SAPS starts recruitment of 10,000 trainees: See intake requirements and form

The application closing date is 31 August 2023 and successful applicants will start training in April 2024.

The South African Police Service has published the SAPS application form for its massive 2024/2025 police trainees intake.

Deputy Police Minister Cassel Mathale announced on Saturday (5 August) that SAPS is embarking on a recruitment drive to add 10,000 officers. He also announced that the age limit for new recruits is now 35 years.

2024/2025 SAPS application form for trainees

Prospective police trainees can download the 2024/2025 intake SAPS application form here. You can also get it on the SAPS careers website, where you need to click on the “Police Trainees” link to view it. Alternatively, visit any police station to obtain it free of charge. SAPS said it is no longer using the Z83 form.

To apply, simply fill out the application form in black ink and attach the following documents (uncertified):

• Identity document.
• Driver’s licence (if applicable).
• Senior Certificate/National Senior Certificate/National Certificate (Vocational).
• Post-school qualification with academic records (degree/diploma).
• Proof of residence.
• Testimonial letter (from school/church/traditional leaders).
• Service Certificates of previous employers (if applicable).

Requirements

According to the requirements contained in the SAPS recruitment advertisement, each applicant must:

• Have permanent residence in the Republic of South Africa and provide documentary proof.
• Have a grade 12 school certificate or equivalent qualification and provide documentary proof.
• A valid driving license for at least a light motor vehicle will be an advantage.
• Be proficient in at least English and one other official language.
• Be at least 18 and under 35 years of age.
• Have no previous criminal convictions and allow his or her fingerprints to be taken and background enquiries to be made.
• Not have any tattoo marks visible when wearing any SAPS uniform.
• Be prepared to take the oath of office.
• Submit himself or herself to a physical medical examination and be found to be physically and mentally fit for appointment.
• Undergo and pass a psychological assessment and be found to comply with the profile of a police official.
• Be prepared to successfully undergo training.
• Be prepared to serve anywhere in the Republic of South Africa.

The recruitment process will include physical, psychometric and integrity testing, medical evaluation, interview, and vetting. Applicants must hand deliver the form at their nearest police station during working hours and before the closing date/deadline, which is 31 August 2023.

Successful applicants will undergo training for 21 months in three phases as follows:

• Induction phase: One month at a designated police station. Stipend is R4,500.
• Basic training phase: Eight months at a designated SAPS academy. Stipend is R4,500 per month.
• Probation phase: Appointment as a SAPS member undergoing the Workplace Exposure Programme (12 months). Annual salary is R216,033.

“During the Basic Training Phase of the programme, the Service shall provide free training gear, meals and accommodation to the police trainee,” SAPS said.

“Trainees will also receive medical aid benefits for the duration of the 21-month Basic Training Learning Programme. Upon successful completion of the Basic Training Learning Programme, trainees will be considered for permanent appointment as members of the SAPS at the rank of Constable.”

Successful candidates will start their training in April 2024. “We are embarking on this process to ensure more boots on the ground in an effort to maximise our crime combatting efforts,” Deputy Minister Mathale said.

“We are inviting disciplined, upright and passionate candidates who are ready to serve and protect their communities. With more boots on the ground, we aim to enhance and improve our response to emerging crime trends,” National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola added.

Good luck to all applicants!