Apply for SAPS Police Traineeship 2026. 5,500 posts open. Requirements, R5,000 stipend, R248k salary and how to apply before 13 November.
Are you looking to join the South African Police Service in 2026? The SAPS has officially opened its 2026/2027 Police Trainee intake for 5,500 entry-level posts across South Africa. This is one of the biggest police recruitment drives of the year and a real chance for young South Africans aged 18 to 35 to start a career in policing.
This guide explains everything you need to know in simple language — who can apply, how much you will earn during training, what happens after training, and step-by-step how to apply online without paying anyone.
Disclaimer: SAJobNet is an independent information website. We are not affiliated with SAPS. This guide is based on the official SAPS advert TRA26/27 published on 21 October 2026. Always verify details on http://saps.gov.za. Also see: SAPS Application Form Guide
SAPS Police Traineeship 2026 at a Glance
- Employer: South African Police Service (SAPS)
- Post: Police Trainee (Student) – Ref TRA26/27
- Number of posts: 5,500 nationwide
- Age: 18 to under 35 years on closing date
- Minimum qualification: Grade 12 / Matric or equivalent
- Training stipend: R5,000 per month + meals, accommodation, uniform and medical support
- After training salary: R248,175 per year as Constable (once appointed)
- Application method: Online only via SAPS eRecruitment portal
- Opening date: 21 October 2026
- Closing date: 13 November 2026
- Application fee: Free — SAPS jobs are never for sale
Who Can Apply SAPS Police Traineeship 2026?
To be considered for the SAPS Police Trainee programme, you must meet all generic requirements under the SAPS Act, 1995:
1. Citizenship and Age
You must be a South African citizen with valid proof (ID book or card). You must be at least 18 years old and not older than 35 on 13 November 2026.
2. Education
You need Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or an equivalent qualification. You do not need a degree to apply. However, if you have a 3-year National Diploma or Degree at NQF Level 6 or higher in fields like Law, Policing, Criminology, Forensic Investigation, Information Technology, Computer Science, or Accounting Science, you will get preference and you may be placed in specialized units after training. Your training will also be shorter — 6 months instead of 9 months.
3. Language
You must be able to speak, read and write English plus at least one other official South African language.
4. Criminal Record
You must have no criminal convictions and no pending criminal cases. You will also be checked against the National Register for Sex Offenders and Child Protection Register.
5. Fitness
You must be physically, medically and mentally fit. The official advert mentions:
- BMI of 30 or below
- Waist circumference 102cm or less for men, 90cm or less for women
You will undergo physical fitness tests, medical examination, psychometric and integrity testing.
6. Other
- Must be willing to undergo training at a SAPS academy as determined by National Commissioner
- Must be willing to serve anywhere in South Africa
- Must not have visible tattoos that conflict with policing objectives when wearing uniform
Preference is given to applicants who have a valid light motor vehicle driver’s licence (Code B).
How Much Does SAPS Pay During and After Training?
Many people ask about salary. Here is the breakdown:
During Academy Training:
You are not yet a permanent employee. You are a trainee on contract. You receive:
- R5,000 monthly stipend
- Free accommodation at the academy
- Free meals
- Free training uniform and gear
- Medical support
Duration: 9 months for Matric holders, 6 months for graduates with NQF 6+.
Before academy, there is also a 1-month induction at a police station.
After Training:
If you successfully complete Basic Police Development Learning Programme, you will go through a 12-month probation phase as a Constable. The starting salary notch is R248,175 per annum plus standard public service benefits like pension, medical aid, and housing allowance.
Note: Completing training does not automatically guarantee appointment. You must pass all assessments.
Selection Process – What to Expect
If your online application is shortlisted, SAPS will invite you for:
- Document verification
- Physical fitness assessment (running, push-ups, etc)
- Psychometric tests
- Integrity and background screening
- Medical examination
- Interview
Only candidates who pass all stages are invited to academy.
How to Apply for SAPS Police Traineeship 2026 – Step by Step
Applications are ONLINE ONLY. No hand delivery, no email. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to official portal
Visit http://www.saps.gov.za and click on Careers > eRecruitment portal. Direct link: http://erecruitment.saps.gov.za
Step 2: Register
Click Register and create an account using your email and ID number. You will receive a verification code by email.
Step 3: Complete your profile
Log in and fill in your personal details, qualifications, languages, contact details and upload documents. Documents must be under 3MB each. You do NOT need to certify them for this intake.
Documents to prepare:
- ID document
- Matric certificate
- Tertiary qualification (if you have)
- Driver’s licence (if you have)
Step 4: Find the vacancy
Search for Reference TRA26/27 – Police Trainee 2026/2027. Click Apply.
Step 5: Submit – Only Once
You can apply only ONCE per person. The system blocks duplicate applications. Double-check everything before clicking Submit. You must apply before 13 November 2026 at 23:59.
Step 6: Keep proof
After submission, save your reference number. SAPS will contact shortlisted candidates via email/SMS.
Important Warning – Avoid Scams
SAPS has warned that application is 100% FREE. No police post is for sale. If someone asks you to pay money for a SAPS job, it is a scam. Report it to SAPS or Crime Stop 08600 10111. Apply only through the official eRecruitment portal.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Apply early — do not wait for closing date. Portal gets slow near deadline.
- Use clear, professional photo of documents
- Make sure your phone number and email are correct — SAPS will contact you there
- Prepare for fitness test now — start running and doing bodyweight exercises
- If you have a driver’s licence, upload it — it gives you preference
Conclusion
The SAPS Police Traineeship 2026/2027 is a genuine opportunity for 5,500 young South Africans to serve the country and build a stable career. If you meet the requirements — SA citizen, 18-35, Matric, clean record, fit — you should apply before 13 November 2026.
Good luck from SAJobNet Team.
Author: SAJobNet Team — Johannesburg. We help South Africans find verified government jobs. Contact: info@sajobnet.co.za
Sources: SAPS Official Media Statement 21 October 2026, SAPS eRecruitment portal advert TRA26/27, SAPS Act 1995.