The National Police Service (NPS) has officially opened applications for its 2025 nationwide recruitment exercise, inviting qualified and passionate Kenyans to join the force as Police Constables. This announcement by Inspector General Douglas Kanja Kirocho marks one of the most significant national hiring exercises of the year, aimed at strengthening Kenya’s law enforcement capacity.
The recruitment will be conducted across all 47 counties on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The NPS emphasizes that the exercise is free, transparent, and merit-based, with no tolerance for corruption or favoritism.
If you’re planning to apply, this guide explains everything you need to know from eligibility criteria to the application process, required documents, and key tips to help you succeed.
1. Understanding the Recruitment Background
The 2025 recruitment comes after weeks of legal disputes between the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC). Initially, the NPSC had planned to recruit 10,000 new police officers between October 3 and October 9, 2025, but a court injunction on October 2, 2025, suspended the exercise.
The issue revolved around which institution holds the legal mandate to recruit police officers. On October 30, 2025, the High Court ruled in favor of the NPS, declaring the NPSC advertisement unconstitutional and reaffirming that recruitment authority lies solely with the National Police Service.
With the ruling now settled, the NPS has proceeded with full preparations for the legitimate recruitment exercise.
2. Who Is Eligible to Apply
To qualify for the Police Constable position, you must meet several minimum requirements as set by the NPS. Here’s a breakdown of the official criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a Kenyan citizen and possess a valid Kenya National Identity Card.
- Age: Applicants should be between 18 and 28 years old.
- Academic Qualification: A minimum KCSE mean grade of D+ (plus) or equivalent from a recognized institution.
- Criminal Record: You must have no criminal convictions or pending court cases.
- Physical and Mental Fitness: All candidates should be physically and mentally fit, ready to undergo demanding training.
- Height Requirements:
- Male applicants — 1.70 meters (5 feet 8 inches)
- Female applicants — 1.60 meters (5 feet 3 inches)
- Pregnancy Clause: Female candidates must not be pregnant at the time of recruitment or during the training period.
3. Preference for NYS Graduates
The NPS has given a nod to National Youth Service (NYS) graduates, encouraging them to apply. Applicants who have completed the NYS program with a minimum conduct rating of “Good” will receive preferential consideration during the selection process.
According to the Inspector General, NYS graduates have demonstrated discipline, endurance, and teamwork traits that align with the police service’s values of integrity, service, and patriotism.
4. Application Process — Step by Step
Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the 2025 NPS recruitment process:
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Before applying, confirm that you meet all the listed qualifications. Candidates who don’t meet the minimum requirements should not attempt to apply, as verification will be strict and disqualification immediate.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Gather the following documents in both original and photocopy form:
- National Identity Card (ID)
- KCSE Certificate (or equivalent academic proof)
- Birth Certificate
- Certificate of Good Conduct (if available)
- NYS Certificate (for graduates)
- Any other supporting credentials
Step 3: Identify Your Recruitment Centre
Recruitment will occur in all sub-counties at designated venues such as police stations, county commissioner’s offices, or training fields. The NPS will publish the full list of recruitment centers on their official website and verified social media pages.
Step 4: Report in Person
On November 17, 2025, report early before 8:00 a.m. to your designated center. Late arrivals will not be considered.
Note: There will be no online applications or third-party recruitment portals. All applications must be done physically.
Step 5: Screening and Verification
During the recruitment exercise, officers will:
- Verify your identity and documents
- Measure height and physical fitness
- Conduct brief interviews to assess communication and discipline
Only those who pass the verification stage will proceed to the next level.
Step 6: Shortlisting and Training
Successful candidates will be shortlisted and informed about their training schedule. Training will take place at National Police Training Colleges located across the country. Recruits will be equipped with law enforcement skills, community policing knowledge, and discipline-based education.
5. Important Warnings from NPS
The Inspector General has issued stern warnings against bribery, corruption, or favoritism during the recruitment process.
“No one should pay a single shilling to join the National Police Service. The exercise is free and open to all qualified Kenyans,” said Kanja.
The NPS encourages citizens to report any suspicious activity, bribery attempts, or fake recruitment agents through official NPS hotlines and social media platforms.
6. Why Join the National Police Service
Becoming a police officer is not just a job — it’s a calling to serve and protect. A career in the NPS offers:
- Stable employment and benefits
- Opportunities for career advancement
- Nationwide deployment and travel
- Training in leadership and public safety
- A chance to make a difference in your community
For thousands of Kenyans, this recruitment represents more than employment it’s a path toward national service, pride, and purpose.
7. Key Dates to Remember
- Recruitment Date: Monday, November 17, 2025
- Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Venue: Sub-county recruitment centers nationwide
- Documents: Carry all original and photocopies
The 2025 NPS recruitment offers a fair and transparent opportunity for qualified Kenyans to serve their country. To succeed, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, prepare your documents in advance, and avoid middlemen or brokers.
Patriotism, discipline, and integrity are the cornerstones of police service qualities that every aspiring officer must uphold.
