South African Transport Authority invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Traffic Officer Learnership positions. The closing date for applications is 30 September 2026.
What Is a Traffic Officer Learnership?
Becoming a Traffic Officer in South Africa isn’t just about wearing a uniform or directing cars. It’s a path to public service that teaches discipline, integrity, and responsibility. Every year thousands of young people dream of joining traffic colleges, but only a small number win a spot.
If you’re serious about applying for a Traffic Officer Learnership in 2026, you need to start getting ready today—before the ads even appear. This guide shows you what to do so that when applications open, you are prepared in every way: physically, mentally, academically, and with all the paperwork sorted out.
Quick Snapshot: Traffic Officer Learnership 2026
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Career Path | Road Traffic Law Enforcement |
| Training Style | College classes plus on‑the‑ground practice |
| Duration | 12–18 months (varies by province) |
| Qualification | Diploma in Road Traffic and Metropolitan Police Management |
| Result | Potential permanent job with the traffic department |
| Who It’s For | Unemployed South African youth |
| Minimum Education | Grade 12 (Matric) |
| Fitness & Health | Must pass medical and eye tests |
| Application Period | Usually March – September 2026 |
Why Start Now?
Traffic Officer Learnerships are tough to get. Many people get turned away before training starts because of:
- Missing paperwork
- Poor physical fitness
- Failing medical or eye exams
- Criminal records or traffic offences
- Incorrect application details
The difference between a hopeful applicant and a successful candidate is good preparation.
Inside the Learnership
- Classroom learning – You’ll study traffic laws, road safety, and how to handle criminal procedures.
- Physical training – Regular drills, fitness tests, and learning how to stay disciplined.
- Real‑world practice – Setting up roadblocks, checking vehicles, and visiting accident scenes.
You’ll study at accredited traffic colleges and must follow strict rules and perform well. This is serious law‑enforcement training, not a casual hobby.
What You Need to Qualify (General)
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| South African citizenship | Proof you’re a citizen |
| Grade 12 certificate | Your school diploma |
| Code B driving licence (manual preferred) | A valid driving licence that allows manual cars |
| Clean record | No criminal convictions or major traffic fines |
| No visible tattoos in uniform | Keep tattoos covered if required |
| Good English communication | You can speak and write clearly |
| Fit and ready | You can pass a physical and mental fitness test |
| Background checks | You agree to a full screening |
Note: Some areas ask you to already have your driving licence in hand when you apply, not after you’re selected.
Key Dates to Watch (Expected)
| Stage | When it Happens |
|---|---|
| Early provincial intakes | March – April 2026 |
| Metro and municipal intakes | May – June 2026 |
| Late or replacement intakes | July – September 2026 |
| Training starts | August – November 2026 (varies) |
Tip: Most people start preparing after the ads appear. Aim to meet all basic requirements before March 2026.
Getting Ready Without a Company Name
Build Your Physical Fitness
Traffic training demands a strong body. Typical tests include:
- Running 1.5–2.4 km
- Push‑ups and sit‑ups
- Endurance drills
- Quick‑step agility exercises
Start early:
- Jog or brisk walk 3–4 times a week
- Strengthen your core and upper body
- Increase stamina gradually
- Avoid last‑minute crash training
Pass the Medical Checks
You must clear:
- Full medical exam
- Eye test (vision and colour)
- Psychological assessment
Do an eye test early, manage any long‑term health issues, stay away from drugs or alcohol, and keep a healthy routine.
Keep Your Documents Ready
Never wait until the last minute. Prepare certified copies of:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Driving licence
- Updated CV
- Proof of residence
- Recent passport‑size photos
Have both digital files for online applications and hard copies for in‑person submission.
Strengthen Your Application
- Clean your record – Pay any outstanding fines and stay out of trouble.
- Speak well – Practice speaking clearly and confidently; traffic officers talk to many people.
- Show dedication – Join community road safety events, learn more about traffic laws, and understand that a traffic officer’s job is more than issuing fines.
Common Pitfalls
- Applying without meeting basic requirements
- Sending unverified documents
- Using an outdated or messy CV
- Neglecting fitness training
- Missing deadlines
Success comes from discipline, not luck.
How To Stay On Track
- Start early – Begin training and paperwork months before the application opens.
- Keep training steady – Consistent effort beats a burst of late‑night work.
- Stay organized – Keep a checklist of documents and deadlines.
- Watch official sites – Follow government portals for real‑time updates.
- Don’t trust rumours – Rely only on official announcements, not on social media forwards.
Those who succeed are the ones who prepare the most, not the luckiest.
Your Career After the Learnership
A Traffic Officer Learnership can lead to many opportunities:
- Permanent Traffic Officer
- Senior Traffic Officer
- Vehicle examiner
- Driving licence examiner
- Traffic college instructor
- Paths into the Metropolitan Police
With experience and further study, this job offers long‑term stability and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is there an age limit? | Most departments like applicants between 18 and 35, but it can vary. |
| Do I need a licence before applying? | Usually yes—don’t wait until after you’re chosen. |
| Is the learnership paid? | Many programmes give a monthly stipend, but it’s not guaranteed everywhere. |
| Can I apply in more than one province? | Yes, as long as you satisfy each place’s criteria. |
Make 2026 Your Year
Traffic Officer training is hard work, but it gives you purpose, structure, and a respected place in public service.
Start preparing now:
- Get fit
- Get informed
- Get ready
When the 2026 traffic officer learnership ads appear, you won’t be hoping you’re good enough—you will know you’re ready.
Good luck!
