The South African Police Service (SAPS) is calling on young, passionate, and dedicated individuals to apply for the SAPS Traineeship Programme 2025. This highly sought-after opportunity is open to South African citizens from all backgrounds who are ready to commit to a career in law enforcement. Whether you’re interested in investigating crime, upholding justice, or serving your community, the SAPS is offering a structured path to becoming a professional police officer.
Post Title and Reference
- Post Title: Police Trainee
- Reference Number: TRAINEE2025/2026
- Act of Appointment: SAPS Act, 1995 (Act No. 68 of 1995)
Remuneration and Benefits
- Training Stipend: R4,500 per month (including applicable benefits)
- Post-Training Salary: R238,629 per annum (upon successful completion and appointment as a Constable)
- Additional Perks: Free meals, accommodation, and training gear during the Basic Police Development Learning Programme. Medical aid is also provided during the 21-month training period.
Training Duration and Locations
Successful applicants will undergo basic police training at SAPS Training Academies across South Africa. The duration of the training programme is 21 months, and trainees must be willing to serve anywhere in the Republic upon completion.
Core Duties of a Police Officer
As a functional police official, your responsibilities will include:
- Preventing, combating, and investigating crime
- Maintaining public order and safety
- Protecting citizens and their property
- Upholding and enforcing the law
Entry Requirements for SAPS Trainee Programme 2025
To be considered for the SAPS Traineeship, applicants must meet the following basic criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Possess a Grade 12 certificate or equivalent qualification
- Be proficient in English and at least one other official language
- Be physically and medically fit (subject to examination)
- Have no visible tattoos in uniform
- Have no criminal record or pending cases
- Be willing to undergo psychometric, integrity, and medical assessments
- Allow fingerprinting and DNA sampling as part of the vetting process
- Not have been dismissed from a previous job for dishonesty, violence, or related misconduct
- Be willing to serve anywhere in South Africa
Qualifications That Provide an Advantage
Preference will be given to candidates with:
- A valid driver’s license for a light motor vehicle
- A three-year National Diploma or Degree (NQF 6 or higher) in disciplines such as:
- Law
- Policing
- Criminology
- Law Enforcement
- Forensic Investigation
- Information Technology (IT)
Applicants with post-matric qualifications will be considered for specialized SAPS units such as:
- DPCI (Hawks)
- Crime Intelligence (CI)
- Detective and Forensic Services
Application and Selection Process
All candidates must apply online through the official SAPS website:
👉 https://www.saps.gov.za
Steps to Apply Online:
- Register your profile on the SAPS e-recruitment portal.
- Log in and update your personal information.
- Navigate to the vacancies section and select TRAINEE2025/2026.
- Complete the multi-step application process.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Fitness Requirements:
- Body Mass Index (BMI): Less than 30
- Waist Circumference: ≤ 102 cm (males) and ≤ 90 cm (females)
Shortlisted candidates will undergo physical assessments, interviews, security vetting, and qualification checks. Social media profiles, past employment, and criminal history will also be scrutinized.
Important Notices
- Closing Date: 18 July 2025
- Only one application per applicant is allowed.
- Previous involvement in criminal, drug-related, or violent activity will result in disqualification.
- No business interests with the State are permitted. Applicants must deregister or relinquish such roles.
- Additional income from sectors such as liquor or taxi industries is prohibited under SAPS regulations.
Final Thoughts
The SAPS Traineeship Programme 2025 is more than a job opportunity — it’s a calling to protect, serve, and lead. With competitive benefits, structured training, and a clear path to promotion, now is the time to take the first step towards becoming a trusted officer of the law.
Visit the SAPS Careers Page today and submit your application before 18 July 2025!