The RUC will become the new Police Service of Northern Ireland on 4 November, the British Government said tonight.
The powers of the 19-member Policing Board will take effect on the same day.
Northern Ireland Secretary Dr John Reid said: "This is a significant moment for all who have served in or have been associated with the RUC and for all of us who have benefited from their service.
"The Police Service of Northern Ireland will be a new service for a new era. It will be a service that grows out of the great contribution of the RUC."
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Brian Cowen TD welcomed this evening’s announcement. He said the move "brings us markedly closer to policing promised by the Good Friday Agreement."
Mr Cowen said it was now up to the Policing Board to take on the responsibility of "realising that promise."