Careers · Safety & security

How to become a police officer in South Africa

Police officers keep people safe and enforce the law. You join the South African Police Service (SAPS) with matric, no degree needed.

From R 16 000/mo · median ~R 26 000Steady demand
Starting payR 16 000/mo
Study time24 months (paid training)
QualificationOccupational
DemandSteady demand

What it costs and how to pay

You do not pay to become a police officer. SAPS trains you and pays you a salary during training. If you choose to study a policing qualification first, NSFAS can fund that, but it is not required.

You do not pay to become a police officer. SAPS pays you a salary while you train.

SAPS pays you to train

During the 24-month training you earn a salary, not a bursary. You do not pay tuition.

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If you study policing first

If you choose to study a Diploma in Policing at a public university or TVET first, NSFAS can pay for it. But you do not need to study to join SAPS.

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Metro and traffic training

Metro police and traffic officer training are also paid, not something you pay for.

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Ready to apply?

When you have picked a way in, apply before the closing date.

Questions people ask