The South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially launched its much-anticipated e-Recruitment drive for 5,500 aspiring police officers, marking a historic milestone as the organisation embraces a fully digital recruitment platform for the first time ever.

What Is the SAPS E-Recruitment Drive?

Starting 30 June 2025, the SAPS recruitment campaign invites young men and women between the ages of 18 and 35 to apply online for entry-level Police Trainee positions for the 2025/2026 financial year. Applications will close on 18 July 2025.

For the first time, all applications will be submitted exclusively through the electronic recruitment system on the official SAPS website. This modern approach aims to:

• Reduce paperwork

• Prevent lost applications

• Curb corruption and nepotism

• Improve transparency and fairness

• Speed up the recruitment process

• Lower administrative costs

To apply, visit the official SAPS careers page at www.saps.gov.za/careers and select the e-Recruitment portal from the dropdown menu.

SAPS Launches Its First-Ever E-Recruitment Drive for 5,500 Police Trainees

Who Should Apply?

The drive targets youth from diverse backgrounds who are:

• South African citizens aged 18 to 35

• Without criminal records or pending criminal cases

• Physically and mentally fit

• Disciplined and eager to serve their communities

Additionally, SAPS will give special consideration to applicants with qualifications or skills in:

• Law

• Policing

• Criminology

• Law Enforcement

• Forensic Investigation

• Information Technology

These candidates may be placed in specialised units such as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Detective and Forensic Services, and Crime Intelligence (CI).

What to Expect from the Selection Process?

Applicants will undergo a rigorous screening process, including:

• Psychometric testing

• Integrity assessments

• Physical fitness evaluations

• Fingerprint and vetting checks

• Medical examinations

Successful candidates will be enrolled in a nine-month training program at SAPS training academies nationwide. During training, recruits will receive a monthly stipend of R4,500.

Background: SAPS Project 10 000 and Recruitment Impact

Over the past three years, SAPS’s Project 10 000, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has successfully recruited and trained over 30,000 young people aged 18 to 35 as police officers to strengthen South Africa’s crime-fighting capacity.

Currently, 5,500 trainees are undergoing training at SAPS academies, with graduation ceremonies scheduled for August and December 2025.

Important Notes

• The application process is completely free.

• No position within SAPS is for sale—beware of scams.

• All applications must be submitted only through the official SAPS e-Recruitment portal.

Final Thoughts

This landmark move towards digital recruitment reflects SAPS’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and efficiency in building a disciplined and capable police force. If you meet the criteria and have a passion for policing, don’t miss this chance to apply and serve your country.

Visit www.saps.gov.za/careers today and take the first step toward becoming a SAPS police trainee!