The recruitment for volunteers to join the police is based on the operational needs and priorities of the SAPS and the need to acquire specialised skills and competencies to ensure that suitable community members are recruited.
As a volunteer, you can be placed either as a Functional Policing Reservist or as a Specialized Operational Support Reservist.
Below are the basic criteria should you want to be a SAPS volunteer:
- Be a South African citizen by birth
- Be at least 25, but under 40 years of age, of which documentary proof must be furnished
- Complete a health questionnaire, at his or her own cost, which is confirmed by a registered medical practitioner
- Be medically, mentally, and physically fit to perform duties
- Be of good and sound character
- Fit the psychometric profile and must successfully complete any other test that may be determined by the National Commissioner
- Be in possession of at least a senior certificate (Grade 12) or must have successfully completed a SAQA accredited NQF level 4 qualification, of which documentary proof must be provided
- Be able to speak, read and write at least two official languages, of which one must be English
- Allow his or her fingerprints and a DNA sample to be taken
- Be prepared to undergo such training as may be determined by the National Commissioner
- Be prepared to take the prescribed oath of office
- Understand that his or her services may be terminated at the age of 60
- Complete an assessment questionnaire
- Be vetted or screened
- Be employed and provide proof of employment
- Provide proof of his or her residential address
- Not have a criminal record or any criminal or departmental cases pending against him or her (all criminal or departmental cases must be declared)
- Not have a tattoo which will be visible if the person wears a uniform
Here is how you can apply to become a SAPS volunteer:
- Obtain an application form by visiting your nearest police station or download the PDF online.
- Fill in the application form using black ink and capital letters
- Accompany your application with certified copies of the following:
- Identification Document
- Drivers License
- Certificates of all qualifications obtained (Grade 12 or equivalent/ certificates/ degrees and or diplomas)
- Study records of all qualifications
- Testimonial of school, Religious Body or current employer.
- Service certificates of the previous and current employer(s), stating the kind of posts occupied.
- The form will need to be delivered to your nearest police station where the form will be sworn to or affirmed and then signed in the presence of a commissioner of oaths.
Retired police members are encouraged to apply as volunteers, as they can share their experiences.
The National Commissioner is the one who determines when volunteers must undergo training.
For further information and guidelines, click here.
