How Long Does the SAPS Recruitment Process Take?

If you’re planning to apply to become a police officer in South Africa through the SAPS recruitment programme, you’re probably asking one important question: How long does the SAPS recruitment process take?

The answer depends on several factors, including when you apply, how efficient the selection process is in your province, and whether there are any delays due to logistics or medical evaluations. 

In general, the entire SAPS recruitment process can take 6 to 8 months from the time applications open to when selected candidates report to the Police Academy for training.

A break down of the full SAPS recruitment process 

1. Application Stage (2–6 weeks)

SAPS opens recruitment for police trainees at specific times of the year. For example, for the 2026 intake, applications are expected to open around June 2025.

You will have about 4 to 6 weeks to complete and submit your SAPS 2026 online application 

Application Tips:

• Ensure your documents are certified and up to date.
• Submit your online application on time before the closing date. 

2. Initial Screening (2–4 weeks)

After applications close, SAPS will begin preliminary screening to verify basic requirements such as:

• South African citizenship
• Age (18–30 years)
• Matric certificate (minimum requirements apply)
• No criminal record
• Tattoos that do not violate SAPS policy
• Fitness for service

This stage can take up to 6 weeks, depending on the number of applications received and internal SAPS capacity.

3. Psychometric and Integrity Testing (2–4 weeks)

If your application passes the initial screening, you’ll be invited to undergo psychometric tests. These tests assess:

• Cognitive ability
• Language skills
• Logical thinking
• Emotional stability
• Integrity (honesty, ethics, and suitability for police work)

You will be notified via SMS or email about the date and venue. These tests are usually scheduled within 1 to 2 months after the initial screening. Results may take up to 2 weeks to be processed and released.

4. Physical Fitness Assessment (1–2 weeks)

Next comes the physical fitness test—an essential part of the SAPS selection process.

You will be evaluated on your ability to:

• Run  about 2.4 km in a set time
• Do sit-ups, push-ups, or shuttle runs
• Meet the required BMI range (Body Mass Index)

This is a pass/fail stage. If you pass, you move on to the medical check. If not, you are disqualified from continuing.

5. Medical Examination (2–3 weeks)

Qualified candidates are then referred for a comprehensive medical examination. This includes:

• Physical health assessment
• Eye test
• Blood pressure and heart checks
• Drug testing
• Mental health evaluation

The results are forwarded to SAPS. This phase may take 2–4 weeks, depending on clinic availability and the speed of test results.

6. Background and Security Clearance (2–4 weeks)

During or after your medical assessment, SAPS will conduct an in-depth background check. This includes:

• Verifying school and address records
• Checking criminal records
• Visiting your home or interviewing your neighbours and community members
• Confirming previous employment (if any)
• This is one of the most time-consuming phases and can take up to 2 months to complete.

7. Final Selection and Offer (2–4 weeks)

Once all assessments are completed and you have passed each stage, your application moves to the final selection committee. You will receive:

1. An acceptance letter or SMS
2. Reporting instructions (e.g., date and venue of training)
3. A detailed checklist of what to bring to the academy

8. Training Commencement (End of Recruitment Process)

Once accepted, you’ll begin your Institution Phase (basic training) at one of the SAPS training academies. Training usually starts in January or April of the following year, depending on intake numbers and budget allocations.

Training Duration:

Institution Phase: 8 months

Probation Phase (in-service): 12 months

Summary Timeline: SAPS Recruitment Process Duration

Total Duration: 6 to 8 months

Final Thoughts

The SAPS recruitment process is not instant—it is designed to ensure only the most suitable candidates are chosen to serve and protect the nation. 

While the waiting period can feel long, it’s important to stay patient, remain physically fit, and check your SMS or email regularly for updates.

If you’re serious about joining the SAPS, start preparing early and keep copies of all important documents ready.

 With the right mindset and preparation, you could be part of the next generation of police officers making a difference in South Africa.