The Civil Guard is one of Spain's most emblematic forces. With more than 175 years of history, this institution has evolved since its creation in the 19th century to become a key pillar of national security and defense. In this article, we briefly explain its history, its current functions, and how you can prepare if you're thinking of joining its ranks.

Brief history of the Civil Guard

The Civil Guard was founded in 1844 by the Duke of Ahumada, during the reign of Isabel II, with the aim of establishing a rural security force to protect the population from banditry and guarantee public order throughout the country.

During the Civil War and the Franco regime, the Civil Guard played a complex and controversial role, but after the Transition, it consolidated itself as a modern, professional, and democratic force.

Today, it forms part of the State Security Forces and Corps, along with the National Police, and has both civil and military powers.

Main functions

The Civil Guard performs a wide range of functions, including:

• Citizen security in rural environments

• Traffic control on interurban roads

• Environmental Protection (SEPRONA)

• Criminal investigation (Judicial Police)

• Anti-terrorism (especially through the GAR and other units)

• Maritime Safety (Maritime Service)

• Border control and immigration

• Participation in international missions (UN, NATO, EU)

Special units

While the bulk of the force is dedicated to citizen security, there are elite units that are highly valued and demanding:

• GAR (Rapid Action Group) : specialized intervention unit for terrorism and high-risk situations.

• GEAS (Special Groups for Underwater Activities)

• UEI (Special Intervention Unit)

• GREIM (Mountain Rescue and Intervention Group)

How to enter: competitive examinations and preparation

To join the Civil Guard, you must pass a competitive examination. Here's an overview:

Basic requirements:

• Be between 18 and 40 years old

• ESO or equivalent as a minimum (although a Bachelor's degree or higher is valued)

• Have no criminal record

• Good physical shape

Phases of the process:

1. Knowledge test (official syllabus)

2. Psychotechnical tests

3. Physical tests (endurance, speed, push-ups, swimming)

4. Personal interview

5. Medical examination

Recommendations:

• Study with updated and specific syllabuses for the Civil Guard.

• Read complementary books on military history, ethics, and structure .

• Work on your physical fitness with workouts focused on specific events.

• Don't neglect the interview: attitude is key.

In our online store, we have a dedicated section of books for Civil Guard candidates, including manuals, tests, psychometric tests, and physical training.

Recommended reading

If you want to learn more about the body before applying (or are simply passionate about its history), we recommend:

• History of the Civil Guard – A complete overview since its founding.

• Memoirs of a GAR Operation – First-person testimony from an elite unit.

• Operational intervention manual for rural environments – Ideal for understanding actual day-to-day operations.