SAPS to Recruit 5,500 New Police Trainees in 2025

In a significant move to boost policing capacity and strengthen community safety, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced that it will recruit 5,500 new police trainees in 2025. This large-scale recruitment drive is part of government’s broader efforts to combat crime, ensure visible policing, and improve public confidence in law enforcement.

The new intake is set to begin with applications opening at the end of June 2025, with training expected to commence in January 2026. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re interested in applying to become a police trainee or if you want to understand how this move affects policing in South Africa.

Why SAPS is Recruiting 5,500 New Trainees

Minister of Police General Fannie Masemola announced that the SAPS police trainee recruitment 2025 will open before the end of June. He emphasized that this new intake is aligned with government’s vision of reducing crime by increasing boots on the ground.

“The SAPS remains committed to growing its human resource capacity. In 2025, we are recruiting 5,500 new trainees, who will join our ranks in 2026. This is a continuation of our annual recruitment process which ensures that we build a competent, disciplined, and community-oriented police service,” said Masemola.

The increase in personnel is expected to help address crime hotspots, improve response times, and enhance community-based policing. It also supports the national crime prevention strategy and addresses ongoing public concerns about police visibility and performance.

When and How to Apply

The application window is scheduled to open at the end of June 2025, with official dates to be published on the SAPS website and in local media. The application process will be conducted both online and through walk-in submissions at police stations across the country.

Here’s a summary of the application steps:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the basic requirements (see next section).
• Collect Required Documents: This includes certified copies of your ID, Grade 12 certificate, and other supporting documents.
• Submit Application: Applications can be submitted online
• Screening Process: Includes background checks, medical assessments, psychometric tests, and interviews.
• Training Selection: Successful candidates will be notified and enrolled in the Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP).

The Training Programme: What to Expect

Successful applicants will be enrolled in the Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP), which is a 21-month integrated training programme divided into three phases:

Foundational Phase (Academy Training): Conducted over 8 months at a police academy. Trainees are exposed to theoretical modules, including criminal law, human rights, and the SAPS Code of Conduct.

Field Training Phase: After the academy, trainees are placed at police stations for 12 months of practical training under supervision.

Final Assessment Phase: In the last month, trainees are assessed on the job readiness and overall fitness for duty.

Trainees receive a monthly stipend during training and are provided with uniforms, accommodation (at academies), and meals.

Where Will the Trainees Be Trained?

SAPS has multiple training academies across the country, including:

• SAPS Tshwane Academy (Pretoria)
• SAPS Bishop Lavis Academy (Western Cape)
• SAPS Bhisho Academy (Eastern Cape)
• SAPS Chatsworth Academy (KwaZulu-Natal)
• SAPS Oudtshoorn Academy (Western Cape)

Placement depends on the candidate’s home province and available space at training facilities. However, trainees must be willing to train and work anywhere in South Africa.

Why This Recruitment Matters

This recruitment drive is not just about filling posts—it’s about building a more professional, accountable, and people-focused police force. By recruiting thousands of new officers annually, SAPS aims to:

• Combat high levels of crime: With a strong presence in communities.
• Reduce the police-to-population ratio: Currently above international norms.
• Strengthen specialized units: Such as gender-based violence and detective services.
• Create youth employment: Particularly for matriculants who are unemployed.

Government hopes this initiative will also restore public trust in policing, especially in under-served rural and township areas.

A Message to Youth Considering the SAPS

Joining the police service is more than a job—it’s a calling. If you are a young South African looking to make a real difference in your community, this is your opportunity.

“The 2025 recruitment is not just about numbers. It’s about building a legacy of honest, courageous, and disciplined officers who put the people first,” said SAPS spokesperson.

Final Thoughts

With over 5,500 posts available, the 2025 SAPS trainee intake is one of the most important government recruitment drives of the year. It offers young South Africans a stable career, purpose-driven work, and the chance to be part of the national solution to crime.

Aspiring candidates are encouraged to prepare early, gather their documents, and stay informed through official SAPS communication platforms.

As South Africa looks to the future, the next generation of police officers will play a vital role in securing it.

Useful Links:

SAPS Official Website: www.saps.gov.za

SAPS Careers Page: www.saps.gov.za/careers

Follow SAPS on Facebook and Twitter for updates