SAPS wants YOU: Applications open for 5 500 trainees

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened applications for 5 500 entry-level police trainee positions for the 2026/2027 financial year.

This is an opportunity for the youth of South Africa to pursue a career in law enforcement.

SAPS opened the recruitment on Wednesday, 21 October and applications officially close on 13 November.

#sapsHQ [YOUR FUTURE. YOUR COUNTRY. YOUR CALL: SAPS OPENS ONLINE APPLICATIONS FOR 5 500 POLICE TRAINEES]

The nationwide online recruitment drive opens today, 21 October 2026, and closes on 13 November 2026.

Eligible applicants who have no criminal records or pending criminal… pic.twitter.com/wB3mKUXBI2

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService)

October 21, 2026

South Africans between the ages of 18-35 are encouraged to apply, with a particular emphasis on those who are fit, disciplined and committed to serving their communities.

Colonel Amanda van Wyk, the National SAPS spokesperson, said the recruitment drive aims to attract young people that are passionate about making a difference and contributing to a safer South Africa.

#sapsHQ [WATCH: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO SAPS ONLINE APPLICATIONS FOR 5 500 POLICE TRAINEES]

The nationwide online recruitment drive opens today, 21 October 2026, and closes on 13 November 2026.

Watch the video for a step-by-step guide on how to apply online and take the first… pic.twitter.com/gsyuRIac8x

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService)

October 21, 2026

HOW TO APPLY

If you’re interested in applying, you can do so on the official SAPS recruitment portal here.

Applicants are required to create a profile and verify their account. Once the account has been verified, the applicant needs to follow the step-by-step application process to apply for the positions.

Applicants must not have a previous criminal record or a pending criminal case.

Graduates are encouraged to apply.

“Graduates in Law, Policing, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Forensic Investigation and Information Technology may be considered for placement within the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks; Detective and Forensic Services; and Crime Intelligence,” said Van Wyk.

“The targeted recruitment process will also seek to identify suitably qualified young people from underrepresented racial groups who meet the prescribed requirements.”

SAPS warns against recruitment scams

SAPS also emphasised applications are completely free and warned candidates against individuals demanding money in exchange for employment or promising to influence the recruitment process.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply early and use only official SAPS recruitment channels.

During the academy institution phase, all trainees receive a monthly stipend of R5 000.

Upon completing basic training and advancing to the probation phase as permanent constables, officers receive a starting salary of** R248 175 per annum** alongside standard public service benefits.

During the previous recruitment drive closing in July 2025, SAPS received 1 021 563 applications for 5 500 roles, including 334 765 tertiary graduates, highlighting severe youth unemployment in South Africa.