How To Volunteer For The SAPS
The National Commissioner designates a reserve to serve as a voluntary supporter of SAPS in its position as a member of the Reserve Police Service. Here is a guidance on how to volunteer with the SAPS.
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 is 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
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.