SAPS received 150 000 applications for 5 500 trainee posts

The South African Police Service (SAPS) says they have received more than 150 000 applications for just 5 500 police trainee posts in less than 24 hours, highlighting the high demand for opportunities to join the police service.

The recruitment portal opened at midnight on Wednesday, with over 29 000 applicants having already completed and submitted their applications. #sapsHQ [SAPS RECORDS 156 131 REGISTRATIONS IN LESS THAN 24 HOURS OF OPENING OF RECRUITMENT DRIVE FOR 5 500 POLICE TRAINEE POSTS] The South African Police Service (SAPS) has recorded an overwhelming response to its online recruitment drive for 5 500 police trainees, with 156 131 profile registrations recorded nationwide in less than 24 hours after the portal opened at midnight on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.

The recruitment drive invites South Africans under the age of 35, irrespective of race or gender, who meet the requirements to apply for an opportunity to pursue a career in policing and contribute to the fight against crime.

Of the 156 131 individuals who registered profiles, 78 473 completed the profile verification process.

A further 53 716 initiated their applications, while 29 013 completed and submitted their applications through the online portal.

Given the high volume of traffic, prospective applicants are urged to exercise patience when accessing the portal and completing their applications.

Applicants are encouraged to ensure that they meet all the requirements and submit their applications before the closing date.

Eligible applicants who have no criminal record and no pending criminal cases are encouraged to apply through the official #SAPS eRecruitment portal: https://t.co/WkldkcbP8C The closing date for applications is 13 November 2026.

DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

JOIN THE SAPS AND HELP BUILD A SAFER SOUTH AFRICA! #SAPSCareers #SAPSEmployerOfChoice ST — SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) October 21, 2026 Police spokesperson Colonel Amanda Van Wyk says the recruitment drive is open to qualifying South Africans under the age of 35, regardless of race or gender, who want to pursue a career in policing.

“Given the high volume of traffic, prospective applicants are urged to exercise patience when accessing the portal and completing their applications.” Van Wyk says applicants are encouraged to ensure that they meet all the requirements and submit their applications before the closing date.

“Eligible applicants who have no criminal record and no pending criminal cases are encouraged to apply through the official SAPS eRecruitment portal.