Metro Police and Traffic Learnership 2025 – Apply Now for Paid Training with the City of Cape Town

There is a fantastic chance for unemployed youth in Cape Town between the ages of 18 and 34: beginning in June 2025, the City of Cape Town will offer a fully financed Metro Police and Traffic Learnership program.

This 18-month paid training initiative gives you the chance to earn while you learn — with the goal of preparing you for a career in law enforcement. If you meet the criteria and are ready to take on a physically demanding, rewarding path of public service, this could be your chance to step into a future with purpose.

This article breaks down everything you need to know about the program, who it’s for, what to expect, and how to apply.

What Is the Metro Police and Traffic Learnership?

The Metro Police and Traffic Learnership is a structured, 18-month training program run by the City of Cape Town’s Public Safety Training College. It’s designed for unemployed youth who are committed to building a future in law enforcement, focusing specifically on Road Traffic Law Enforcement and Law Enforcement Skills.

Participants will be trained, evaluated, and mentored while receiving a stipend of R34.91 per hour — a meaningful income during the program.

Who Can Apply?

This opportunity is strictly for unemployed South African youth who live within the Cape Town municipal boundaries. You must meet the following minimum criteria:

Basic Eligibility:

• Age: 18 to under 35 years old
• Education: Grade 12 (matric) with certified proof
• Employment status: Must be currently unemployed
• Driving licence: Valid Code B (manual transmission)

Physical and Medical Requirements:

• Physically and medically fit for strenuous training
• Mental resilience and ability to manage stress
• No visible tattoos when wearing any part of the uniform

This program is also open to students and Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) staff who meet the eligibility criteria.

Compulsory Fitness Assessments:

These are elimination tests — fail one, and you cannot proceed to the next:

• Running 2.4 km takes 11 minutes for men and 13 minutes for women.
• Push-ups: 30 in 60 seconds
• Sit-ups: 30 in 60 seconds
• Dead load carry: 2 x 25kg over 100m
• Tyre drag: 20m
• 20m shuttle runs: 10 in 60 seconds
• Wall climb: 2.1m
• Motorcycle reach test
• Comfort swim: unassisted, any stroke

Due to these intense requirements, pregnant individuals cannot participate in the assessments.

What to Expect if You’re Shortlisted

• A written test
• A formal interview
• A full medical evaluation by the City
• Drug testing at an official City testing venue
• A driver assessment
• Criminal record checks (no third-party clearance certificates accepted)

In addition, expect to be subject to the City of Cape Town’s Code of Conduct for trainees and pass all unit standards to successfully complete the program.

Key Conditions to Be Aware Of

Before you apply, be aware of the following important rules:

• This is not a guarantee of a permanent job after completion.
• Applicants with chronic illness or physical limitations may be excluded due to the training’s intensity.
• You must be willing to:
  • Work in uniform and in all weather
  • Work shifts and be rotated anywhere in the city or surrounding areas
  • Maintain ongoing physical and medical fitness
  • Undergo regular psychological evaluations
  • Participate in additional mandatory training
• You may not engage in other employment or business without prior written approval from the City.

How Much Will You Be Paid?

Learners will receive an hourly allowance of R34.91, which helps cover basic expenses while you’re training full-time.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

You must apply online only — no walk-ins, emails, or hard copies will be accepted.

Step 1: Create an e-Services account

Visit: www.capetown.gov.za

You’ll need a PC (not a smartphone) to complete the application. If you don’t have internet access, visit a Smart Cape library. You must be a library member to use the computers — bring your ID and proof of residence to register.

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

Prepare digital copies of:

• Your South African ID (certified, no affidavits)
• Your matric certificate (recently certified)

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

• External candidates: Apply at capetown.gov.za/careers
• Internal staff: Use the SAP portal

Deadline to apply: 8 May 2025
Late applications will not be considered.

Shortlisted applicants will receive an SMS or phone call with details about when and where to report for the tests. Bring your own gear, food, and water — the process will be physically demanding.

Apply here for metro police and traffic learnership

Important Reminders

• If you don’t hear back within three months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
• There is no job guarantee — passing the program is a prerequisite but does not ensure employment.
• Canvassing is strictly prohibited — any attempt to influence the hiring process will disqualify you.

Final Thoughts: Is This Opportunity Right for You?

If you’re determined, physically fit, and passionate about making a difference in your community, the Metro Police and Traffic Learnership offers a real chance to gain valuable training, experience, and a stepping stone into public service. This isn’t an easy path — but it’s one that can open doors if you’re ready to rise to the challenge.