The problem of psychological diagnostics of professional motivation of candidates for service in the internal affairs bodies and employees appointed to other positions is relevant and largely determines the effectiveness of professional activity.
 Of particular importance is the choice of a methodological approach to the implementation of psychological diagnostics of professional motivation of employees of internal affairs bodies. The system-situational approach combined with a reflexive approach is the most productive by the authors. The role of situational approach to motivation assessment is considered. The authors consider motivation as an integral state, which is determined by the presence of the actual needs of the individual and the corresponding situation.
 In the course of the theoretical analysis and empirical research, we have concluded about the significance and effectiveness of the system-situational approach, using which it becomes possible to effectively conduct psychodiagnostic procedures. Psychological features of professional motivation of candidates for service and employees appointed to other positions were revealed.