Overview
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) recruits through public adverts, not a fixed national exam. When a round opens, applicants apply in person at their nearest police station, and shortlisted candidates are called for interviews.
This registry entry names both the ZRP and the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA). No readable source on ZNA recruitment was found, so this page covers the ZRP only. The ZRP website could not be opened (its security certificate failed verification), so the facts come from two news reports of the ZRP's adverts for 2026 and 2025. Check the ZRP's own notice before applying.
Who can apply
General duty constables, 2026 round
Zimbabwean citizens who are physically and medically fit.
Aged 18 to 25: at least 18 by 11 June 2026 and not older than 25 by 20 September 2026.
At least five Ordinary Level passes, including Mathematics, English Language and one other science subject, obtained in no more than two sittings.
Men at least 1.65 m tall (barefoot) and at least 55 kg. Women at least 1.58 m tall, with weight in proportion to height.
Technical and artisan posts, 2026 round
These are aged 18 to 30, and cover construction artisans and technicians, such as bricklayers, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, welders, civil engineering technicians and quantity surveyors, and tailor technicians in industrial clothing and fashion design. They need a relevant national certificate, diploma, degree or Journeyman Class One certificate, depending on the post, and at least five O Level passes (Grade C or better) including English and Mathematics. Two years of practical industrial experience is an advantage.
Selection
Applicants must be ready to complete a 5 km road run within 20 minutes (men) or 25 minutes (women). Only shortlisted candidates are contacted about interview dates and venues.
Training
General duty constables train for one year at Mkushi Police Academy under the 2026 advert. The 2025 report described a two-year diploma in police studies at the same academy, which the report said was an affiliate of the University of Zimbabwe. Check the current advert for the training length.
Important dates
The 2026 round was advertised in a press statement dated 11 June 2026, and applications closed on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. The 2025 round closed on 29 April 2025.
Fees
The ZRP warned that it does not charge fees or use third parties for recruitment, and that fraudulent recruitment adverts circulate on social media.
How to apply
For the 2026 round:
Write an application by hand, with a life history of 450 to 500 words and at least two contact numbers.
Attach a copy of your identity document and certified copies of your educational or professional qualifications. Technical and artisan applicants also attach a detailed CV.
Hand it in to the Officer in Charge of the nearest police station by the closing date.
After the exam
Successful recruits were listed as receiving free uniforms, free medical and dental care, housing and transport allowances, leave and chances of further study.
Preparation tips
Practise the 5 km run against the 20-minute and 25-minute limits.
Check your O Level results against the subject and sittings requirements before applying.
Prepare your handwritten letter and certified copies early, since the window in 2026 was only about two weeks.
What is the age limit for ZRP constables?
In the 2026 round the limit was 18 to 25 for general duty constables. The 2025 round gave 18 to 22. Limits change from round to round, so check the current advert.
Does the ZRP charge a recruitment fee?
No. The ZRP said it charges no fees and uses no third parties for recruitment.