So, you wanna rock the badge and keep the streets of Mzansi safe? That’s big vibes! Whether you’re in Jozi, Durbs, or CPT, becoming a Metro Police officer is not just about directing traffic or busting rule-breakers; it’s about serving the people with heart, guts, and real gees.
If you’re keen to level up and make a real impact, then this blog is your ultimate plug. Let’s break it down for you, step by step – no skinner, just the real deal.
Table of Contents
Metro Police Application Process 2025
Metro Police officers differ from SAPS (South African Police Service) in that they work mainly on:
The departments operate in major municipalities and are responsible for enforcing municipal bylaws, traffic regulations, and crime prevention.
They do not investigate crimes but collaborate with SAPS when needed.
Basic Requirements to Apply
To qualify as a Metro Police officer, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be at least 18 years old (some departments prefer 21+)
- Have a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate
- Have no criminal record
- Be medically and physically fit
- Have a valid South African driver’s license (Code B)
- TIP: Being able to swim, having first aid skills, and having a solid community reputation can boost your chances.
Apply Through a Municipality or Metro Police Department
Metro Police training is coordinated by municipal departments; they only recruit when there are available intakes, and this happens annually or as needed.
METRO POLICE DEPARTMENTS
The official Municipal Websites:
- Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) – www.joburg.org.za
- eThekwini Metro Police (Durban) – www.durban.gov.za
- City of Cape Town Traffic Services – www.capetown.gov.za
- Tshwane Metro Police (TMPD), Pretoria – www.tshwane.gov.za
SA Metro Police Application Date
The next official Metro Police recruitment intake in South Africa is scheduled as follows
TMPD will officially open applications in July 2025 for around 200 recruits only.
- Specific dates, forms, and requirements will be shared on Tshwane’s official website, social media platforms, and on local community notices and newspapers.
- This marks the first recruitment since 2015, with annual intakes promised going forward.
Johannesburg, Cape Town, and eThekwini also run Metro Police intakes, but they haven’t disclosed official dates yet.
The Selection Process
If your application is successful, you’ll go through:
- Physical fitness tests (running, push-ups, sit-ups)
- Psychometric assessments
- Medical checks
- Background checks (for criminal record)
- Interview panel
- TIP: Stay fit and practice beforehand. Many candidates are dropped at the fitness stage.
After Completing Metro Police Training
Successful applicants are sent to an accredited Metro Police Academy, where you’ll receive training in:
- Firearms handling
- Traffic law
- By-law enforcement
- Physical training
- Public interaction and ethics
- DURATION: Training typically lasts between 6 to 12 months, depending on the department.
Get Deployed and Start Your Career
After training and passing all exams, you’ll be deployed to a region within the municipality. Your first few months are usually under supervision before you become a fully operational officer.
Good luck!