

I'm a serving member of the Canadian Armed Forces, can I apply?

The EPS recognizes that Canadian Forces military police officers often have experiences similar to those of civilian police. These experiences may qualify a candidate for special consideration within the EPS. It is important to note applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

What is the polygraph used for?

The purpose of the pre-employment polygraph examination is to prevent infiltration and/or corruption within the Edmonton Police Service. This means being 100% truthful throughout the entire application process (i.e. information supplied on the Personal Disclosure Form and responses given during the PDI). If an applicant has made a mistake, or a misstatement on their employment application, or when they have additional disclosure(s) or new information, they should inform their file manager or polygraph examiner prior to the in-test portion of the pre-employment polygraph examination. Most applicants become nervous, anxious or apprehensive when they are asked to submit to a pre-employment polygraph examination. This is normal and will NOT affect the results in any way.

How should I prepare for my polygraph?

Ensure you maintain a normal routine prior to attending; ie: taking prescriptions as prescribed, adequate rest, nutrition, and consuming normal quantities of coffee/tea. The procedure takes approximately 4-6 hours. Helpful resources include the American Polygraph Association and the Canadian Association of Police Polygraphists.

How to apply to Edmonton Police Service

Official Edmonton Police Service recruiting page

Last reviewed October 12, 2026. Requirements change without notice — the service's own page is the authority.

Who can apply

Eligibility requirements Edmonton Police Service publishes.

Age: At least 18 yearsYou must be 18 years of age or older at the time of application.
Citizenship: Canadian citizen or legal permanent residentCitizenship: You must be a Canadian citizen or legal permanent resident at the time of application. EPS is currently only accepting applications from out-of-country applicants who have been granted Permanent Resident (PR) status; they may apply after arrival in Canada and enter the regular recruit selection process.
Criminal record: No criminal conviction for which a pardon has not been grantedCriminal Conviction: You must not have a criminal conviction for which a pardon has not been granted. Proof of pardons must be uploaded with the application if applicable.
Clear period: At least 3 yearsTo apply, a candidate should have no criminal activity detected or undetected (within three years) of the application date. In addition no criminal convictions for which a pardon has not been granted.
Drug use: Cannabis use by sworn members is not prohibitedThe Edmonton Police Service Substance Use Policy has been amended to remove the prohibition on cannabis use by sworn members. All EPS officers are responsible for ensuring they are fit for duty, and understanding how any substance may impact their workplace safety.
Education: Grade 12 high school diploma (Alberta standard) or equivalentYou must hold a Grade 12 high school diploma (Alberta standard) or equivalent; for International Applicants, an IQAS certificate or WES certificate is required. High school diploma (or GED) and official transcripts must be uploaded with the application.
Post-secondary creditsPreferred: At least 2 yearsEPS recommends applicants have two years of recent and verifiable employment, and/or two years of post-secondary education. This is a recommendation, not a minimum requirement.
Language: Good written and verbal skills in EnglishYou must possess good written and verbal skills in English. Written communication testing will be included in the selection process.
Driver's licence: Valid Alberta Class 5 driver's licenceYou must possess a valid Alberta Class 5 driver's license. A graduated driver's license is not acceptable. A 3 year driver's abstract dated within 3 months of submitting the application must be uploaded.
Demerit points: No more than 5 demeritsA good driving record is essential (maximum of five demerits). You must be comfortable operating a vehicle in busy driving conditions.
First aid certification: Current certificate in standard first aidMust be a minimum 16-hour course with Provincial Occupational Health and Safety approval. A certificate must be issued within one year prior to the date of application. Re-qualification may be necessary for some components after one year.
CPR certification: Current “Level C” certificate in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED
Vision: Must meet EPS visual examination standardsYou must meet visual and hearing examination standards. A completed vision report (and a Supplemental Vision Report if applicable) must be scanned and uploaded with the application.
Hearing: Must meet EPS hearing examination standardsYou must meet visual and hearing examination standards. A completed hearing report must be scanned and uploaded with the application.
Medical: In excellent health with no impending conditionsPhysical and Health Standards: You must be in excellent health with no impending conditions. Applicants undergo a thorough medical examination by a physician contracted through the City of Edmonton at Stage 7 and are required to provide an up-to-date immunization record.
Credit and financial record: Credit history is disclosed and an enhanced credit check is conductedCredit history must be disclosed in the APATS online application, and a thorough background investigation including social media accounts, enhanced security and credit checks is undertaken on the applicant and the applicant's spouse/common-law partner/significant other.
Character and conduct: Demonstrated character consistent with EPS valuesThe fundamental requirement needed to successfully become an EPS officer is a desire to help people. During the application process, recruitment constables assess recruits based on their ability to demonstrate: a commitment to EPS' values of integrity, accountability, respect, innovation, courage and community; compassion and empathy toward others; ability to keep a positive attitude; leadership and concise decision-making; an ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle; good interpersonal & communication skills; a flexible and adaptable mindset; an ability to be a team player.

How to apply

The hiring steps Edmonton Police Service lists, in order.

1
Stage 1 – Written Testing (APCAT)
Alberta residents are required to write & pass the APCAT Exam before submitting their online application. The APCAT is a formal test and your professionalism will be assessed at this stage and every subsequent stage thereafter. Make sure to arrive on time and dress in appropriate business attire. Successful completion of the APCAT exam will advance you to Stage 2.
2
Stage 2 – Online Application (APATS)
The EPS accepts applications online through a provincial-wide application system – APATS. To begin the application process, applicants will need to create an APATS account and then apply to the Edmonton Police Service constable job posting. Completing the online application is a time-consuming process, and it is recommended you take your time to be accurate and thorough. Once submitted, your application will be pre-screened by the Recruiting and Selection Unit to ensure it is complete and that you meet the minimum requirements.
3
Stage 3 – Physical Readiness Evaluation (A-PREP)
The Alberta Physical Abilities Readiness Evaluation for Police Officers (A-PREP) is the physical assessment standard of recruit constable applicants. This assessment simulates the environments and situations police officers often encounter. A-PREP has three parts: a medical screening questionnaire; a pursuit/restraint circuit that mimics tasks that may be performed on the job; and an aerobic shuttle run that tests overall fitness.
4
Stage 4 – Behavioural Descriptive Interview (BDI)
The EPS interviews and tests applicants around six competencies a patrol constable must possess to function in their position. A series of behavioural questions, related to experiences or events in the applicant's past, are designed to evaluate the six competencies: adaptability/decisiveness; initiative/perseverance; interpersonal skills; organizational skills; stress management; valuing service and diversity. The BDI is conducted by retired members of the EPS who have worked in a variety of areas within the EPS and have specific interview training. BDI Interviews are booked through the recruiting office and applicants who successfully complete the BDI move on to Stage 5.
5
Stage 5 – Personal Disclosure Interview (PDI)
The personal disclosure interview (PDI) is a one-on-one interview conducted by the applicant's file manager (a sworn member of the EPS assigned to the Selection Unit). During this three-hour interview, the applicant's application and personal disclosure form will be reviewed and discussed. As with all stages of the process, the applicant's honesty is vital. Appointments for the PDI are booked through the applicant's file manager. Applicants who successfully complete the PDI move to Stage 6.
6
Stage 6 – Polygraph Interview
All applicants participate in a polygraph interview as part of the selection process. The purpose of the pre-employment polygraph examination is to prevent infiltration and/or corruption within the Edmonton Police Service. EPS Polygraph Examiners are trained at the Polygraph School at the Canadian Police College which is accredited by the American Polygraph Association. Appointments for the polygraph examination are scheduled through the recruiting office. Applicants who successfully complete this stage may move on to Stage 7.
7
Stage 7 – Psychological & Medical Examination
Candidates will undergo two multiple-choice computer-based psychological tests administered on-site: the Inwald Personality Inventory-2 (IPI-2) Assessment and the 16PF (Personality Factors) Questionnaire. The tests are followed by a clinical interview by a contracted psychologist. Applicants also undergo a thorough medical examination by a physician contracted through the City of Edmonton and are required to provide an up-to-date immunization record. Appointments are scheduled by the Recruiting and Selection Unit. Applicants who successfully complete this stage will move on to Stage 8.
8
Stage 8 – Background Investigation
This stage is the final step in the selection process. A thorough background investigation including social media accounts, enhanced security and credit checks are undertaken on the applicant and the applicant's spouse/common-law partner/significant other. If an applicant has any previous police training or has served as an employee in any law or by-law enforcement agency, they are required to submit all internal affairs checks (past, present, and pending complaints), annual performance reviews and training records. Upon successful completion of the selection phase, applicants are issued a score based on their progress through each stage of the testing. The applicant's file is then submitted to a review committee that determines whether the applicant is to be offered employment.

Fitness test

The fitness test Edmonton Police Service uses, and its pass mark.

Alberta Physical Abilities Readiness Evaluation for Police Officers (A-PREP)
Required
The Alberta Physical Abilities Readiness Evaluation for Police Officers (A-PREP) is the assessment standard to determine the physical suitability of an applicant. A-PREP has three parts: a medical screening questionnaire; a pursuit/restraint circuit that mimics tasks that may be performed on the job; and a multi-stage (Leger) shuttle run that assesses cardiorespiratory fitness. An A-PREP pass is valid for six months. If the first attempt is not successful, an applicant may take it a second time on the next available testing session date. Further failures after the second attempt will result in a two-month waiting period for each successive fail.

Salary

The pay range Edmonton Police Service publishes.

$84,995 – $167,455a year

From 1st Year Constable to Staff Sergeant, as of 2025.

Questions people ask about Edmonton Police Service

How long does the application process take?: The time required to complete all stages of the selection process will vary. It's also affected by the applicants availability and overall preparedness. An applicant who is successful at each stage may still take anywhere from 3 – 6 months to complete the required stages. The EPS Recruiting and Selection Unit works closely with all applicants to ensure an efficient process where possible.
Where do I begin?: If you're interested in a policing career with the EPS, we would recommend familiarizing yourself with the minimum requirements and our 8 stage application process to begin. Once you have an understanding of the basics, our office is here to assist you with any further questions.
What are the salary and career benefits?: In addition to offering an exciting and rewarding career, the EPS provides an excellent benefits package to police officers: competitive salary is provided from day one of training; opportunities for promotion & advancement; paid further education & training opportunities; paid vacation; comprehensive medical and dental plans; life insurance plans; professional development courses, tuition reimbursement (within established guidelines); career counselling and employee assistance programs.
What are the forms required to submit my application?: To complete your online application through APATS, you will be required to submit information across multiple forms and supporting documents. Please view the application process requirements for details.
What can I expect in the first year?: All new EPS Recruits hired as a sworn police officer begin their careers in patrol. The fundamental training new police officers receive in Patrol ensures a dynamic training opportunity to both assess and improve your skills to handle a wide variety of situations and tasks. After 2-3 years police officers with an exemplary record of achievement can then pursue other career placement opportunities in specialized units and roles within EPS. With dozens of units, there are multiple options to expand your career based on personal and professional career goals.
Do I need to start my application before writing the Provincial APCAT Exam?: Applicants are required to successfully complete the APCAT prior to taking the Alberta Physical Readiness Evaluation for Police Officers (A-PREP). The APCAT is a job-related written examination. You no longer need to have submitted an application prior to writing exams.
Is the process competitive? How do I make myself stand out?: The process can be competitive as we hire year round, but have a limited number of available spaces to hire new recruits. How many we hire each year depends on many factors but we typically have 2 – 3 Recruit Classes each year. EPS Recruiters will work closely with applicants to provide feedback, guidance and recommendations on their application. A good rule of thumb is ensuring you are prepared for the requirements of the application process, and become familiarized with the application requirements. A good indicator of applicant readiness is ensuring they are prepared for each stage in the process.
What if I've used drugs in the past? Can I still apply?: To apply, a candidate should have no criminal activity detected or undetected (within three years) of the application date. In addition no criminal convictions for which a pardon has not been granted. If you have specific questions, please feel free to contact our office.
What are your cannabis use guidelines?: The Edmonton Police Service Substance Use Policy has been amended to remove the prohibition on cannabis use by sworn members. All EPS officers are responsible for ensuring they are fit for duty, and understanding how any substance may impact their workplace safety.
What is the process for out of town applicants?: For applicants out of the City or Province, we work collaboratively to ensure all necessary testing, appointments and interviews can be completed in a timely manner. Depending on the scenario we may be able to complete all stages within a week to avoid repeat visits for the applicant. Please note, timelines vary based on the applicant.
What is the process for out of country applicants?: We are currently only accepting applications from those with Permanent Resident (PR) status. If you have been granted Permanent Resident (PR) status, you may submit an application to the EPS after arrival in Canada. You would then enter into the regular recruit selection process.
What is the process for Experienced Officers?: The EPS has an experienced officers program (EOP) that is designed to accelerate training to only 5 weeks (compared to 27 weeks a new EPS recruit receives). EOP hires are also provided with specific transfers, salary and pension options.
Are you offering ride alongs?: We have recently re-started the ride along program, however priority is being provided to applicants who are currently in the process.
I'm a serving member of the Canadian Armed Forces, can I apply?: The EPS recognizes that Canadian Forces military police officers often have experiences similar to those of civilian police. These experiences may qualify a candidate for special consideration within the EPS. It is important to note applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
What is the polygraph used for?: The purpose of the pre-employment polygraph examination is to prevent infiltration and/or corruption within the Edmonton Police Service. This means being 100% truthful throughout the entire application process (i.e. information supplied on the Personal Disclosure Form and responses given during the PDI). If an applicant has made a mistake, or a misstatement on their employment application, or when they have additional disclosure(s) or new information, they should inform their file manager or polygraph examiner prior to the in-test portion of the pre-employment polygraph examination. Most applicants become nervous, anxious or apprehensive when they are asked to submit to a pre-employment polygraph examination. This is normal and will NOT affect the results in any way.
How should I prepare for my polygraph?: Ensure you maintain a normal routine prior to attending; ie: taking prescriptions as prescribed, adequate rest, nutrition, and consuming normal quantities of coffee/tea. The procedure takes approximately 4-6 hours. Helpful resources include the American Polygraph Association and the Canadian Association of Police Polygraphists.

Police services nearby

All police services in Alberta

Who can apply

How to apply

Stage 1 – Written Testing (APCAT)

Stage 2 – Online Application (APATS)

Stage 3 – Physical Readiness Evaluation (A-PREP)

Stage 4 – Behavioural Descriptive Interview (BDI)

Stage 5 – Personal Disclosure Interview (PDI)

Stage 6 – Polygraph Interview

Stage 7 – Psychological & Medical Examination

Stage 8 – Background Investigation

Fitness test

Alberta Physical Abilities Readiness Evaluation for Police Officers (A-PREP)

Salary

Questions people ask about Edmonton Police Service

Police services nearby