SAPS is hiring for the 2025–2026 intake of entry-level police trainees. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has formally opened the application process for entry-level police trainees for 2025–2026. This program intends to strengthen law enforcement nationwide by enrolling 5500 recruits in the Basic Police Development Learning Program (BPDLP).
There are 5500 openings for entry-level trainees nationwide.
Training Length: 21 months of community-based and institutional instruction.
Trainees get a monthly stipend of around R4,500 throughout their training, with the possibility of advancing to a full constable salary of approximately R238,629 per year following successful completion.
Needs
The following requirements must be fulfilled by interested candidates in order to be considered:
Requirements
To stand a chance, interested candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship & Age: South African citizen or permanent resident, aged between 18 and 35.
- Education: Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification required.
- Language: Proficiency in English and at least one other official language.
- Fitness & Health: Physically and mentally fit, passing medical, psychological, and fitness assessments, including BMI limits and waist measurements.
- Character & Conduct: No criminal record, no pending cases, and a clean background regarding sexual offenses or child protection registers. Integrity and vetting screenings are mandatory.
- Tattoos: No tattoos visible when in uniform.
- Driver’s License: A Code B driving license is advantageous but not compulsory.
Selection Process
Note that preference will be given to applicants with a valid driver’s license for at least a light motor vehicle, including the following qualifications:
- candidates who have completed a relevant three-year tertiary program (NQF 6 or above), such as forensic investigation, policing, criminal law, etc.
- Applicants in possession of another three (3) years of tertiary qualification (NQF 6 or higher)
- Candidates who have completed Grade 12 and meet the prerequisites for admission to a bachelor’s program
- Applicants in possession of a Grade 12 school certificate with the minimum requirements for admission to a diploma; and
- Applicants in possession of a Grade 12 school certificate with the minimum requirements for admission to Higher Certificate study.
Period of Training
Successful candidates will undergo training as determined by the National Commissioner at any SAPS Training Academy in South Africa, at a time and place to be specified.
During the Basic Training Phase, the SAPS shall provide free training gear, meals, and accommodation to the police trainee.
Trainees will receive medical aid benefits for the duration of the 21-month Basic Police Development Learning Program.
Upon successful completion of the basic training, the trainees will be considered for permanent appointment as members of the SAPS at the rank of constable.
Successful candidates will serve as functional police officials. As such, they will be deployed to carry out the following functions:
- Prevent, combat, and investigate crime.
- Maintain public order,
- Protect and secure the inhabitants of the Republic and their property.
- Uphold and enforce the law.
2025/2026 The new Z83 application form is available now.
How to Apply
The step-by-step guide to applying to utilize the SAPS electronic recruitment system is as follows:
- Register your account on the SAPS Recruitment site here.
- The Profile User page is where you enter your profile information.
- Log in to your account.
- On the home page, browse to the SAPS vacancy page link.
- Locate and select the job you want to apply for (i.e., TRAINEE2025/2026).
- Complete the multi-step application process to enter your details and submit your application.
Download The SAPS Recruitment Entry Level Police Trainee Intake for 2025/2026 Advert Here