The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened applications for 5,500 police trainee posts, with eligible South Africans urged to apply before the November deadline.

The recruitment drive is aimed at young people aged 18 to under 35 who are committed to serving their communities and helping to fight crime.

Applications must be submitted online through the official SAPS eRecruitment portal.

Applicants must have no criminal record or pending criminal cases. They will also undergo a rigorous selection process, including physical fitness, psychometric and integrity tests, a medical evaluation and an interview.

The SAPS says candidates with relevant qualifications could be considered for specialised policing roles.

Graduates in Law, Policing, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Forensic Investigation and Information Technology may be considered for placement within the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, as well as Detective and Forensic Services and Crime Intelligence.

Successful recruits with a relevant NQF Level 6 or higher qualification will undergo six months of training at a SAPS academy. Those without such qualifications will complete the standard nine-month training programme.

All trainees will receive a monthly stipend of R5,000 during their training.

Prospective applicants must create a profile on the recruitment portal and verify their accounts using a code sent to their email addresses before proceeding with their applications.

Applications close on 13 November 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The SAPS has warned that applications are free of charge and that no police trainee position is for sale. Applicants are urged to be alert to fraudsters who demand money in exchange for employment or claim they can influence the recruitment process.