Do chest measurements apply to female candidates?

No. Under Government of India and State Police recruitment rules, chest measurement standards are strictly exempted for female candidates.

Is PET scored or purely qualifying in nature?

In central recruitments (SSC GD, CAPF SI, Railway RPF), PET is strictly qualifying (you must pass, but marks do not add to merit). In some state police constable exams (such as MP Police or Bihar Police), PET performance carries direct competitive marks.

What happens if a candidate gets injured during the race in PET?

Recruiting boards generally do not grant re-tests for sports injuries incurred on the field. However, candidates with pre-existing medical emergencies or pregnant female candidates can apply for postponement with valid medical board documentation.

How is running timed during PET?

Modern PETs utilize RFID electronic timing chips tied to the runner's ankle or chest bib. Sensors embedded in the start/finish mat record the exact digital lap and finish timings automatically.

What is the standard chest expansion requirement?

Male candidates are typically required to have a minimum unexpanded chest (e.g., 80 cm) and demonstrate at least 5 cm of expansion upon deep inhalation (e.g., 85 cm expanded).

Can flat foot or knock knees be rejected during PST or Medical?

PST checks only height, chest, and weight. Knock knees, flat foot, varicose veins, and squint eyes are evaluated during the Detailed Medical Examination (DME).

Do hill tribe candidates receive height concessions?

Yes. Candidates belonging to Gorkhas, Garhwalis, Kumaonis, Dogras, Marathas, and residents of North-Eastern states receive relaxed height benchmarks (e.g., 162.5 cm or 165 cm instead of 170 cm) upon submitting a Domicile / Hill Tribe certificate.

What Is PET and PST in Government Recruitment? Differences & Standards – YuvaResult.in

What Is PET and PST in Government Recruitment?

Detailed guide explaining the difference between Physical Standards Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET) in Police, Paramilitary (SSC GD, CAPF), Railway, and Defence recruitment.

By Yuva Result Career Research & Guidance Desk•Senior Government Career Strategist & Examination Analyst

Updated: 26 Sept 2026

YuvaResult Uniformed Services Guide • Physical Assessment Protocols

Aspirants targeting Police, Paramilitary, Defence, Forest Guard, and Excise posts frequently confuse PST with PET. Learn the fundamental differences between these physical evaluation stages.

1. PST vs PET: The Core Distinction

Physical Standards Test (PST)

Static Biometric Measurement: Evaluates your physical body structure against statutory minimums. Involves measurement of Height, Chest Expansion (male candidates only), and Proportionate Weight. No running or physical exercise is involved.

Physical Efficiency Test (PET)

Dynamic Athletic Performance: Evaluates your cardiovascular stamina, leg strength, and endurance through timed athletic events such as Distance Running (e.g. 5 km, 1.6 km, or 800m), Long Jump, High Jump, and Shot Put.

2. Typical Physical Standards in Premier Recruitments

Recruitment Post	Male Standards (General)	Female Standards (General)	Standard PET Event
SSC GD Constable	Height: 170 cm Chest: 80–85 cm	Height: 157 cm Chest: Not Applicable	Male: 5 km in 24 mins Female: 1.6 km in 8.5 mins
SSC CPO (Delhi Police / CAPF SI)	Height: 170 cm Chest: 80–85 cm	Height: 157 cm Chest: Not Applicable	100m sprint + 1.6 km run + Long Jump + High Jump + Shot Put
Railway RPF Sub-Inspector	Height: 165 cm Chest: 80–85 cm	Height: 157 cm Chest: Not Applicable	Male: 1600m in 6.5 mins Female: 800m in 4 mins

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No. Physical standards are statutory minimums. Electronic height sensors record exact digital measurements, and boards cannot grant individual discretion.