The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened applications for 5,500 student trainee posts, giving South Africans a chance to build a career in policing and help build safer communities.
Applications for the 2026/2027 intake close on 13 November 2026.
The recruitment drive welcomes candidates who are committed to public service and ready for the demands of police work. Before applying, recruits should make sure they meet the requirements outlined in the official advertisement.
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens with a Grade 12 certificate or equivalent qualification.
- Be proficient in English and at least one other official language.
- Have no previous criminal convictions or pending criminal cases.
- Be physically, medically, and mentally fit for appointment.
- Be willing to undergo training and serve anywhere in South Africa.
- Meeting these requirements does not guarantee appointment. Candidates will undergo fitness, psychometric and integrity testing, a medical evaluation and an interview. Background checks and qualification verification form part of the selection process.
What does the opportunity offer?
Successful trainees will receive:
- A monthly stipend of R5,000, with applicable benefits.
- Free training gear, meals and accommodation during basic training.
- An opportunity to be considered for permanent appointment as a constable after successfully completing basic training.
- The advertised annual remuneration at constable rank is R248,175. Applicants with relevant tertiary qualifications may also be considered for specialized environments, including the Hawks, detective and forensic services, and crime intelligence.
How to apply
- Register on the SAPS recruitment portal.
- Complete your profile and select the Police Trainee vacancy, reference TRA26/27.
- Follow the application steps and submit before 13 November 2026.
- Only one application is permitted per applicant.
- SAPS recruitment is free, and candidates should never pay anyone promising employment or preferential treatment.
Read the full job advertisement here [https://erecruitment.saps.gov.za/View-Full-Vacancy/?id=03cf6c23-76cc-f111-a05c-e4fb1ef9a8d2] before submitting, and ensure the information provided is accurate.