An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s national police and security service, is recruiting Trainees for 2025. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a dynamic, progressive organization committed to “Keeping People Safe” and making a meaningful impact on communities across Ireland.
About the Role
As a Garda Trainee, you’ll embark on a comprehensive Foundation Training Programme leading to a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Applied Policing. This full-time position offers unparalleled career development, competitive remuneration, and the chance to serve your community in one of the most rewarding careers available.
The role involves 36 weeks of initial training at the Garda College, followed by practical on-station training phases. Upon successful completion and attestation, you’ll become a fully-fledged member of An Garda Síochána.
Key Responsibilities
- Enforce legislation and maintain law and order across communities
- Respond to emergency situations and provide first-line assistance to the public
- Conduct investigations and gather evidence in compliance with legal frameworks
- Build strong relationships with community members and stakeholders
- Maintain professional standards and adhere to the Code of Ethics
- Utilize modern IT systems and digital tools for policing operations
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across various policing units
- Engage in continuous professional development and skills enhancement
- Perform duties across shift patterns including nights, weekends, and public holidays
- Uphold the highest standards of integrity, character, and professionalism
Required Qualifications
Essential Requirements
Age & Nationality:
- Be aged between 18 and 49 years by the closing date (October 9, 2025)
- Be a national of an EU Member State, EEA State, UK, Switzerland, or meet specific residency/refugee/subsidiary protection requirements
Education:
- Irish Leaving Certificate with minimum D3/O6 grade in five subjects at Ordinary Level; OR
- NFQ Level 5 Major Award (120 Credits); OR
- Recognized equivalent qualification (Level 5 or higher) verified by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
- Proven proficiency in English and/or Irish language
Character & Suitability:
- Be of good character with no disqualifying criminal history
- Pass comprehensive vetting checks including criminal record, security, and intelligence assessments
- Relinquish all previous employment before entering Garda College
- Cannot be on career break from any employment upon entry
Physical & Medical Standards:
- Good general mental and physical health
- BMI between 18.5-25 (or meet additional validated indicators)
- Minimum unaided distance visual acuity of 6/18 in each eye (correctable to 6/9 or better)
- Good conversational hearing without hearing aids
- Pass Physical Competence Test (PCT) demonstrating aerobic fitness
- Successfully complete Substance Misuse (Controlled Drugs & Psychoactive Substances) Assessment
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in community service or public sector roles
- Demonstrated leadership or team management experience
- Additional language skills beyond English/Irish
- First Aid or emergency response training
- Experience working with diverse communities
What We Offer
Competitive Remuneration:
- Trainee starting salary during training (refer to Department of Health Consolidated Salary Scales for current rates)
- Progressive salary increases upon attestation and throughout career progression
- Overtime and shift allowances where applicable
Comprehensive Benefits:
- Extensive 106-week Foundation Training Programme leading to B.A. in Applied Policing
- Defined benefit pension scheme
- Generous annual leave entitlements
- Ongoing professional development and specialized training opportunities
- Career progression pathways including specialist units and promotional opportunities
Working Environment:
- Modern, digitally-enabled policing infrastructure
- Supportive team culture emphasizing collaboration
- Opportunity to make meaningful community impact
- Access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology
- Flexible assignment opportunities across Ireland after training
Additional Benefits:
- Uniform and equipment provided
- Comprehensive occupational health support
- Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
- Protected under employment legislation
- Support for reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities
Application Streams
Three application streams are available:
Stream A – General: Open to all candidates meeting eligibility criteria
Stream B – Irish Language Proficiency (Gaeilge): For candidates with Irish language proficiency (minimum Level B2 Europass framework). Successful candidates will work in Gaeltacht areas for a designated period.
Stream C – Serving Garda Reserve Members: For eligible Reserve Gardaí who have completed probation, served satisfactorily, and completed minimum 120 hours per year for two of the last four claim years.
Selection Process Overview
The recruitment process comprises multiple stages:
Stage 1 – Online Assessments (Oct/Nov 2025):
- Verbal reasoning test
- Numerical reasoning test
- Assessment questionnaire
- Written exercise
- All remotely proctored via webcam
Stage 2 – Interview & Role Play (November 2025):
- Competency-based interview conducted via Zoom
- Role-play exercises
Stage 3 – Appointments Process:
- Physical Competence Test (PCT)
- Substance Misuse Assessment (hair or urine sample)
- Medical examination by nominated Registered Medical Practitioner
- Comprehensive vetting including criminal record, security, intelligence, credit checks, and social media review
Stage 4 – Foundation Training:
- Phase I: 36 weeks at Garda College
- Attestation as member of An Garda Síochána
- Phase II: 36 weeks at designated Training Station
- Phase III: 34 weeks continued on-station training
- Probation: Additional 34 weeks
- Confirmation of appointment by Garda Commissioner
Important Conditions
Tattoos & Body Art: Tattoos/body art on face, above collar, or below cuff are not permitted. All other tattoos must be covered while on duty.
Outside Employment: Full-time assignment; outside business activities require written permission from Superintendent of Foundation Training.
DNA Testing: DNA samples will be taken from all trainees for elimination database purposes under Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence & DNA Database System) Act 2014.
Code of Ethics: All members must sign formal commitment to An Garda Síochána’s Code of Ethics.
Application Timeline
Application Opening: September 18, 2025 Application Closing: 3pm, Thursday, October 9, 2025 Stage 1 Assessments: October/November 2025 Stage 2 Interviews: November 2025 Anticipated Start Dates: Various intakes during 2026
Ready to Apply?
If you’re committed to public service, possess strong character, and want to make a real difference in Irish communities, this is your opportunity to join one of Europe’s most respected police services.
Applications must be submitted online through publicjobs.ie by 3pm on October 9, 2025. Only one application per person is permitted. Candidates must create a publicjobs user account and complete the application form in full.
Important: Ensure you meet ALL eligibility requirements before applying. Candidates who do not meet essential criteria will not be progressed through the selection process.
For detailed information on the selection process, eligibility requirements, and application procedures, download the comprehensive Information Booklet.
Contact: For queries regarding the selection process, email: gardatrainee2025@publicjobs.ie For queries regarding appointments, email: Trainee2025@garda.ie
An Garda Síochána and publicjobs are committed to equality of opportunity and encourage applications under all nine grounds of the Employment Equality Act. This recruitment process is conducted in compliance with the Commission for Public Service Appointments (CPSA) Code of Practice.
An Garda Síochána is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace.
