SAPS Embarks on Massive Recruitment Drive to Select Over 5,000 Police Trainees for 2026 Intake

Pretoria, Gauteng – The South African Police Service (SAPS) is in the process of selecting more than five thousand new police trainees from across the country. This major recruitment effort aims to boost the force’s numbers and bring in fresh talent to tackle rising crime rates, with assessments now happening in all nine provinces. Authorities have stated that preference will be given to applicants with tertiary qualifications and valid driver’s licences. Training for the successful candidates is expected to begin in 2026, although the exact date has not yet been announced.

Police spokesperson Amanda Van Wyk said assessments are currently underway in all nine provinces. She highlighted the high volume of applications received: “SAPS received over a million applications of which 334,765 are graduates who hold qualifications in policing, law, forensic investigation, and other fields of study.” This flood of interest shows the strong appeal of a career in policing, especially among young people facing high unemployment in South Africa.

The drive comes as part of SAPS’s plan to strengthen its ranks and improve service delivery in communities hit hard by crime. With over a million hopefuls vying for just 5,500 spots, the selection is tough, but it promises to bring in skilled individuals ready to serve and protect.

Eligibility Requirements for Aspiring Police Trainees

To qualify for the trainee programme, applicants must meet strict criteria set out in the SAPS Act of 1995 and recent employment regulations. They need to be South African citizens with proof like an ID document, aged between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application. A Grade 12 certificate or equivalent is a must, along with proficiency in English and at least one other official language.

Physical and mental fitness is key – candidates must pass medical and psychological checks to show they can handle the demands of the job. No visible tattoos when in uniform, no criminal record or pending cases, and a clean bill from background checks are non-negotiable. Applicants also agree to serve anywhere in the country, take an oath of office, and undergo training as decided by the National Commissioner.

Those with chronic health issues or impairments that could affect training might not make the cut, and full disclosure is required upfront. The process includes taking buccal samples for DNA and fingerprints to check against criminal databases, ensuring only trustworthy people join the force.

Preferences and Selection Process Underway

While all eligible applicants are considered, SAPS gives an edge to those with extra skills that can help right away. A valid driver’s licence for at least a light motor vehicle is a big plus, as it allows new officers to hit the ground running in patrols and operations. Tertiary qualifications at NQF level 6 or higher, such as degrees or diplomas in law, policing, criminology, forensic investigation, or IT, put candidates at the front of the line. Even those with Grade 12 results that qualify for higher studies get a nod.

The selection kicks off with psychometric and integrity tests, which are happening now across provinces like Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape. These assess mental sharpness, ethical standards, and suitability for police work. Next come fitness tests – applicants must have a body mass index of 30 or less and meet waist size limits to prove they are in shape.

Medical evaluations, interviews, and vetting follow, including checks on social media, references, and security clearance. Shortlisted folks might face personal chats to gauge their commitment. Those with higher quals could end up in specialised units like the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, detectives, forensics, or crime intelligence.

Applications closed on 18 July 2025, after an online drive that made it easier for young people to apply from home. SAPS got over one million submissions, with a third being graduates eager to use their skills in law enforcement. Only successful ones will hear back within three months; no news means no luck this time.

Training Programme and Benefits for Successful Candidates

Once picked, trainees enter a 21-month Basic Police Development Learning Programme at one of SAPS’s academies around the country. This includes an institution phase for basic training, where they learn core skills like crime prevention, public order maintenance, and law enforcement. Free gear, meals, and accommodation are provided, along with medical aid for the whole period.

During this phase, trainees get a monthly stipend of R4,500 to cover basics. After that, they move to probation in the field, earning around R186,483 per year as they gain real-world experience. On full completion, they become permanent constables with an annual salary of R238,629, plus benefits.
The training builds not just physical strength but also a strong sense of duty. Trainees must avoid side gigs in risky sectors like taxis or security, and declare any outside work. Those doing business with the state have to step back before starting.

This intake follows previous ones, like the 2024 drive that also drew huge numbers. It’s part of a bigger push to add 30,000 officers over time, helping fight everything from gender-based violence to organised crime.

Overwhelming Response Reflects Youth Unemployment Challenges

The massive turnout – over a million applications for 5,500 posts – highlights South Africa’s job crisis, where youth unemployment sits above 45%. Many graduates see policing as a stable path to serve their communities and build a career. The high number of qualified applicants, especially in fields like forensics and law, shows a pool of talent ready to step up.

SAPS leaders have praised the enthusiasm, saying it will help create a more skilled force. But with limited spots, many will miss out, underscoring the need for more opportunities in other sectors. The process is fair and transparent, with no room for bribes or shortcuts – integrity is checked from the start.

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