Commissioner of Oaths Police Station

Direct Answer: Can the Police Help With This Document?

Yes, the police can help you commission affidavits and certify true copies of official documents. In South Africa, police officers stationed at South African Police Service (SAPS) branches serve as ex officio Commissioners of Oaths under the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths Act 16 of 1963.

You can walk into the Community Service Centre (CSC) at your nearest police station to have an affidavit at police station counters administered, or to certify documents at police station desks.

Crucial Rule: If you need an affidavit commissioned, do not sign the document beforehand. You must sign it directly in front of the police officer acting as the commissioner.

What to Bring Before Visiting the Police Station

Requirements

To ensure a smooth visit, you must present valid proof of identity. SAPS officers cannot certify copies or commission sworn statements without verifying who you are first.

• Original Identification: Bring your original green barcoded South African ID book, Smart ID card, valid temporary ID certificate, or valid passport.
• Clean Physical Copies: Bring pre-printed paper copies of any documents you need certified.
• Original Documents: Bring the original versions of all documents being certified.

Documents or Details to Prepare

• Make Your Own Copies First: SAPS police stations do not provide public photocopying or printing services. You must print or copy your documents at a local print shop, internet café, or retailer before visiting the station.
• Match Originals to Copies: Officers are required to compare paper copies directly against original documents. Copies will not be stamped if you fail to present the original.
• Draft Your Statement: If you need a sworn affidavit (e.g., for proof of residence, lost item, or informal employment declaration), write or print out the full text in advance. Leave the signature and date lines completely blank.

Official Source to Verify

While SAPS Community Service Centres offer walk-in services, local station contact details and operating conditions can vary. You can verify official contact numbers, station addresses, and administrative support channels via the official SAPS Contact and Information Portal.

Step-by-Step Process at the Station

1. Locate the Community Service Centre (CSC): Upon arrival at the police station, head to the main CSC desk (often referred to as the front client service area).
2. Present Your Identification and Originals: Inform the officer on duty that you require a commissioner of oaths for document certification or an affidavit. Hand over your original ID and original documents alongside your paper copies.
3. Take the Oath or Affirmation (For Affidavits): For an affidavit, the officer will ask if you understand the statement, if you have any religious objection to taking an oath, and if you consider the oath binding on your conscience.
4. Sign the Document: Sign and date the document in the physical presence of the officer.
5. Receive the Official Stamp: The officer will affix the SAPS Commissioner of Oaths stamp, sign, and note their rank, force number, and station name.

Costs, Availability and Commissioner of Oaths Notes

• Costs: Commissioning an affidavit and certifying document copies at any SAPS police station is 100% free of charge. Under South African law, no commissioner of oaths at a police station is permitted to request or accept payment for these administrative services.
• Service Availability: Community Service Centres operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, administrative tasks like certification may be delayed during peak hours or when officers are responding to active criminal cases and emergencies. It is recommended to call ahead or visit during quieter daytime hours.
• Alternative Options: If you are exploring who can certify documents South Africa or who can commission an affidavit South Africa outside of police stations, you can also use other designated officials. Practising attorneys, bank managers, postmasters, and senior school principals are also legally designated to act as a commissioner of oaths South Africa.

Related Affidavit or Certification Pages

Related Police Services

If your visit to a commissioner of oaths police station desk is part of a broader legal or safety reporting procedure, review our dedicated guides to ensure you bring the correct documentation:

• How to Report a Crime in South Africa — Guidance on opening a criminal case file, obtaining a MASP case number, and what to expect during a statement intake.
• Emergency Numbers South Africa — Crucial contact channels for national SAPS dispatch (10111), mobile emergency services (112), and localized response units.

FAQs Before You Go

Can I get help with commissioner of oaths police station services at any police station?

Yes. Every operational SAPS police station has officers on duty who function as ex officio commissioners of oaths to assist members of the public with document certification and sworn statements.

What documents must I bring?

You must bring your original identity document (Smart ID, ID Book, or Passport), your original documents (e.g., certificates, utility bills), pre-printed paper copies to be stamped, and any un-signed affidavit drafts.

Is police station certification free?

Yes, certification of document copies and commissioning of affidavits at SAPS police stations is entirely free of charge.

Do I need an appointment?

No, appointments are not required. Services are provided on a walk-in basis at the Community Service Centre counter. Keep in mind that emergency police operations take precedence over routine administrative requests.