The Karnataka State Police (KSP) has officially released the exam date and complete schedule for the Armed Police Constable (CAR/DAR) recruitment 2026. Aspirants preparing for this prestigious uniform service can now streamline their preparation timelines. A total of 1,600 vacancies have been announced across the state, divided between the Kalyan Karnataka and Residual zones. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing the important schedules, eligibility criteria, application process, and examination patterns.
Karnataka Police Recruitment 2026 Overview Details
To give applicants a quick snapshot of the recruitment drive, here are the essential highlights:
| Organisation Name | Karnataka State Police Department |
| Post Name | Armed Police Constable (CAR/DAR) |
| Total Vacancies | 1600 (179 in Kalyan Karnataka + 1421 in Residual Zone) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Educational Qualification | PUC (10+2) or equivalent. |
| Selection Process | Written Test → Physical Standard Test (PST) & Physical Endurance Test (PET) → Medical Examination |
| Salary Scale | ₹37,500 – ₹76,100 (Pay Level 12) |
Important Dates and Schedule
Candidates should mark their calendars with the vital milestones for this recruitment drive:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 19 June 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 22 June 2026 |
| Online Application Last Date | 22 July 2026 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 24 July 2026 |
| Kannada Language Test | 22 August 2026 |
| Written Examination Date | 06 September 2026 |
Official Notification Documents
Applicants can review the official notices through the following files:
| Notification | Download Link |
|---|---|
| Karnataka Police Recruitment 2026 For 179 Vacancies | Download PDF here |
| Karnataka Police Recruitment 2026 For 1421 Vacancies | Download PDF here |
Eligibility Criteria: Qualifications & Age Limits
Before taking part in further stages, ensure you meet the educational and age requirements set by the Karnataka State Police Department.
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Basic Qualification | PUC (10+2) or equivalent from a recognized board/institution. |
| Result Awaited | Not Eligible. |
| Equivalent Qualifications | CBSE/ISC Class 12, NIOS Senior Secondary, etc. |
| Kannada Language | Must have studied Kannada as a first or second language at SSLC level or have passed the mandatory Kannada test conducted by KEA. |
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General Merit (GM) | 18 Years | 33 Years |
| SC / ST / OBC (Category-1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B) | 18 Years | 35 Years |
| Forest Area Tribal (Budakattu) | 18 Years | 38 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen (General) | 18 Years | 38 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen (Reserved Category) | 18 Years | 40 Years |
Written Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
The written examination evaluates candidates through objective multiple-choice questions. Review the exam structure carefully:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Duration | 90 Minutes |
| Question Type | Objective/MCQ |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 marks per wrong answer |
| Part A | General Knowledge |
| Part B | Mental Ability |
| Qualifying Marks (SC/ST/Category-1) | 30% |
| Qualifying Marks (Other Categories) | 35% |
You can also check detailed curriculum breakdowns via resources like the Karnataka Police Constable Syllabus.
Steps to Apply Online for Karnataka Police Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official Karnataka Police recruitment portal (Karnataka Police Recruitment 2026- Inactive).
- Click on the Karnataka Police Recruitment 2026 Apply Online link.
- Register yourself using a valid mobile number and email ID.
- Log in with the generated credentials.
- Fill in the application form with the required personal, educational, and communication details.
- Upload the necessary documents, including a recent passport-size photograph and signature.
- Review all the details entered in the application form carefully.
- Pay the application fee through the available online payment modes, if applicable.
- Submit the application form and download the confirmation page.
- Take a printout of the submitted application form for future reference.
Karnataka Police Exam Preparation Tips
- Revise General Knowledge: Focus on Indian History, Geography, Constitution, General Science and important Current Affairs.
- Practise Mental Ability: Solve questions on arithmetic, logical reasoning and aptitude regularly.
- Attempt Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests within the 90-minute time limit to improve speed and accuracy.
- Analyse Previous Papers: Practise previous-year questions to understand the question pattern and frequently tested topics.
- Avoid Guesswork: Since 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer, attempt questions carefully.
- Revise Short Notes: Use the final days for quick revision of important facts, formulas and current affairs instead of starting completely new topics.
What to do next: Once you have aligned your preparation with the exam schedule, keep track of official updates regarding hall ticket releases. Ensure you download and print your admit card well ahead of the exam date, verify your exam center location, and plan your travel arrangements to report on time on 6 September 2026.