How Much Do Police Earn Per Month in South Africa?

In South Africa, the police force plays a critical role in maintaining law and order, ensuring the safety of citizens, and upholding the Constitution. One of the most frequently asked questions by aspiring officers and the general public is: “How much do police earn per month in South Africa?”

The answer depends on various factors, including rank, years of experience, qualifications, and location. In this article, we break down the monthly salaries of different ranks within the South African Police Service (SAPS), including entry-level trainees, constables, sergeants, warrant officers, and commissioned officers.

1. Police Trainee Salary

When a new recruit joins SAPS, they do not immediately become a fully-fledged police officer. They must first complete the Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP). During this training phase, they are considered police trainees and receive a stipend instead of a full salary.

• As of 2025, the monthly stipend for a police trainee is approximately:

R4,500 to R5,000 per month

This amount covers basic living expenses while they undergo training, which typically lasts for 12 months. Trainees receive academic instruction, physical training, and practical work experience.

Upon successful completion of training, they are formally appointed as constables and become eligible for a full SAPS salary and benefits.

2. Constable Salary – Entry-Level Police Officer

The Constable is the first official rank after training. It is also the most common position within SAPS. A constable is responsible for basic policing duties such as patrolling, investigating minor crimes, arresting suspects, and writing reports.

• As of 2025, the monthly salary for a SAPS constable ranges between:

R12,000 to R18,000 per month

The variation depends on the officer’s experience, location, and overtime hours worked. For example, an officer stationed in high-crime or remote areas may earn additional allowances or receive special risk benefits.

The salary structure also includes:

• Medical aid subsidies
• Housing allowances
• Pension contributions

These benefits increase the overall value of a constable’s employment package.

3. Sergeant Salary – Mid-Level Position

The next step in the SAPS hierarchy is the Sergeant rank. Sergeants have more responsibilities than constables and often supervise junior officers or handle more complex investigations.

• The average monthly salary for a Sergeant in SAPS is:

R18,000 to R23,000 per month

Again, the exact figure depends on years of service, location, and overtime. Additional allowances for night shifts or hazardous duties may also apply. Promotion to sergeant generally requires several years of service and satisfactory performance.

4. Warrant Officer Salary – Senior Non-Commissioned Officer

Warrant Officers are highly experienced members of SAPS and are often assigned specialized roles such as crime intelligence, forensics, or tactical units. They play a leadership role within their respective departments and are expected to mentor junior officers.

• As of the latest salary updates, Warrant Officers earn between:

R23,000 to R30,000 per month

Their responsibilities, rank, and experience mean they qualify for higher benefits, including greater risk allowances and responsibility bonuses. Some warrant officers may also receive additional income if they work in national units or elite task forces.

5. Commissioned Officer Salaries: Lieutenant to General

Commissioned officers are SAPS members who have moved into formal leadership and administrative positions. Their salaries increase significantly as they rise through the ranks. Below is an approximate breakdown:

a) Lieutenant / Captain

Monthly Salary: R30,000 to R40,000

Captains manage a team of officers and handle strategic planning for stations or departments.

b) Major / Lieutenant Colonel / Colonel

Monthly Salary: R40,000 to R60,000

These officers manage clusters, districts, or major police projects.

c) Brigadier / Major-General / Lieutenant-General

Monthly Salary: R60,000 to R90,000+

They are in charge of regional and national operations.

d) National Commissioner

Monthly Salary: R100,000+

This is the highest-ranking officer in SAPS, responsible for national policing strategy.

Salaries for commissioned officers often include:

• Travel allowances
• Cellphone and data packages
• Official vehicles
• Performance bonuses

Allowances and Benefits for Police Officers in South Africa

Service Allowance - Paid to encourage long-term service.

Danger Allowance - Paid to members working in high-risk environments.

Overtime Pay - Officers working beyond standard hours (especially during protests, special operations, and public holidays) are paid overtime.

Medical and Pension Contributions - SAPS contributes to members’ medical aid and retirement fund.

Housing Subsidy - Officers who do not receive state housing are given a monthly housing allowance.

SAPS Salary Increases and Union Negotiations

Police salaries are periodically reviewed through negotiations between SAPS management and trade unions such as POPCRU (Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union). In most years, salary adjustments are tied to inflation and government budget allocations.

Unions often advocate for better pay, especially for lower-ranking officers, citing the dangers and mental stress involved in policing.

Career Growth and Salary Progression

1. A police officer’s salary doesn’t stay stagnant. There are multiple opportunities for growth within SAPS, including:
2. Completing SAPS training courses and diplomas can lead to promotions.
3. Officers who further their education (e.g., with a degree in criminology or public management) are often considered for leadership roles.
4. Exceptional performance and commitment are also rewarded with merit promotions.

For example, an officer who starts as a constable at R13,000 per month can, with hard work and time, move up to sergeant, then warrant officer, and eventually reach senior ranks with a salary of over R60,000 per month.

Conclusion

A career in the South African Police Service is more than just a job—it’s a calling to serve and protect the nation. 

While the salaries at entry level may seem modest, SAPS offers a clear path for growth, strong benefits, and job security. 

For those who are passionate about justice, safety, and making a difference, it can be a rewarding long-term career both personally and financially.

To summarise, here's a quick salary guide:

Final Tip:

If you're planning to join SAPS, keep an eye on the official SAPS Careers Portal for the latest salary scales, recruitment updates, and application openings.