IPS Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Height, Qualification, Physical & Medical Requirements

 IPS Eligibility Criteria 2026 is a mandatory requirement for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Police Service (IPS). These criteria ensure that applicants meet the educational qualifications and physical fitness standards required for the role. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the IPS Eligibility Criteria 2026, including height, weight, and fitness requirements for both male and female candidates, helping aspirants prepare effectively for the selection process.

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IPS Eligibility Criteria 2026

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IPS Height Requirement (Male & Female)

The minimum height required for IPS is 165 cm for male candidates (160 cm for ST candidates) and 150 cm for female candidates (145 cm for ST candidates). These height standards ensure physical capability for field duties. Height is assessed along with weight, chest, vision, and overall medical fitness during the UPSC medical examination.

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IPS Physical Eligibility for Male Candidates

Male candidates also have specific physical criteria that they must meet to be eligible for the IPS. These standards ensure that they are capable of handling the physically demanding tasks required in police service in 2026.

IPS Eyesight Requirements for Male:

• Distant vision of 6/6 or 6/9 for a person with normal vision
• Distant vision of 6/9 or 6/12 for a person with a little poor vision
• Near vision J1 for normal vision and J2 for weaker vision

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IPS Physical Eligibility for Female Candidates

Female candidates aspiring to join the IPS must meet specific physical standards. These standards are slightly different from those for male candidates, taking into account the physiological differences. Female candidates must meet the following weight and Minimum height for IPS Females:

IPS Eyesight Requirements for Females:

• The distant vision of 6/6 or 6/9 for a person with normal vision
• Distant vision of 6/6 or 6/9 for a person with normal vision
• Distant vision of 6/9 or 6/12 for a person with a little poor vision
• Near vision J1 for normal vision and J2 for weaker vision

IPS Weight, Chest & Physical Measurements

Physical measurements are an important part of IPS eligibility. Male candidates must have a minimum chest girth of 84 cm (expandable by 5 cm), while female candidates must have 79 cm chest girth with similar expansion. Height, weight, and chest measurements must be proportionate, and candidates must also meet standards for vision, blood pressure, hearing, and general medical fitness.

IPS Medical Requirements (Vision, BP, Diabetes, Hearing)

The IPS physical test 2026 is a critical component of the selection process, evaluating candidates' physical fitness and endurance. In addition to meeting the physical requirements, candidates must also satisfy various medical standards. Below are the detailed medical requirements for IPS officers: Blood Pressure (High): As a general rule, if someone's systolic blood pressure is over 140 mmHg or their diastolic pressure is over 90 mmHg, they should be re-evaluated by the board before a final decision is made about their fitness.

• Diabetes Mellitus: Candidates must have normal fasting blood sugar levels (after 8-10 hours of overnight fasting) and normal HbA1C values. Those diagnosed with diabetes will be deemed temporarily unfit and reassessed after three months to check diabetes control and related complications, with this reassessment completed within six months of the initial evaluation. Candidates will only be declared 'Fit' if they are free from any diabetes complications.
•  Nasal: Candidates must not have any speech impediments, such as stuttering.
•  Ear: Candidates should have normal ear cavities and good hearing, with no impairment greater than 30 decibels in the 1000-4000 frequency range.
•  Vision: Candidates must pass a high-standard colorblind test, have stereoscopic vision, and have no inherent night blindness.
•  Pregnancy: Female candidates must not be pregnant at the time of the medical examination. These medical standards ensure that all candidates are physically capable of handling the demanding duties of an IPS officer.

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IPS Running Test

The IPS running test is a significant component of the physical test. Candidates are required to complete a certain distance within a stipulated time. This test evaluates their stamina and endurance, which are essential for the responsibilities of an IPS officer.

IPS Age Limit 2026 (Category-Wise Maximum Age)

Apart from the IPS Physical eligibility criterion, candidates must also meet certain age limits to be eligible for the IPS. The age limit for IPS candidates varies based on their category. The general age limit is between 21 - 32 years, with certain relaxations for candidates from reserved categories.

• Minimum Age limit – 21 Years
• Maximum Age limit – 32 Years

IPS Exam Age Limit for General, OBC, SC/ST

The IPS age limit is 21 to 32 years for General category candidates. OBC candidates receive a 3-year relaxation (maximum age 35), while SC/ST candidates receive a 5-year relaxation (maximum age 37). PwD candidates can apply up to 42 years, based on UPSC rules. These age limits ensure fair opportunity across all categories.

Age Relaxation

IPS Eligibility for Female (Height, Weight, Chest)

Female candidates must meet specific physical standards to qualify for the IPS. The minimum height for females is 150 cm (145 cm for ST candidates). Chest measurement should be 79 cm with 5 cm expansion. Candidates must also meet eyesight, medical fitness, and running test requirements to ensure they can perform policing duties effectively.

IPS Educational Qualification

• Candidates awaiting their final year results/ about to take up the last year exam can also attend the prelims exam. IF they are selected for the mains exam, they would be required to produce proof of passing the degree exam.
• A bachelor’s degree from a recognised university is the minimum educational qualification
• Any other qualification is equivalent to graduation as ascertained by the commission under special allowances.

How to Prepare for the IPS Physical Fitness Test 2026?

Here tips to get ready for the IPS Physical Fitness 2026:

1. Regular Running: Practice running daily to improve your stamina and endurance. Gradually increase the distance and try to achieve the time required for the IPS running test.
2. Strength Training: Focus on exercises that build muscle strength, particularly for chest expansion requirements. Include push-ups, pull-ups, and weight training in your routine.
3. Balanced Diet: Maintain a healthy, balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This will help you build muscle, lose excess fat, and stay energized for intense workouts.
4. Eye and Vision Care: Take steps to protect your eyesight. Avoid excessive screen time, and if needed, consult an eye specialist to correct minor vision issues before the medical test.
5. Regular Health Checkups: Monitor your blood pressure, blood sugar, and other medical parameters. Make sure to address any medical conditions early to avoid being declared unfit.
6. Flexibility and Agility: Include stretching exercises and activities like yoga to enhance flexibility, which can help during physical tasks and improve recovery time after workouts.
7. Adequate Rest and Recovery: Ensure you get enough sleep and rest to allow your body to recover, build strength, and prevent injuries.

IPS Running Test & Physical Fitness Test 2026

Once candidates meet all IPS physical and medical requirements, they begin their training for the Indian Police Service. The two-year training starts with a three-month foundation course at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. Following this, they proceed to the National Police Academy (NPA) in Hyderabad for eleven months of academic training, which includes both indoor and outdoor sessions. During their training, candidates will visit various institutes across India and spend six months in their assigned cadre.

After this field training, they return to the NPA for an additional month of academic training before officially becoming IPS officers.  Meeting the IPS Physical Eligibility Criterion is crucial for aspirants aiming to join the Indian Police Service. The criteria include specific requirements for height, weight, and physical fitness, along with educational qualifications and age limits.