SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Traffic Officer 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97639  Occupational Certificate: Traffic Officer 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner-SASSETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security  Safety in Society 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  406  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
121688  Occupational Diploma: Traffic Officer  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  371  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Traffic Officer.

A Traffic Officer performs Road Traffic Law Enforcement duties to ensure a safe and secure traffic environment for all road users on public roads in order to prevent road crashes (vehicle collision) and trauma.
A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Plan and conduct road traffic safety operations, including conducting a chase and providing escort services.
  • Capture and collate evidence for court.
  • Evaluate the roadworthiness of vehicles and applicants for leaner's licences and driving licences.

    Rationale:
    Broader consultation with institutions of higher learning, South African Police Services (SAPS), provincial departments of transport, metros, and other transport agencies was done by the Road Traffic Management Cooperation (RTMC) in collaboration with Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) and Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) prior to the development of the qualification. As a result of all these engagements, this Traffic Officers' qualification was developed. The qualification provides knowledge and skills required by learners operating within the road traffic fraternity.

    This qualification equips new learners and those who are currently employed within the sector with knowledge and skills to competently function as traffic law enforcement officers. Individuals operating in this sector, such as Traffic Officers, examiners for driving licences, and examiners of vehicles will benefit from this qualification.

    Qualified learners will have a competitive advantage to gain employment within the road traffic fraternity. The industry will benefit from the employment of qualified learners who will perform their jobs effectively and thereby contribute efficiently to the economy, enhance service delivery, and also play a meaningful role in the reduction of road crashes on our roads.

    This qualification will enhance professionalisation of the traffic fraternity by addressing the current shortcomings relating to training within the South African road traffic management fraternity.

    This qualification is in support of the Road Traffic Management Corporation's endeavours to create a new 21st century cadre of traffic personnel, who will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively know and understand the complexity of road safety in the context of the Safe System Approach.

    It is envisaged that learners who successfully complete this qualification will be able to progress and to be eligible for promotion to higher occupations such as superintendent, crash investigator and traffic manager. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related Curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of results or certifying a work experience record.

    Entry Requirements:
  • An NQF Level 4 with mathematical literacy.

    RPL:
  • Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant entry requirements. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill:

    Modules: Knowledge Modules:
  • 541201000-KM-01, General orientation, at NQF Level 04, Credits 3.
  • 541201000-KM-02, Applied English Communication, at NQF Level 05, Credits 10.
  • 541201000-KM-03, Professionalism and Practice, at NQF Level 06, Credits 8.
  • 541201000-KM-04, National Road Traffic Act, at NQF Level 06, Credits 56.
  • 541201000-KM-05, Additional Road Traffic Law Enforcement Legislation, at NQF Level 06, Credits 12.
  • 541201000-KM-06, Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act, at NQF Level 06, Credits 4.
  • 541201000-KM -07, other relevant Legislation, at NQF Level 06, Credits 12.
  • 541201000-KM-08, Criminal Law, at NQF Level 07, Credits 34.
  • 541201000-KM-09, Criminal Procedure, at NQF Level 07, Credits 34.
  • 541201000-KM-10, Introduction to Traffic Criminology, at NQF Level 05, Credits 4.
  • 541201000-KM-11, Road Safety Education and Road Safety Systems, at NQF Level 06, Credits 6.
  • 541201000-KM-12, Basic Crash Investigation, at NQF Level 06, Credits 8.
  • 541201000-KM-13, Firearm Control Act, at NQF Level 05, Credits 3.
  • 541201000-KM-14, Handle and use a firearm in a law enforcement environment, at NQF Level 05, Credits 3.
  • 541201000-KM-15, Anti-corruption and other related legislation, at NQF Level 06, Credits 5.
    Total number of Credits for Knowledge Modules: 202.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 541201000-PM-01, Ensure road safety on public roads, at NQF Level 05, Credits 10.
  • 541201000-PM-02, Apply tactical survival techniques, at NQF Level 05, Credits 10.
  • 541201000-PM-03, Execute law enforcement and other related duties, at NQF Level 05, Credits 9.
  • 541201000-PM-04, Execute Advanced Driving Skills, at NQF Level 05, Credits 9.
  • 541201000-PM-05, Maintain discipline, at NQF Level 05, Credits 5.
  • 541201000-PM-06, Tactically use a firearm in appropriate situation/s, at NQF Level 05, Credits 8.
  • 541201000-PM-07, Examine vehicles for fitness, at NQF Level 05, Credits 25.
  • 541201000-PM-08, Examine applicants for learners' license and driving license, at NQF Level 04, Credits 8.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 84.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 541201000-WM-01, Processes of regulating free flow of traffic on public roads, at NQF Level 06, Credits 60.
  • 541201000-WM-02, Processes of responding to and managing incidents, at NQF Level 06, Credits 60.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 120. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Execute tactical survival skills in conducting road traffic safety operations in respect of road traffic legislation.
    2. Conduct a high speed chase taking into consideration the safety of road users.
    3. Evaluate the roadworthiness of vehicles against applicable legislation and set national standards and make the appropriate findings.
    4. Evaluate applicants for learner's licences and driving licences against applicable legislation and set national standards; and make the appropriate findings.
    5. Conduct law enforcement activities according to relevant legislation and standard operating procedures with the desired legal outcome.
    6. Conduct escort activities in accordance with relevant legislation and standard operating procedures. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The flow of traffic is analysed and the best solutions are applied.
  • Data from an incident scene is obtained, analysed, interpreted and communicated effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Tactical stop and approach techniques are applied in a law enforcement environment.
  • The correct safety method for the use of and handling of a firearm is analysed and applied during a day and night operations.
  • Target is identified, categorised and hit accurately using different tactical shooting positions in terms of set standards and procedures.
  • Unlawful conduct is identified in the context of relevant legislation and information is communicated effectively both verbally and in writing according to applicable legislation.
  • Organisational etiquette and protocol is applied as per standard operation procedures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Road environment is analysed and interpreted in the context of road safety when high-speed offensive driving techniques are applied.
  • Driving skills related to vehicle dynamics are applied.
  • Simulated tactical pursuit techniques are applied in a law enforcement environment.
  • Command instructions are interpreted and are compliant with standard operating procedures as demonstrated.
  • Communication protocols are applied or adhered to in accordance with standard operating procedures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Motor vehicles are evaluated for compliance with legislation and set standards.
  • Motor vehicles, systems and components are assessed and evaluated according to applicable legislation and set standards.
  • Technical compliance related to the roadworthiness of the vehicle is analysed in terms of relevant legislation and national standards.
  • Roadworthiness results are concluded and the status is certified.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Prescribed administrative and operating procedures are applied in terms of legislation applicable to learners' and driving licences.
  • The prescribed procedures and standards are applied in terms of legislation to conclude the outcome of the learner's licence test.
  • The prescribed procedures and standards are applied in terms of legislation to conclude the outcome of the driving licence yard and road tests in respect of a light motor vehicle.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • An understanding of the applicable legislation relating to traffic safety is demonstrated.
  • Applied competency is illustrated in relation to synthesising and articulating legal arguments in written and verbal form in a road traffic environment.
  • Data is collected and analysed and presented as evidence in a court of law through effective written and verbal communication.
  • Unlawful conduct is identified in the context of relevant legislation and arrest is executed according to applicable legislation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Escort activities are planned.
  • Appropriate and possible alternative routes are analysed, assessed and identified.
  • Possible high-risk areas and mitigating factors along the routes are identified and assessed.
  • Stakeholders are briefed and debriefed about escort activities.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated formative assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide the learners on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entry into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated summative assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant OCTO Assessment Quality Partner, is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The following countries have been chosen for this study as the qualifications offered compares favourably with that of South Africa.
  • Australia.
  • New Zealand.
  • United Kingdom.

    Australia and New Zealand offer a qualification called Police Officer Code 441312. The purpose of this qualification is to maintain public order, and enforce laws by investigating crimes, patrolling public areas and arresting suspected offenders. The New Zealand police also have responsibility for traffic and commercial vehicle enforcement as well as other key responsibilities including protection of dignitaries and matters of national security. The Australian traffic police's responsibilities include, amongst others, traffic enforcement.

    Tasks offered by the Australian qualification include:
  • Investigating and prosecuting offences committed in areas such as organised, corporate and computer crime, environmental offences, drug trafficking, fraud, counterfeiting and terrorism.
  • Securing and examining scenes of crimes and accidents to locate and obtain evidence for analysis.
  • Protecting witnesses and investigating official corruption.
  • Maintaining public order and safety.
  • Patrolling assigned areas to minimise potential for public disturbance and crime.
  • Investigating accidents, crimes, minor offences and citizens' complaints, gathering evidence, and pursuing, arresting and interviewing suspected offenders.
  • Testing persons suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and issuing infringement notices for traffic offences.
  • Directing and re-routing traffic at congested areas.
  • Attending community meetings and answering inquiries from the public where necessary.
  • Providing advice and assistance to victims of crime and their families.
  • Maintaining records and preparing reports.

    At least three years' relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

    The United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland):
    The United Kingdom offers a Diploma in Traffic Management. The purpose of this qualification is to develop the traffic monitoring and management skills and knowledge that learners need in the traffic control room or on the road, which also compares to the responsibilities of the South African Traffic Officer who performs Road Traffic Law Enforcement duties to ensure a safe and secure traffic environment for all road users on public roads in order to prevent road crashes and trauma. This qualification has been developed for Traffic Officers and traffic control room staff.

    The two pathways available in this qualification include:
  • Diploma in Traffic Management (Control Room).
  • Diploma in Traffic Management (On-Road).

    Mandatory units and learners can choose their optional units from a wide range of topics including:
  • Respond to traffic management incidents - bronze command.
  • Remove vehicles and obstructions from the road network.
  • Preparing for the coaching role.
  • Control tunnel systems and equipment on the road network.
  • Manage traffic on inter-urban roads using traffic management technology.

    Entry Requirements:
    There are no formal entry requirements for learners undertaking this qualification. However, centres must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the qualification successfully. This qualification is not approved for use by learners under the age of 18.

    Conclusion:
    The responsibilities compares well with the South African Traffic Officer who performs Road Traffic Law Enforcement duties to ensure a safe and secure traffic environment for all road users on public roads in order to prevent road crashes and trauma.

    Overview Similarities:
    It was found that the South African qualification is equivalent to the international standards and that the purpose of the qualification with regards to the three countries used for the study corresponds with the one offered in South Africa.

    Differences:
    Differences have been found to be in the entry requirements, NQF Levels and unit standards of the qualification and some of the tasks, for example, attending community meetings and answering inquiries from the public where necessary, etc.
    The South African Traffic Officer Qualification compares favourably with that of the above chosen countries and therefore it is on a par with the training of traffic personnel in some counties worldwide. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates horizontally to:
  • 72643, National Diploma: Traffic Safety Management, at NQF Level 6, Credits 360.
  • 50204, National Diploma: Metropolitan and Traffic Policing, at NQF Level 6, Credits 300.

    This qualification articulates vertically to:
  • 72463, Bachelor of Technology: Traffic Safety Management, at NQF Level 7, Credits 480.
  • 79526, Advanced Diploma: Traffic and Metropolitan Policing, at NQF Level 7, Credits 140. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for external assessment:
    In order to qualify for the external summative assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of Statements of Results and Work Experience, including foundational learning competence or equivalent.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
    Learners must satisfy the entry requirements as stipulated in the applicable National Policy Document for Traffic Training Centres.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant Curriculum on the OCTO website. The Curriculum title and code is: 541201000, Traffic Officer.

    In accordance with the National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act 93 of 1996), training providers must be recognised by the Road Traffic Management Corporation {RTMC) before approval of accreditation. No training providers will be accredited by the OCTO to provide this qualification without the prior recommendation of the RTMC.

    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
    This is not a trade. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.