SAPS Police Trainee 2025/2026: Checklist & Application Guide

SAPS Police Trainee 2025/2026: Checklist & Application Guide: The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened applications for 5 500 trainee positions across the country, and many South Africans are jumping at the opportunity. If you’re planning to apply, this post will guide you through everything you need before you hit that “submit” button.

SAPS Police Trainee 2025/2026: Checklist & Application Guide – Why This Checklist Is Important:

Before starting your application, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet all the basic requirements — because the SAPS system allows you to apply only once. If you submit an incomplete or incorrect application, you won’t get a second chance.

The e-recruitment portal is designed to block duplicate submissions, meaning one mistake could cost you the entire opportunity. Using this checklist helps you apply confidently, with everything in order the first time around.

From eligibility to step-by-step instructions — here’s your SAPS Trainee 2025/2026 Checklist and Application Guide.

Want full info about requirements, salary, training, and benefits? Read the official SAPS job post here

Pre-Application Checklist

Make sure you meet all the basic requirements before starting your online application:

[ ] You are a South African citizen with valid ID

[ ] You are between 18 and 35 years old (by 18 July 2025)

[ ] You have a Grade 12 certificate or an equivalent qualification

[ ] You can speak English and at least one other official language

[ ] You have no visible tattoos when wearing the SAPS uniform

[ ] You have no criminal record and no pending cases

[ ] You are physically, mentally, and medically fit

[ ] You are willing to serve anywhere in South Africa

[ ] You are willing to undergo DNA sampling, fingerprint checks, vetting, and fitness testing

[ ] Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 30 or lower

[ ] Your waist size is ≤ 102 cm (men) or ≤ 90 cm (women)

Optional but beneficial:

[ ] You have a valid driver’s licence

[ ] You hold a 3-year tertiary qualification (NQF 6 or higher) in Law, Policing, Forensics, Criminology, IT, etc.

SAPS Police Trainee 2025/2026: Checklist & Application Guide – How to Apply Online

To apply for the SAPS Police Trainee post, follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the official SAPS website

2. Click on “Careers” in the top menu

3. Register a new user account on the e-recruitment system

4. Log into your account

5. Update your profile with all personal and qualification details

6. Go to the vacancy section and locate:

Police Trainee – Reference: TRAINEE2025/2026

7. Start your application and complete each step in the form

8. Upload the required documents, such as:

• Certified ID copy
• Matric certificate
• Driver’s licence (if applicable)
• Qualifications (if applicable)

In case you do not qualify, you may also apply for Metro Police Learnership Programme 2025

Conclusion:

If your application is successful, SAPS will contact you for the next phase, which includes physical assessments and background checks.

If you do not hear back within 3 months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.

If your age disqualifies you, you have a better chance of being considered for JICS Correctional Centre Visitors