🚔 SAPS Recruitment 2026 – South African Police Service Intake Now Open
🚔 SAPS Recruitment 2026 – South African Police Service Intake Now Open
Do you want to serve your country, fight crime, and protect communities? The SAPS Recruitment 2026 program is now officially open for applications! If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming part of the South African Police Service, this is your golden opportunity to join the SAPS Intake and wear the badge with pride.
In this full guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to apply successfully for SAPS 2026, including:
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Latest SAPS Application Process
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Entry Requirements for 2026
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How to Download and Submit the SAPS Application Form
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Available Roles for New Recruits
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Important Dates and Deadlines
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FAQs for SAPS Intake 2026
🇿🇦 What Is SAPS Recruitment?
The SAPS (South African Police Service) is responsible for ensuring safety, enforcing the law, and maintaining peace across the country. Every year, SAPS opens a recruitment intake to bring in new police trainees, administrative staff, detectives, and support workers.
For 2026, SAPS plans to recruit thousands of young, energetic, and disciplined individuals who are committed to public service. This year’s recruitment is focused on increasing police presence in high-crime areas and strengthening operational effectiveness.
🔥 Over 5,000 new police trainees will be recruited in the SAPS 2026 intake – don’t miss your chance!
✅ Minimum Requirements to Join SAPS in 2026
Before submitting your application, make sure you meet the official SAPS intake requirements. These are non-negotiable and strictly enforced.
📋 SAPS Intake 2026 Requirements:
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Must be a South African citizen (with valid SA ID)
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Must be between 18 and 30 years of age
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Grade 12 / Matric certificate is required
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Be mentally and physically fit
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Have no criminal record (including pending cases)
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Be proficient in English and another official language
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Willing to undergo intense police training and be placed anywhere in South Africa
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No visible tattoos while wearing the SAPS uniform
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Pass psychometric and physical fitness assessments
🚫 Individuals dismissed from other government departments or SAPS will be disqualified.
📝 How to Apply for SAPS Recruitment 2026
Applying for the SAPS 2026 Intake is easy — and free of charge. No one should ever ask you to pay for an application.
📌 Follow These Steps to Apply:
Step 1: Download the Official Application Form
Visit the SAPS careers website:
👉 https://www.saps.gov.za/careers
Look for the “Police Trainee Application Form (SAPS 15/1)” or Form Z83.
Step 2: Complete the Form Carefully
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Use block letters and black ink
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Attach certified copies of your ID and Matric Certificate
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Sign every required section
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Double-check your contact details
Step 3: Submit the Form to Your Nearest SAPS Office
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Submit in person at your local police station or recruitment centre
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Alternatively, post it to the provincial SAPS recruitment office in your region
📬 Note: No online submissions are accepted. Keep proof of your submission.
📍 SAPS Recruitment Closing Date for 2026
The SAPS Intake 2026 closing date is expected to be around 30 August 2026. However, it’s important to apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute disqualifications.
Keep checking the SAPS website for any deadline changes or official notices.
👮 Available Positions in SAPS 2026
SAPS offers a range of positions across various categories. Here’s what’s available in this year’s intake:
1. 🚓 Police Trainees (Constable)
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Participate in a 24-month Police Development Training Programme
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Get deployed to police stations across South Africa
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Monthly stipend included during training
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Appointment as Constable upon successful completion
2. 🧾 Administration Clerks
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Handle clerical, HR, and data processing duties
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Positions based at police stations, academies, and provincial offices
3. 🔍 Crime Scene Investigators & Detectives
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Openings are limited and often require experience or specialized training
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Includes forensic, investigative, and cybercrime roles
4. 🧹 Support Staff
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Drivers, cleaners, general assistants, and maintenance personnel
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Recruited through SAPS or the Department of Public Service & Administration (DPSA)
🏋️♂️ What Training Do SAPS Recruits Receive?
Successful applicants for SAPS Police Trainee positions will undergo the Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP) which includes:
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8 Months Academy Training – Classroom-based instruction at accredited SAPS academies
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12 Months Field Training – Practical work at a police station
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Final Assessment & Appointment – Graduation and appointment as a fully trained SAPS Constable
🎓 Training Academies Include:
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Tshwane Police Academy (Gauteng)
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Bishop Lavis Academy (Western Cape)
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Ulundi Academy (KwaZulu-Natal)
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Graaff-Reinet Academy (Eastern Cape)
💰 Recruits will receive a monthly stipend during training and full benefits upon appointment.
🔒 Why Join SAPS?
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Stable government employment
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Career growth opportunities
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Pension fund, medical aid, and housing subsidy
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Be part of the fight against crime
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Make a difference in your community
❓ SAPS Intake 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply online for SAPS recruitment?
No. All SAPS applications must be submitted manually via police stations or recruitment offices.
Q: Do I need Grade 12 to apply?
Yes, a Matric certificate is a mandatory requirement.
Q: What is the salary of a police trainee?
Trainees earn a monthly stipend, and upon graduation, a Constable can earn between R189,000 and R233,000 per annum, depending on experience.
Q: Can I reapply if I was rejected before?
Yes, as long as you still meet the age and eligibility requirements.
📝 Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Toward a Meaningful Career
The SAPS Recruitment 2026 program is more than a job opportunity — it’s a national call to serve and protect. If you have the discipline, integrity, and courage to join the force, this is your moment.
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