Overview
Germany has a federal police force (Bundespolizei) and a separate police force in each state. This page covers the Bundespolizei's selection procedure. State police forces run their own tests, which differ in content and rules.
Entry levels
The Bundespolizei recruits for the middle service (mittlerer Dienst), the higher service (gehobener Dienst) and the top police service (höherer Polizeivollzugsdienst). The selection procedure described below is for the first two. For the top service, the site only says that posts are advertised as needed and that candidates are invited to a two-day assessment centre at the Bundespolizei academy in Lübeck.
Exam pattern
The procedure takes up to four days.
| Stage | Middle service | Higher service |
|---|---|---|
| Written test | Dictation of about 180 to 250 words on professional German | Intelligence test and German test, with a short essay judged on structure, argument and general knowledge |
| Sport test | Coordination test, shuttle run, 12-minute endurance run | Same |
| Personal stage | Interview on motivation, strengths, politics, history and current affairs | Assessment centre: group discussion, short presentation and interview |
| Medical | Examination by police doctors | Same |
For the middle service the site says each of the four tests must be passed.
Important dates
As listed on the official site in 2026, you can apply all year. For a start in March, apply by 31 August of the previous year. For a start in September, apply by 31 January of the same year.
Preparation tips
Use the example dictations the Bundespolizei provides.
Train for the shuttle run and the 12-minute run.
Does the dictation matter?
In the middle service it is the written test, and you must pass it to stay in the procedure.
Is this the test for state police?
No. Each state police force sets its own procedure.