Time running out to join SAPS in 2025
The SAPS is accepting online applications from South Africans aged 18 to 35 as part of a nationwide recruitment drive.
Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers
Young South Africans have just days left to apply for one of 5 500 SAPS trainee posts - and for the first time, it’s all online.
The South African Police Service has officially launched its e-Recruitment drive, giving youth aged, 18 to 35 until July 18, 2025, to apply. This new system means no paperwork, no queues - just one simple online application
The shift to a digital platform is expected to reduce paperwork, curb corruption and nepotism, and prevent lost applications. It will also enhance fairness, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and improve the integrity and speed of the recruitment process.
Qualifying young men and women without criminal records and/or pending criminal cases are encouraged to apply by visiting www.saps.gov.za/careers then select the e-Recruitment portal from the drop down menu.
The SAPS will also run a targeted recruitment process to identify candidates with specialised skills or qualifications - including graduates in law, policing, criminology, law enforcement, forensic investigation, and information technology. These applicants may be considered for placement in elite units such as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Detective and Forensic Services, and Crime Intelligence.
Successful recruits will undergo nine-month-long training at the SAPS training academies nationwide and receive a monthly stipend of R4 500.
The application process is free of charge, and no position within the SAPS is for sale. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official SAPS website portal.