r/AskLE•
Wyattgub

18M — How competitive am I for the RCMP right now, or should I wait a few years before applying?

Hey everyone,

I'm 18 and just graduated high school a few days ago. I've been interested in policing for several years and I'm trying to figure out whether it's worth applying to the RCMP as soon as I'm eligible, or if I'd be a stronger candidate if I waited a few years.

A bit about me:

  • 18 years old
  • Recently graduated high school
  • Currently a Combat Engineer in the Canadian Army Reserve
  • Have my learner's licence (got it at 16) and expect to get my full licence in about two weeks
  • Going to the University of Alberta this Fall for Crimonology

Relevant experience:

  • Completed a week-long policing program with Edmonton Police Service that covered basic policing concepts, foot drill, and related activities
  • Volunteer occasionally at a food bank, church, and homeless shelter
  • Work weekends on my family's farm and have been helping there since I was around 8 years old
  • Previously worked at Dairy Queen and with a landscaping crew
  • Do various odd jobs for neighbours and people in the farming community

Other information:

  • Active in wrestling, football, rugby, and boxing
  • Very physically fit
  • No issues with maintaining discipline, teamwork, or working in demanding environments

My main question is:

Would I be reasonably competitive if I applied shortly after getting my full driver's license, or would it be smarter to wait until I've completed some university, gained more military experience, and built a stronger driving record?

I'd especially appreciate input from current or former RCMP members, recruiters, or anyone who went through the application process at a young age.

Thanks in advance.

Posted Jun 12, 2026, 11:48 PM UTC

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