Application Process
Frequently asked Questions in relation to the application process for the Defence Forces
Application forms to enlist in the Defence Forces are only found on this web site and are ONLY available when the various recruitment competitions are open. The Defence Forces does not accept applications when competitions are no longer active.
View a list the Defence Forces Current Competitions >>
This varies from applicant to applicant and competition to competition, due to applicant availability and scheduling of medical examination, fitness test and interviews. Concurrently, there are agencies external to the Defence Forces (e.g. Government Departments, An Garda Siochána, etc.) from whom the Defence Forces must await returns.
This test is designed to test the candidate's current level of physical fitness, the candidate displays to the Board their capacity to undergo the rigours of military training.
It is composed of two aspects:
- Local Muscular Endurance
- Aerobic Endurance.
Local Muscular Endurance
- Males - 20 push-ups and 20 sit-ups.
- Females - 20 push-ups (Modified) and 20 sit-ups.
Max time allowed 1 minute. This is a Pass or Fail test.
Aerobic Endurance
Candidates will be required to run 2.4 kilometres within the Defence Forces time limits in the table below. These are the max times allowed.
A ‘Green’ colour reflects passing the Defence Forces Induction Fitness Test and results in the applicant proceeding to the next stage of the induction process). Upon successful completion of all other elements of the induction process they will be offered a position with the next intake of Recruits/Cadets as appropriate.
An ‘Amber’ colour reflects a reduced aerobic capacity. If the candidate is successful at all other stages of the induction process they may be offered a position with the next intake of Recruits/Cadets (as isapplicable). This offer is dependent on HR demands within the Defence Forces at the time of induction.
Please note that HR demands and requirements will fluctuate and may be different for Cadet and General Service (Recruit) induction.
1. Online psychometric test.
2. Fitness test