A Police Officer serves to maintain law and order in local areas by protecting members of the public and their property, preventing crime, reducing the fear of crime and improving the quality of life for all citizens.
The new requirements to become a police officer in South Africa
Police minister Bheki Cele has published the South African Police Service Amendment Bill for public comment, with the legislation set to introduce a number of additional requirements before a person is allowed to become a police officer in South Africa.
While the SAPS already has requirements in place for physical fitness, mental fitness and education, the draft bill proposes a number of additional considerations which focus on the applicant’s background.
Integrity test
Under the proposed changes, every person that is newly recruited or considered for appointment to the SAPS as a police officer shall be subjected to an integrity test before appointment.
The draft bill defines an integrity test as a personality test designed to verify whether a candidate is honest and dependable. This test may entail:
The taking of fingerprints;
Taking a buccal sample (cheek swab) to be analysed for a DNA profile;
A polygraph test (a lie detector test);
Financial disclosures;
Disclosure of income and expenses;
Membership of entities such as boards, directorships and institutions;
Determination of contracts with the state.
The draft bill states that no person under consideration can be appointed in the SAPS unless an integrity test has been successfully completed.
The integrity test must be performed by the SAPS division responsible for Human Resources.
Lifestyle audit
The bill also proposes that a lifestyle audit be performed on any member where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that they are living above their income.
The bill defines a “lifestyle audit” as a comparison of known income of a person with his or her standard of living.
This would be to determine whether:
There are gaps and indicators that a person is living above his or her means; or
The person is abusing power or influence for personal gain at that time or a later stage.
This lifestyle audit would entail the disclosure of income and expenses, membership of entities such as boards, directorships and institutions, and determination of contracts with the state.
The audit must be performed by the SAPS’ intelligence division. Any member of the SAPS may also be subjected to drug testing.
In addition to the above, the bill states that a comparative search may be made into any official database in the SAPS in respect of the person whose integrity test or lifestyle audit is being performed.
Below are steps to Become A Police Officer In South Africa
Successfully pass a background check
You can expect any law enforcement agency you’re applying for to conduct a number of checks into your background, including criminal history and even credit history. While this isn’t literally the first step to becoming a police officer, it is the first one you’ll need to consider before you get too invested in the process.
Acquire a degree or academy training
The requirements for this step will vary substantially depending on the state in which you plan on becoming a police officer. Some states do not require their officers to be college-educated, even if they may prefer it. Other states, like Minnesota, an Associate’s degree or equivalent training is one of the requirements to become a police officer.
Generally speaking, the training process for aspiring police officers follows two routes:
Completing training by earning a two- or four-year degree in Criminal Justice or similar field from a Peace Officer Standings and Training (POST)-certified college or university, or
Completing training through a government-approved police academy or training program.
Pass the licensing exam
The next step to becoming a police officer is to earn a passing score on your state’s police licensing board exam. Your education and training will prepare you to take the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) exam.
Each state has its own licensing board, so the tests will also vary. But generally speaking, most POST exams cover topics like: practical application and techniques, civil and criminal law, community policing, victims’ rights and management and communication.
Undergo psychological evaluation
Prior to becoming a police officer, law enforcement agencies will likely evaluate recruits for psychological stability and mental fitness. These psych tests vary, but generally include lengthy written exams and possibly a one-on-one interview with a psychologist.
How long do you study to be a police officer in South Africa?
When chosen for the trials, the six-months training usually takes place at one of the Saps training colleges around the country either in Bishop Lavis, Wentworth, Pretoria or Hamman kraal. Graduates usually have a training period of around three months.
What qualifications do u need to become a police officer In South Africa?
How to Become a Police Officer
Take a college course or get an apprenticeship. According to the National Careers Service, you can take a level 2 or level 3 diploma in public service before applying to the police force.
Apply to a police force.
Take an assessment.
Take a physical exam.
Pass a security background check.
How much do police in South Africa earn?
South African Police Services Jobs by Salary
Job Title | Range | Average |
---|---|---|
Police or Sheriff’s Patrol Officer | Range:R99k – R380k | Average:R241,334 |
Constable | Range:R116k – R211k | Average:R172,047 |
Police Captain | Range:R198k – R466k | Average:R323,884 |
Policeman | Range:R70k – R366k | Average:R209,658 |
Is it hard to become a police officer In South Africa?
Starting a career in the police can be one of the best things you’ll ever do. But being a police officer isn’t for everyone – it’s one of the most challenging careers you can choose, being physically, mentally and emotionally demanding.
What are the dangers of being a police officer In South Africa?
Law enforcement officers face many different dangerous and stressful situations in the line of duty. Some, such as gun violence, are obvious; others dangers (e.g., fatigue) are hidden, but common, and can greatly hinder officer performance. Officer performance is also affected by training and other factors.
How long do you have to study to be a police officer In South Africa?
While police academy programs take only about 6 months, most will require at least an associate degree in order to get accepted. With all things considered, it takes about 2-4 years to become a police officer.
How many hours do police officers work In South Africa?
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 pros and cons of a police officer In South Africa?
Top 10 Being a Police Officer Pros & Cons – Summary List
Being a Police Officer Pros | Being a Police Officer Cons |
---|---|
You learn how to deal with difficult people | Plenty of emotional stress involved |
Police officers have a good fitness level | Your family will worry about you |
Good job prospects | Being a police officer can be stressful |
How hard is the police academy In South Africa?
Most police academies are known to be more difficult than basic training, but it can depend on where you study. Basic training teaches the core skills and knowledge to succeed in a military environment. It requires hard work and determination.