Are you passionate about serving your country, protecting communities, and building a meaningful career? The South African Police Service (SAPS) is now recruiting entry-level Police Trainees for the 2025/2026 intake.
This is a unique opportunity for young, energetic, and dedicated South Africans to join the police force and make a difference.
Position Details
• Post Title: Police Trainee
• Reference Number: TRAINEE2025/2026
• Act of Appointment: SAPS Act, 1995 (Act No. 68 of 1995)
• Stipend During Training: R4,500 per month (plus benefits)
• Salary After Training (Constable): R238,629 per annum
Who Should Apply?
The SAPS is looking for individuals who are:
• South African citizens
• Between the ages of 18 and 35
• Physically, medically, and mentally fit
• Committed to upholding the law and serving the public
If you hold a National Diploma or Degree in Law, Policing, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Forensic Investigation, or IT (NQF level 6 or higher), you may be considered for specialised roles in units such as Detectives, Forensics, Crime Intelligence, or the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI).
Training Programme Details
Successful applicants will undergo the 21-month Basic Police Development Learning Programme, which includes:
• Training at an accredited SAPS Academy
• Free accommodation, meals, and training gear during training
• Medical aid benefits during the training period
Upon successful completion, trainees will be permanently appointed as Constables.
Core Duties After Training
As a functional member of the SAPS, you will:
• Prevent and investigate crime
• Maintain public order
• Protect lives and property
• Uphold and enforce the law across South Africa
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, you must:
• Have a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent
• Be proficient in English and at least one other official language
• Not have any visible tattoos when wearing the SAPS uniform
• Have no criminal record or pending criminal cases
• Not have been previously dismissed for serious misconduct
• Be willing to serve anywhere in South Africa
• Undergo and pass:
• A physical and medical exam
• Psychological and integrity assessments
• Security clearance and background checks
Selection Process
Applicants will be assessed on:
• Fitness (BMI of 30 or less, specific waist measurements)
• Qualifications and criminal history
• Interviews and background checks
• Fingerprint and DNA samples (as per national regulations)
Preference will be given to applicants with:
• A valid driver’s license
• A tertiary qualification (especially in law, policing, criminology, forensic investigation)
• A Matric certificate that qualifies for Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree study
Important Conditions
• You may only submit one application per recruitment cycle
• Applicants already performing remunerative work (e.g. taxi, liquor, or security industries) must comply with SAPS employment policies
• Applicants with businesses doing business with the state must resign directorships or deregister from the Central Supplier Database before appointment
• Any false or incomplete information can result in disqualification or termination from the programme
How to Apply Online
Applications must be submitted via the SAPS online recruitment portal:
1. Visit: www.saps.gov.za
2. Click on the Careers link
3. Register your profile
4. Log in and select the relevant post: TRAINEE2025/2026
5. Complete all steps of the application and submit your documents
Closing Date: 18 July 2025
Final Notes
• If you are not contacted within 3 months after the closing date, your application was unsuccessful
• Submitting an application does not guarantee appointment
• The SAPS reserves the right not to make any appointments
Ready to protect and serve? Apply today and take the first step toward a career that matters.
