How to Join IPS (Indian Police Service)

(Indian Police Service

How to Join IPS (Indian Police Service): 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

(Indian Police Service

Introduction

The Indian Police Service (IPS) is one of India’s most prestigious and powerful services. It plays a crucial role in maintaining internal security, law enforcement, and public order. If you aim to lead police forces, head central intelligence agencies, or become a top-ranking law enforcement officer, here’s your complete guide on how to join IPS in 2025 through the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE).


What is the Role of an IPS Officer?

IPS officers manage:

  • Law and order in districts

  • Crime prevention and detection

  • Leadership of police forces

  • Management of intelligence and national security

  • Command positions in agencies like CBI, IB, NIA, BSF, CRPF, etc.


Why Become an IPS Officer?

  • Powerful and prestigious position

  • Nationwide influence and leadership role

  • Opportunity to fight crime and corruption

  • Fast promotions and cross-departmental assignments

  • Excellent perks and pensions


Who Conducts the IPS Exam?

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Services Examination (CSE) annually for recruitment to IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, and other services.


Eligibility Criteria for IPS

Requirement Details
Nationality Indian citizen
Age Limit 21 to 32 years (General)
Age Relaxation OBC – 3 years, SC/ST – 5 years
Attempts Allowed General – 6, OBC – 9, SC/ST – Unlimited
Education Graduate from any recognized university

Educational and Physical Requirements

Educational Qualification

  • Bachelor’s degree in any stream

  • Final-year students can apply

Physical Standards (Minimum)

Parameter Male Female
Height 165 cm 150 cm
Chest (unexpanded) 84 cm N/A
Chest (expanded) 89 cm N/A
Vision 6/6 or 6/9 Correctable

Note: SC/ST candidates have slight relaxations in height.


How to Join IPS – Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Apply for UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE)

Step 2: Clear the Preliminary Exam

  • Objective format

  • Paper I: General Studies

  • Paper II: CSAT (Qualifying)

  • Conducted in May/June

Step 3: Clear the Mains Examination

  • Descriptive papers (9 total)

  • GS I-IV, Essay, Optional Subject (2 papers), 2 qualifying papers (English and Language)

Step 4: Qualify in the Personality Test (Interview)

  • 275 marks

  • Held in Delhi by UPSC board

  • Tests presence of mind, ethics, and personality

Step 5: Meet IPS Physical and Medical Standards

  • After clearing the final list, medical and physical tests are conducted

  • Only those meeting IPS standards are allocated


Exam Pattern and Selection Process

Stage Details
Prelims 2 Papers, 200 marks each
Mains 9 Papers, 1750 marks total
Interview 275 marks
Total 2025 marks

Training at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA)

  • Location: Hyderabad

  • Duration: ~2 years

  • Modules include law, weapons, forensics, cybercrime, field training, ethics, and physical fitness

  • Final posting as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP)


Salary, Allowances, and Facilities of an IPS Officer

Item Details
Basic Salary ₹56,100/month (Level 10)
House Allowance Government bungalow
Vehicle & Driver Yes
Medical & Education Free for officer and family
Risk Allowance In high-risk areas

Promotion and Career Growth in IPS

  • ASP → SP → SSP → DIG → IG → ADG → DGP → DG (Central Agencies)

  • IPS officers often lead CBI, NIA, IB, NSG, etc.

  • International postings possible via UN Peacekeeping


Common Departments IPS Officers Can Join

  • State Police Departments

  • CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation)

  • IB (Intelligence Bureau)

  • NIA (National Investigation Agency)

  • BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP

  • UN Peacekeeping Forces


Tips to Crack the UPSC CSE for IPS

  1. Read NCERTs and daily newspapers

  2. Master your optional subject

  3. Practice answer writing regularly

  4. Improve essay and ethics skills

  5. Stay fit to clear medical and physical tests


Mistakes to Avoid During IPS Preparation

  • Ignoring physical fitness

  • Overemphasis on one subject

  • Not practicing mock interviews

  • Underestimating CSAT

  • Depending solely on coaching


FAQs About How to Join IPS

1. Can I join IPS without UPSC?

No, IPS officers are selected only through UPSC CSE.

2. What is the rank required for IPS?

Usually within Top 200 in general category (varies each year).

3. Is there a physical test before the interview?

No. Physical test happens after final selection.

4. Can women become IPS officers?

Yes, many women serve in high IPS ranks today.

5. Can I apply for IAS and IPS together?

Yes, you choose preferences while applying for UPSC.

6. What is the IPS training academy?

SVPNPA, Hyderabad.


Conclusion

Joining the Indian Police Service (IPS) is not just about wearing a uniform—it’s about leading from the front, upholding justice, and protecting citizens. With rigorous preparation, physical fitness, and strong determination, you can proudly earn the badge of an IPS officer. Start your journey today—the nation awaits your service.