The ECDOT Traffic Bursary is offered by the Eastern Cape Department of Transport to recruit and train traffic officers from youth living in the Eastern Cape. 

It supports applicants who wish to pursue a Diploma in Traffic Law Enforcement and related fields. 

About the ECDOT Traffic Bursary

This bursary programme is specifically designed to address shortages of traffic officers in the province. 

The department offers bursaries that fund training for a Diploma in Traffic (NQF level 4 or 5) and a one-year training contract. 

Recent rounds mention 150 places across districts.

Which fields of study are eligible?

Eligible study is a Diploma in Traffic Law Enforcement or Traffic Officer training. 

For example, the programme is for students aiming to complete a Diploma in Traffic and then work as traffic officers in the Eastern Cape.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must meet these criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen residing in the Eastern Cape province.
  2. Be unemployed (in recent cycles) and not older than ~35 years.
  3. Have completed Matric (Grade 12) or equivalent certificate.
  4. Hold a valid Code B driver’s licence (manual transmission) in recent rounds.
  5. No criminal record and medically fit for traffic officer duties.
  6. Be ready to enter into a one-year bursary contract and training programme.

What does the bursary cover?

The bursary covers training costs for the Diploma in Traffic, accommodation, meals, study materials and uniform (in recent rounds). 

Successful applicants enter a one-year training programme combining classroom and field work.

How to apply

Here’s how you should apply:

  1. Visit the ECDOT website or the department’s e-recruitment platform when the call opens.
  2. Complete the application form and attach certified documents such as ID copy, Matric certificate, driver’s licence, proof of residence, CV.
  3. Submit your application before the closing date via the method indicated (online or as specified).
  4. Prepare for assessments: driving test, fitness test, medical and criminal record check.

What the selection committee will consider

Selection is based on eligibility (residence, age, licence, Matric), documentation completeness, absence of criminal record, physical and driving fitness, and readiness for a traffic officer role.

Closing Date

For recent rounds the closing date was 10 November 2023.

For the 2026 cycle you must check the official ECDOT bursary advertisement when it releases to confirm the current deadline.

Missing or late applications are usually not accepted.

1. Who can apply for the ECDOT Traffic Bursary?+
South African citizens residing in the Eastern Cape, unemployed, with Matric complete and under about 35 years old may apply.
2. What qualification does this bursary fund?+
It funds a Diploma in Traffic Law Enforcement (NQF 4 or 5) and includes a one-year training programme to become a traffic officer.
3. What are the driver’s licence requirements?+
You must hold a valid Code B driver’s licence with manual transmission in most recent cycles.
4. Does having a criminal record disqualify me?+
Yes. A clean criminal record is required for this law-enforcement training bursary.
5. What costs are covered by the bursary?+
Accommodation, meals, study materials, uniform and the training programme costs are covered in recent bursary rounds.
6. What is the closing date for the 2026 intake?+
The closing date for past rounds was 10 November. Applicants should check the official 2026 advert for the exact date.
7. How do I apply?+
Register on the ECDOT e-recruitment platform or visit their website, complete the bursary form and submit with certified documents before the closing date.
8. Do I need to commit to working for the department after training?+
Yes. A one-year bursary contract includes training and subsequent employment as a traffic officer for the department.
9. What assessments will I face during selection?+
You’ll need to pass a driving fitness test, medical examination, criminal record check and physical fitness assessment.
10. Where can I get more information and the application form?+
Visit the ECDOT website (www.ectransport.gov.za) or contact the department’s HR district offices listed in the bursary advert.

🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist

Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.

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