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The South African Police Service (SAPS) Assessments

    • 11 tests |
    • 154 questions

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is the national police service of the Republic of South Africa, with 1154 police stations divided across provincial borders. The head office is based at the Wachthuis Building in Pretoria, and SAPS can trace its roots back to 1885, more than 100 years before the RSA was recognized as a republic.

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SAPS physical Fitness Test

The physical fitness test is an important step in the recruitment process, and if you get through the psychometric testing you will be invited to take a test. Each province will have specific requirements, but the basics are as follows:

  • Endurance: 2.4km run in 13 minutes (men)/15 minutes 30 seconds (women)

  • Strength: 30 push-ups in 60 seconds, 45 sit-ups in 60 seconds (men)/21 push-ups in 60 seconds, 31 sit-ups in 60 seconds (women)

  • Speed/Agility: 10 shuttle runs in 60 seconds (men)/10 shuttle runs in 70 seconds (women)

The purpose of these tests is to ensure that the candidate is in great physical shape so that they can deal with the rigors of the role on a daily basis.

SAPS Medical Check

During the medical check, several things are being tested. Blood tests could be used to detect the presence of diseases, especially transferable ones. Drug tests will also be completed. During the medical examination, vision, hearing, and lung function are assessed, and there will be a discussion about your medical history and that of your immediate family.

You will also be required to undergo a psychological evaluation to complete the medical checks for suitability in the role.

SAPS background check

If you pass all these tests, you will receive a message from SAPS to tell you that you have been successful. Then, you will be required to undergo stringent background checks, including the collection of biometric details like fingerprints and DNA. Background checks are detailed and can include data about your immediate family, spouse and any children.

If all this is positive, then you will be invited to begin your basic training at a local academy.

Practice Aptitude Tests is not associated with The South African Police Service (SAPS). We provide preparation services for The South African Police Service (SAPS) psychometric tests. Our tests are not designed to be identical to any style, employer or industry. Visit https://www.saps.gov.za/careers/careers.php to find out more.

Sample South African Police Service (SAPS) Tests question Test your knowledge!

When considering strategies to enhance community policing efforts, which of the following would most likely increase trust and cooperation between the community and the police?

  • Implementing regular town hall meetings to address community concerns.
  • Increasing the number of traffic citations issued in the community.
  • Assigning more plainclothes officers to conduct surveillance.
  • Reducing the visibility of police patrols in the community.

While conducting a routine patrol, an officer hears a distress call stating 'We have a 10-33 in progress at the old warehouse on 5th Street.' Given that a 10-33 code signifies emergency assistance needed, what should the officer's immediate response be?

  • Head to the location as quickly and safely as possible
  • Continue the routine patrol as the message is not clear
  • Check in with the headquarters to request further instructions
  • Report the distress call to the fire department

An investigation team recovered stolen goods valued at R12,000, R15,000, and R23,000 from three different suspects. Assuming these values represent the only recoveries for this case, calculate the average value of the goods recovered per suspect.

  • R16,666.67
  • R14,000.00
  • R17,000.00
  • R50,000.00

In a leadership training session, recruits are given a scenario where they must decide between upholding protocol strictly or making an exception for humanitarian reasons. The instructor explains that neither option is outright wrong, but the choice reflects their leadership style. This exercise is designed to test the recruits’ ability to:

  • Resolve ethical dilemmas.
  • Recall police codes and regulations.
  • Utilize defensive tactics.
  • Investigate complex cases.

An off-duty officer witnesses a brawl outside a restaurant. While assessing the situation, four individuals are shouting, and another is lying on the ground unconscious. What is the first action the officer should take in this scenario?

  • Call for backup from the nearest police station.
  • Join the brawl to restrain the aggressors.
  • Secure a weapon and stand guard.
  • Immediately administer first aid to the unconscious individual.

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South African Police Service (SAPS) Tests Tips

1Get Familiar with the Format

Before anything else, understand the structure of SAPS tests. Familiarity with the test format will save you from surprises on the big day and help manage your time effectively during the test.

2Practice Under Exam Conditions

Replicate the environment of the actual test as closely as possible when you practice. Time yourself, minimize distractions, and avoid using study aids unless necessary to emulate the pressure of the real experience.

3Review the Basics

Brush up on basic arithmetic, logical reasoning, and verbal comprehension skills. Since these fundamentals form the backbone of many aptitude tests, a solid grasp of them can significantly improve your performance.

4Stay Calm and Focus

Aptitude tests can be challenging, so it’s essential to stay calm. Read each question thoroughly, answer to the best of your ability, and don’t let difficult questions undermine your confidence.

5Use Practice Tests to Identify Weak Areas

Take advantage of the wealth of practice tests on Practice Aptitude Tests. They’re an excellent way to pinpoint your weaker areas that need additional work before the real test day arrives.

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South African Police Service (SAPS) Tests FAQs

What are the SAPS tests?

The SAPS tests are a series of assessments designed to measure the cognitive abilities and personality traits of potential recruits to ensure they are the right fit for law enforcement duties.

Are the SAPS tests hard?

Like any test, the SAPS tests can be challenging, particularly if you’re not prepared. However, with proper preparation and practice, you can improve your chances of performing well.

How do I prepare for SAPS tests?

Preparing for SAPS tests requires diligence and practice. The best way to prepare is by taking practice tests, replicating exam conditions, and using Practice Aptitude Tests to enhance your readiness.

How long does the recruitment process take at SAPS?

The timeline of the SAPS recruitment process can vary. It’s designed to be thorough, ensuring only the best candidates are selected, and consists of several stages including testing, interviews, and practical assessments.

What are SAPS's core values?

SAPS’s core values include upholding the Constitution of South Africa, ensuring the community feels safe, and maintaining high levels of professionalism, integrity, and respect.