The South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially opened SAPS Trainee Programme 2025 Applications for 5 500 Student Police Trainee posts nationwide.
If you are passionate about making a difference in your community, now is your chance to start your career in law enforcement with structured training, a monthly stipend, and the opportunity to serve South Africa with pride.
SAPS Trainee Programme 2025 Overview
- Reference Number: TRAI2526
- Location: National Head Office, South Africa
- Appointment: SAPS Act, 1995 (Act No 68 of 1995)
- Advertisement Type: External
- Stipend: R4 500 per month
- Employment Type: Contract
What Is the SAPS Trainee Programme?
The SAPS Trainee Programme 2025 is designed to recruit and train dedicated individuals to become fully-fledged police officials. Successful applicants will undergo the Basic Police Development Learning Programme, and upon completion, will be appointed as constables within SAPS.
Your core duties will include:
- Preventing, combating, and investigating crime.
- Maintaining public order.
- Protecting residents and their property.
- Upholding and enforcing the law in South Africa.
Why Apply for the SAPS Trainee Programme 2025?
- Receive structured, professional police training.
- Earn a monthly stipend of R4,500 during training.
- Build a stable and meaningful career in policing.
- Serve and protect your community with pride.
Who Can Apply for the SAPS Trainee Programme 2025?
To be considered, applicants must:
- Complete the official SAPS application form and affirm all details under oath.
- Be a South African citizen (documentary proof required).
- Be between 18 and 35 years old on the closing date (proof required).
- Be physically, medically, and mentally fit (assessed by SAPS).
- Undergo a psychological integrity assessment.
- Hold a Grade 12 certificate (Matric) or equivalent qualification (proof required).
- Be proficient in English and at least one other official language.
- Be willing to take the oath of office and undergo training.
- Have no visible tattoos when wearing the SAPS uniform.
- Have no previous criminal convictions or pending cases.
- Not have been declared unfit to possess a firearm.
- Not have been dismissed for serious misconduct (dishonesty, violence, sexual harassment, or drugs).
- Consent to background checks, fingerprint verification, and buccal samples.
- Be prepared to serve anywhere in South Africa.
Additional Requirements
Preference will be given to applicants who:
- Have a valid light motor vehicle driver’s licence.
- Hold a relevant three-year tertiary qualification (NQF 6 or higher) in fields such as Criminal Law, Policing, Forensic Investigation, or related fields.
- Hold any other three-year tertiary qualification (NQF 6 or higher).
- Have a Grade 12 certificate with admission to Bachelor’s Degree, Diploma, or Higher Certificate studies.
What to Expect in the Selection Process
Applicants will undergo:
- Fitness assessments.
- Psychometric and integrity testing.
- Medical evaluations.
- Qualification, citizenship, and address verification.
- Social media and reference checks.
- Fingerprint verification against SAPS records.
Application Process
Applicants for the SAPS Trainee Programme 2025 must submit their applications via the SAPS e-Recruitment Portal.
You will need to:
- Visit the SAPS Careers Website and access the e-Recruitment Portal.
- Create a profile with your personal details and confirm your registration via email.
- Read and accept the Terms and Conditions.
- Ensure your personal details are accurate and updated.
- Search for SAPS vacancies, review job requirements, and prepare your supporting documents.
- Submit your application online with all required documentation.
For step-by-step guidance, see our full article on SAPS e-Recruitment Portal Now Live for Job Applications
Take Your First Step Towards a Career in Law Enforcement
If you have a passion for community safety and want to make a positive impact in South Africa, the SAPS Trainee Programme 2025 is your opportunity to build your career and serve with honour.
Please note:
- Applicants dismissed from any government department for misconduct will not be considered.
- Applicants with chronic illnesses or health conditions that may affect training may be excluded if the condition is not disclosed.
- If you do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Only one application per applicant is allowed.