How To Become A Law Enforcement Officer In South Africa

A law enforcement officer, or peace officer in North American English, is a public-sector employee whose duties primarily involve the enforcement of laws.

What Does a Police Officer Do?

In the simplest sense, police officers enforce laws and protect life and property. But of course, there is much more to it than that. Here’s how it breaks down:

Police Officer Careers Basics

Police officers are sworn to protect and serve the communities in which they live and work. They enforce laws, obtain warrants, arrest and interview suspects, secure crime and accident scenes, write detailed reports and testify in court, among other duties. Officers often respond to emergency calls, working shifts that operate around the clock.

Certificate in Law Enforcement

A certificate in criminal justice or criminology is an opportunity for individuals to gain specific instruction in an area of law enforcement. Since a certificate consists of a few classes and can be completed in a few months, the certificate can also provide an opportunity to get started on an associate degree without having to commit to the two years just yet.

Below are steps to Become A Law Enforcement Officer In South Africa

Obtain high school diploma or GED

Getting a high school diploma or GED is the minimum formal education requirement for most police officers. Many law enforcement organizations may require or prefer applicants with a bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree or a certain number of postsecondary education credits.

Meet other minimum requirements

Most applicants will need to be a US citizen, have a valid driver’s license and be at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on department policy. Applicants will also need a clean criminal record, although some police departments may allow those with criminal records as long as their offences were very minor. Felonies will disqualify someone from this profession.

Obtain a bachelor’s degree (optional)

A bachelor’s degree is usually needed for more advanced law enforcement positions, especially those at the federal level, such as with the FBI or US Fish and Wildlife Service. Even if it’s not required, police departments are increasing beginning to look favorably on applicants with college degrees.

Pass the law enforcement entrance exam

Before being admitted into a police academy, applicants must achieve a passing score on an entrance exam. The exact entrance exam taken will depend on the police academy and jurisdiction. Some of the tests given include Asset, Compass and LEE (Law Enforcement Examination).

How long does it take to become a law enforcement officer

In South Africa?

It usually takes about 13 to 19 weeks on average but can last up to six months. Note that it is possible to complete the Police Academy prior to applying for a police officer.

How long does it take to become a police officer in South Africa?

The duration of the Learning Programme will be 24 months, of which 12 months will be at the Academy and 12 months in the workplace. It will consist of two phases at the academy and one phase in the workplace. Foundational phase – will mainly focus on acquiring necessary knowledge and skills.

How much does a SA police officer earn?

South African Police Services Jobs by Salary

Job TitleRangeAverage
Police or Sheriff’s Patrol OfficerRange:R99k – R380kAverage:R241,334
ConstableRange:R115k – R211kAverage:R172,727
Police CaptainRange:R203k – R470kAverage:R327,961
PolicemanRange:R70k – R366kAverage:R209,658

Can a police officer have tattoos in South Africa?

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.

Can I become a police officer without matric?

We can help! If you are looking to apply to become a police officer then you should know that you do not have to obtain a diploma or degree but you must have passed matric with the compulsory languages and mathematics or mathematical literacy. You must be fluent in English and at least one other official language.

What will I do in police career?

Duties can include interviewing suspected criminals, taking statements, writing crime reports, dealing with paperwork, gathering prosecution evidence, giving evidence in court, fostering good relationships, with the public, patrolling areas by foot and car, making and processing arrests, searching suspects, responding.

Is a police officer a good career?

In addition to a stable and attractive paycheck, police officers can look forward to health insurance, retirement packages and other benefits that many large private corporations don’t usually provide their employees. A career in law enforcement can also provide quite a bit of upward mobility and career advancement.

How long do police officers work?

You’ll typically work between 35 and 40 hours a week, but understandably you might be required to work early mornings, evenings, night shifts and weekends from time to time. Fortunately, police officers receive extra pay for overtime, but are expected to be available for duty on a 24/7 basis.

What are the disadvantages of a police officer?

Disadvantages of Being a Cop

Being a police officer can be dangerous.

You will often not know how your day looks like.

You will see really bad and sad things during your career.

Emotional burden can be enormous.

You will have to make difficult decisions.

You may get fired.