More than 156 000 people registered on the South African Police Service (SAPS) recruitment portal within 24 hours of applications opening for 5 500 SAPS trainee posts. It’s another stark sign of how many South Africans, especially young people, are desperate for work.
SAPS says 156 131 people created profiles on its eRecruitment portal in under a day. Because of the heavy traffic, it has asked applicants to “exercise patience” while they use the system.
The Numbers After The First Day
| Stage | Number of people |
|---|---|
| Registered profiles | 156 131 |
| Completed profile verification | 78 473 |
| Started an application | 53 716 |
| Completed and submitted an application | 29 013 |
With 5 500 posts available, the first-day registrations alone mean about 28 people are competing for every post, and applications are open for three more weeks.
History Could Repeat Itself
SAPS’s previous online recruitment drive, which opened on 30 June 2025, attracted 1 049 998 applications for the same number of trainee posts, 5 500. That’s about 190 applicants for every post. Women made up the majority, with 595 049 applications, compared with 454 949 from men.
In 2025, about 67 774 applications came in during the first 24 hours. This year’s 156 131 first-day registrations suggest interest could be even higher, although registering a profile isn’t the same as submitting an application.
ALSO READ: Police Trainee Posts See Record Applications: Women Lead, Few Will Be Hired
Why So Many People Are Applying
The rush reflects South Africa’s unemployment crisis. According to Stats SA, the official unemployment rate rose to 33,6% in the second quarter of 2026. Among young people aged 15 to 34, it’s 47,4%, and about 5 million young people are unemployed.
A police career offers what many job seekers are looking for: a monthly stipend during training, a permanent government job, a stable salary and public service benefits.
SAPS Police Trainee Programme 2026/27: What You Need To Know
Key Dates
- Applications opened: 21 October 2026
- Applications close: 13 November 2026
Who Can Apply?
You must:
- be a South African citizen
- be 18 to 35 years old by the closing date
- have a Grade 12 (matric) certificate or equivalent
- speak English and at least one other official language
- have no criminal record and no pending criminal cases
- be physically and mentally fit.
Visible tattoos aren’t allowed while wearing a police uniform.
Graduates: SAPS is also looking for applicants with a relevant three-year qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher, in fields such as law, criminology, forensic investigation or IT. They may be considered for specialist units such as Crime Intelligence and Detective and Forensic Services.
Pay And Benefits
- During training: a stipend of R5 000 a month, plus meals, accommodation and training gear at a SAPS academy
- After training: successful trainees may be appointed as constables, with an advertised salary of R248 175 a year, plus public service benefits
The Selection Process
Shortlisted applicants will go through:
- physical and medical assessments
- psychological and integrity assessments
- interviews
- security vetting.
Training can take place at any SAPS academy in the country, so be prepared to travel.
How To Apply
- Go to the official SAPS eRecruitment portal: erecruitment.saps.gov.za.
- Register a profile and complete the verification process.
- Fill in and submit your application before 13 November 2026.
- Submit only one application.
- Keep your phone and email active, because SAPS will contact shortlisted candidates.
Tip: with so many people on the portal, try applying outside peak hours, such as early in the morning or late at night. Don’t wait until the last few days.
Beware Of Scams
SAPS has warned that “no police trainee position is for sale”.
- Applying is free. Never pay anyone to apply for you or to “guarantee” you a place.
- Only use the official portal. In 2025, SAPS said applications sent by email would not be accepted.
- Ignore social media posts and WhatsApp messages offering jobs for a fee, and report them to the police.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many People Have Applied For SAPS Trainee Posts?
In under 24 hours, 156 131 people registered profiles, and 29 013 completed and submitted applications.
How Many SAPS Trainee Posts Are Available?
There are 5 500 police trainee posts for the 2026/27 intake.
When Do SAPS Applications Close?
Applications close on 13 November 2026.
What Are The Requirements For SAPS Police Trainees?
You must be a South African citizen aged 18 to 35, with a Grade 12 certificate, no criminal record, and be able to speak English and at least one other official language. You’ll also need to pass medical, fitness, psychological and integrity assessments.
How Much Do SAPS Trainees Earn?
Trainees receive a stipend of R5 000 a month during training. Newly appointed constables earn an advertised R248 175 a year.
Do I Have To Pay To Apply For A SAPS Job?
No. Applying is free. SAPS says “no police trainee position is for sale”, so never pay anyone for help.
