How to Prepare for the CIT Exam

The Critical Incidents Test (CIT) is the final examination in the PSRAS accreditation process. It tests your ability to handle complex scenarios that you might encounter during police station work.The test presents you with realistic scenarios requiring you to demonstrate knowledge of PACE, legal principles, ethical obligations, and practical decision-making skills.

Approximately 3 hours

Written scenarios with multiple questions

Competence-based assessment

The CIT is open-book (usually), but you won't have time to look everything up. You must know the following core areas inside out:

PACE Code C [2]: Mentally disordered or vulnerable persons must have an Appropriate Adult (AA). Juveniles (under 18) also need an AA.Exam Trick: The scenario will subtly mention the client "looks confused" or "seems slow". You MUST spot this and demand an AA immediately.

s.34 CJPO 1994 [3]: Understand when a court can draw an adverse inference from silence.Exam Trick: Disclosure is thin. Do you advise silence? Yes, but you must explain the risk of adverse inference to the client ("The Argent Criteria").

PACE Code D [2]: VIPER parades vs confrontation. When can police identify a suspect?Exam Trick: Police want to do a "group identification" (street ID). You should usually refuse and insist on a formal video parade (VIPER) which is fairer.

PACE Code D & s.61-63 [2]: When can police take non-intimate samples (mouth swab) vs intimate samples (blood/urine)?Exam Trick: Police ask for a blood sample for a theft. Usually refusal is allowed unless it's a specific offence (like drink driving). Know the difference!

The "Bible" for the exam. You should have a clean, tabbed copy ready for the exam.Access Official Codes

Known as "The Cape". Essential practitioner text. Expensive but worth every penny for the exam.

Understand exactly what the assessors are marking you on.View SRA Guidelines

Read each scenario carefully – twice if neededIdentify all the issues before starting to writeStructure your answers clearlyCite relevant PACE Code provisions where appropriateThink practically – what would you actually do?Manage your time – don't spend too long on any one questionIf unsure, state your reasoning and any assumptions

Focusing only on the obvious issue and missing secondary pointsNot knowing PACE time limits and review requirementsForgetting about vulnerable suspect protectionsFailing to consider professional conduct implicationsGiving theoretical answers without practical applicationFull PSRAS GuidePACE Codes Reference

[1]SRA Assessment GuidelinesOfficial assessment criteria for the Critical Incidents Test.[2]PACE Codes of Practice (GOV.UK)The primary legal source for all police station procedure questions.[3]Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 (s.34)Legislation governing right to silence and adverse inferences.Written by Robert Cashman, Duty Solicitor. Revised by Robert Cashman on 28th November 2025.