If you’ve recently applied for the SAPS Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP), congratulations on taking your first step toward becoming a police officer in South Africa! 🎓👮♂️
But what happens next? In this post, we’ll walk you through what to expect after submitting your SAPS application — from assessments to training and beyond.
📝 Step 1: Application Review and Screening
After you apply, your documents will go through a screening process. SAPS checks if:
- You meet the minimum entry requirements (age, education, citizenship, criminal record, etc.)
- All your documents are complete and valid
- You are medically and physically fit for training
✅ Tip: Make sure your application was submitted correctly and keep a copy of everything!
🧠 Step 2: Psychometric Testing
If your application is successful, SAPS will invite you to do a psychometric test. This test measures your:
- Logical reasoning
- Memory
- Communication skills
- Personality traits
Only candidates who pass this stage move forward.
💪 Step 3: Physical Fitness Assessment
SAPS will test your physical fitness to ensure you’re capable of handling the demands of police work. Expect activities like:
- Push-ups
- Sit-ups
- Running (2.4 km run)
- Shuttle runs or agility drills
You’ll need to be in good shape — start training early!
👩⚕️ Step 4: Medical Examination
If you pass the physical test, you’ll undergo a medical check-up to confirm that you’re in good health. This includes:
- Vision and hearing tests
- Blood pressure checks
- General physical condition
Medical fitness is non-negotiable — your health must be up to standard.
📄 Step 5: Background and Security Clearance
SAPS will investigate your background. They’ll check for:
- Criminal records
- Gang affiliations
- Any previous misconduct
This is to ensure you’re trustworthy and suitable to serve in the police force.
📢 Step 6: Final Selection and Offer
If you pass all the stages, you’ll be notified via:
- SMS
- Or a phone call
Then you’ll receive a formal offer to join the SAPS Basic Police Training Programme. This is where your journey truly begins!
🎓 Step 7: Start of Training
You’ll be placed at a SAPS training academy for basic police development training. Expect:
- 12 months of theoretical training (classroom learning)
- 12 months of practical experience at a police station
You’ll receive a monthly stipend during your training, plus accommodation and meals.
💼 After Training: Appointment as a Constable
Once you successfully complete training and assessments, you’ll be appointed as a constable in the South African Police Service. You’ll be ready to serve and protect! 💙
📌 Final Tips for Applicants
- Stay patient – the process takes time
- Keep your phone on – for SAPS updates
- Stay fit and focused
- Don’t miss deadlines if called for assessments
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