What to Expect and How to Pass in 2025
Applying for the South African Police Service (SAPS) through the Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP)? Then you’ll need to pass a compulsory medical examination before you can start your training.
This medical check ensures that every recruit is fit, healthy, and physically capable of handling the demanding duties of police work.
In this post, we’ll explain exactly what the SAPS medical examination involves, how to prepare for it, and what could disqualify you.
📌 Why Is the SAPS Medical Test Important?
The role of a police officer requires excellent physical health, mental stability, and endurance. SAPS uses this medical test to:
- Detect health conditions that may affect your performance
- Prevent injuries or complications during physical training
- Ensure you’re fit for stressful, high-risk duties
- Protect your safety — and the safety of the public
🧑⚕️ What to Expect During the SAPS Medical Examination
The SAPS medical check is usually conducted by a registered SAPS-approved doctor or at an SAPS medical facility.
Here’s what it typically includes:
✅ 1. General Physical Examination
The doctor will check your:
- Height and weight (for BMI)
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Vision (distance and colour blindness)
- Hearing
- Reflexes and physical coordination
✅ 2. Urine and Blood Tests
These tests check for:
- Diabetes
- Kidney or liver issues
- Drug or alcohol use
🧪 Tip: Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and processed foods 72 hours before the test.
✅ 3. Chest X-Ray or Lung Function Test
Used to identify:
- Lung infections or diseases
- Chronic asthma
- Tuberculosis (TB)
✅ 4. Mental Health Screening
Some assessments may include a basic mental wellness check to evaluate your:
- Emotional stability
- Stress tolerance
- Response to trauma or confrontation
✅ 5. Fitness-to-Serve Certificate
If you pass the full medical exam, the doctor will issue a certificate confirming your fitness for SAPS training. Without this, you cannot proceed to the final training stage.
⚠️ Health Conditions That May Disqualify You
While each case is considered individually, the following may lead to automatic disqualification:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Poor eyesight (not correctable)
- Hearing problems
- Chronic asthma or epilepsy
- Serious heart or lung conditions
- Drug or alcohol dependence
- Mental health instability or history of breakdowns
💡 Some minor issues can be re-checked later — always ask the SAPS doctor for clarity.
📝 What to Bring on the Day of the Exam
- Valid ID book or card
- Any previous medical records
- Eyeglasses or hearing aids (if you use them)
- A list of any medications you take
- Your application reference number or SAPS invite
✅ How to Prepare for the SAPS Medical Exam
Here are practical tips to help you pass:
🥗 1. Eat Healthy
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and water-rich foods for a week before the test.
🚭 2. Avoid Alcohol & Smoking
These affect your lung function and liver tests.
🏃♂️ 3. Exercise Gently
Don’t overwork your body just before the exam. Stick to light workouts and stretching.
😴 4. Sleep Well
Aim for at least 7–8 hours the night before.
💧 5. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of the test.
🎯 Final Thoughts
The SAPS medical exam is not designed to disqualify you — it’s there to make sure you’re ready to serve, protect, and survive in the field.
Prepare your body and mind, stay honest about your health, and you’ll be one step closer to joining the SAPS family.
🩺 “Your health is your first weapon — take care of it.”
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