SAPS Hiring 5,500 New Recruits in 2026 – How to Apply and Get the Application Forms

Exciting News: SAPS is Hiring 5,500 New Police Trainees for 2026

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially announced the recruitment of 5,500 new police trainees for the 2026 intake. This is part of the government’s continued effort to fight crime and improve public safety across the country. If you are passionate about serving your country, maintaining law and order, and helping your community, then this opportunity is your gateway into a meaningful and respected career in law enforcement.

In this article, we’ll break down how to apply, where to get the SAPS application forms, and the minimum requirements to qualify as one of the 5,500 successful recruits.

🔍 Who Can Apply for the SAPS 2026 Recruitment?

To be considered for the 2026 SAPS intake, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

• ✅ Be a South African citizen (by birth or naturalization)

• ✅ Aged between 18 and 30 years

• ✅ Possess a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate

• ✅ Be physically and mentally fit

• ✅ Have no criminal record or pending criminal cases

• ✅ Be able to read, write, and speak English and one other official language

• ✅ Have no visible tattoos while wearing the SAPS uniform

• ✅ Be willing to undergo training and be deployed anywhere in South Africa

Note: Possessing a valid Code B driver’s license is an added advantage but not compulsory.

📝 How to Apply for SAPS Recruitment 2026

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Download the SAPS Application Form

   • Visit the official SAPS website: www.saps.gov.za

   • Go to the Careers or Vacancies section

   • Download the Police Trainee Application Form (SAPS Application Form 2026)

2. Fill in the Form Carefully

   • Complete all sections of the form in block letters

   • Ensure your information is honest and accurate

   • Attach certified copies of:

     • Your ID

     • Grade 12 certificate

     • Driver’s license (if you have one)

     • Any additional qualifications

3. Submit Your Application

   • Applications must be hand-delivered or posted to the nearest SAPS Provincial Recruitment Office

   • No online or email submissions are accepted for police trainees

4. Wait for Contact

   • Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for:

     • Fitness assessment

     • Psychometric testing

     • Medical evaluation

     • Background screening and interviews

📍 Where to Submit SAPS Application Forms

You must submit your completed SAPS application form to the nearest SAPS recruitment centre or provincial office. Each province has designated addresses for application submissions. Visit your local police station or SAPS website to find your nearest drop-off location.

🧠 What Happens After You Apply?

If your application is successful, you will be invited to:

• Complete a physical fitness test

• Undergo psychometric and integrity testing

• Attend a panel interview

• Be placed into a 12-month Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP)

After completing training, you will become a fully-fledged Constable in the South African Police Service.

📅 Important Dates for SAPS Recruitment 2026

• Application Opening Date: Now Open

• Closing Date: [Typically set 30-60 days from opening – to be confirmed by SAPS]

• Training Starts: Early 2026

Stay up to date by checking the SAPS Careers page regularly or following official government job boards.

📂 Download SAPS Application Form (PDF) – Direct Link

👉 Click here to download the SAPS Trainee Application Form 2025 – PDF
(You will find it under the “Police Trainee Application Form” section on the SAPS Careers page)

📌 Pro Tip: Avoid Scams!

✅ SAPS does not charge money for recruitment or application forms.
❌ Never pay anyone claiming to sell SAPS jobs or forms.
🛡️ Only apply through official SAPS channels.

✍️ Final Words: Join SAPS and Make a Difference in 2026

Becoming a police officer is more than a job – it’s a commitment to protect, serve, and build safer communities. If you meet the requirements and are driven by purpose and patriotism, this is your moment. With 5,500 positions available, this is one of the biggest SAPS recruitment drives in years.

Don’t miss out! Download the SAPS application form today, submit your documents, and take the first step toward a proud career in policing.