Are you passionate about serving your community, maintaining law and order, and protecting the people of Cape Town? The City of Cape Town has officially opened applications for its 2026 Metro Police and Traffic Learnership Programme, a golden opportunity for unemployed youth to kickstart a rewarding career in public safety and law enforcement.
This learnership, offered under the Directorate of Corporate Services, combines formal training and hands-on experience in Road Traffic Law Enforcement and Law Enforcement Skills, equipping participants with the qualifications and discipline needed to make a real difference in their city.
About the City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership 2026
- Reference Number: SS 69/25 Ext
- Department: Human Resources
- Salary: R36.66 per hour
- Closing Date: 6 November 2025
- Start Date: 7 January 2026
- Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
The City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership is designed to empower local youth through structured education, practical experience, and disciplined training. Successful candidates will gain valuable qualifications that open doors to careers in the public safety and law enforcement sector.
Minimum Entry Requirements
To qualify for this competitive programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Grade 12 Certificate (certified copy required).
- Be a permanent resident within the City of Cape Town.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Be proficient in English and at least one other official language.
- Be medically and physically fit to undergo strenuous training.
- Possess a valid driver’s licence (Code B, manual transmission).
- Have no criminal record or pending cases.
- Have no visible tattoos when wearing the official uniform.
- Be unemployed as of 7 January 2026.
Shortlisted candidates must be ready to commit to full-time training and practical sessions during the programme period.
Training and Certification
Successful applicants will be enrolled in the Further Education and Training (FET) Certificate in Road Traffic Law Enforcement and the Law Enforcement Skills Programme SP4/2012.
This qualification blends classroom instruction and field-based training, preparing participants to operate effectively in law enforcement environments across Cape Town. The course aims to instil professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to serving the public.
Fitness and Assessment Criteria
Applicants will undergo a series of rigorous fitness and capability tests as part of the selection process. These include:
- 2.4 km run (12 minutes for males, 14 minutes for females)
- 30 push-ups and 30 sit-ups in 60 seconds
- Dead load carry (2 x 25kg over 100m)
- Tyre drag (20m)
- Shuttle runs (10 in 60 seconds)
- Wall clearing (2.1m)
- Motorcycle reach and comfort swim tests
In addition, candidates must pass written and physical assessments, drug and psychological testing, fingerprint verification, and a driving test. Failure to meet the required standard at any stage will result in disqualification.
Related: Prepare for the SAPS Physical Fitness Assessments with This 10-Day Plan
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online only through the City of Cape Town’s official careers portal:
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/careers
- Internal staff must apply via the SAP Portal.
- External candidates must create an e-Services Account before applying.
Required documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID (no affidavits accepted)
- Certified copy of your Matric Certificate (no statements of results)
Hard copy or emailed applications will not be accepted. Applicants who do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Conditions of the Learnership
Participants must note the following conditions of the Metro Police and Traffic Learnership Programme:
- No Guaranteed Employment:
Completion of the programme does not guarantee permanent employment with the City of Cape Town. - Valuable Training Opportunity:
The learnership provides formal training, practical experience, and recognised qualifications to improve employability in the public safety and law enforcement sectors. - Uniform and Conduct:
Trainees are required to wear the official uniform at all times and maintain a professional appearance and conduct. - Work Environment:
Participants must be prepared to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays, and perform duties in all weather conditions. - Rotation Across Locations:
Learners may be rotated and assigned to various work areas across Cape Town as part of the training experience. - Outside Employment:
Engaging in private employment or business activities during the learnership is strictly prohibited unless written permission is obtained from the City Manager. - Drug and Alcohol Policy:
Random drug and alcohol testing may be conducted during the course of the programme. - Health and Fitness:
Maintaining good physical fitness, mental stability, and overall health is mandatory throughout the learnership period.
Important Information
- Pregnant applicants are not permitted to participate in physical assessments.
- Canvassing for posts will result in automatic disqualification.
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted via SMS or phone call with testing details and must bring their own food and refreshments to the assessment venue.
The City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership Programme is more than a job opportunity; it is a pathway to meaningful community service and professional growth. Successful participants will gain nationally recognised qualifications and vital law enforcement experience, opening the door to future employment within the city or other government agencies.
Applications close on 6 November 2025, and training begins on 7 January 2026. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a disciplined and rewarding career, apply today.