Police Clearance Online – Requirements, Application & Guide

If you are applying for a police clearance in the Philippines, we understand your need to navigate the process smoothly. Whether you are seeking employment, applying for a visa, or fulfilling legal requirements, obtaining a National Police Clearance (NPC) is an essential document.

In this comprehensive guide, all the important information about police clearance has been covered that you need to know, to complete your application.

What is Police Clearance Certificate

A Police Clearance Certificate is an official document that verifies a citizen’s criminal background and history, specifying either a clean background or any criminal history. It is commonly required for

Job
Visa Processes
Other legal Matters

to ensure the person is suitable and trustworthy.

To get this certificate, you can apply for it through local law enforcement agencies, to conduct a thorough background check. The certificate is an important testimonial for employers, immigration officials, and legal authorities to know an individual’s suitability and maintain the safety and integrity of the country.

Requirements of Police Clearance Certificate

Police clearance may be required in the following circumstances to prove a non-criminal identity.

Applying for a foreign permanent residency or visa
For employment in sectors like finance, health department or education.
To work with children or vulnerable populations (sick or old e.g. volunteering for any daycare or old house
For any professional license or approval
Adopting a child

Types of Police Clearance Certificate

There are two main types of police clearance in the Philippines

National Police Clearance (NPC):

This clearance certifies that an individual has no criminal records nationwide. It is often required for employment, government ID applications, and legal processes.

Local Police Clearance (LPC)

This clearance covers criminal records within the specific area of the issuing police station. It is usually faster to obtain and may be useful for local purposes, such as opening a bank account.

Who is Eligible For Police Clearance?

In the Philippines, there is no specific requirement imposed for an individual willing to apply for a police clearance. As far as the reason for acquiring the said document is logical, any applicant is free to lodge a request for its issuance. This applies to both Filipino citizens and foreign residents.

Here’s an overview of who can apply for PNP clearances:

Filipino Citizens

People need clearance for job agreements, the travel visa e-application, licensing, or for going through a background check, etc

Foreign Residents

Foreigners residing in the Philippines require it for applications for work permits, extension of visa, and other clearances.

Students

Students during their schooling years frequently require a PNP clearance for applying for school scholarship programs outside the country, school-organized tours, special events or activities, or wherever is required by the school.

Legal requirements:

Persons require the document so that they may apply for legal attestation and licensing etc.

Key Features of National Police Clearance Certificate in the Philippines

The National Police Clearance Certificate (NPC) is an important document in the Philippines, useful for multiple purposes basically to prove an individual’s clean criminal record. The main key features are:

Countrywide Verification

The NPC checks your criminal record across all law enforcement authorities in the Philippines, for a complete background verification nationwide and not only limited to the locality where you apply for it.

Criminal Record Check

It discloses any criminal cases, charges, or convictions associated with you within the country, making it useful for various legal and professional processes.

Official Document

The NPC is recognized as an official document, issued by the Philippine National Police (PNP). It is required for employment, visa applications, or other formal purposes.

Validity Period

Typically, the clearance is valid for 3 months to 1 year, depending on the applicant’s request. Once expires, a renewal is usually needed.

Purpose

This document is mainly used for employment, visa applications, firearms licensing, and other situations where verification of your criminal history is mandatory.

Accessibility

You can easily apply for NPC online through the National Police Clearance System (NPCS) or visit designated police stations for in-person applications.

Processing Time

The processing time to clearance varies by application method and the number of applications already in the queue. Online applications may be quicker, taking less than an hour time in some cases, while walk-in applications might take a little longer time, usually between 30 minutes to an hour.

Cost

The base fee for obtaining the NPC is ₱150. Additional fees may apply depending on the payment method chosen, typically ranging from ₱10 to ₱30. First-time job seekers are exempt from this fee under the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act, on the provision of a Barangay Certificate. You can check First Time Jobseekers Guide here.

National Police Clearance Certificate Fees

The fee structure is as follows:

Basic Fee: ₱150
Transaction Fees: An extra charge may apply for certain payment methods, such as online portals or bank charges, which can range from ₱10 to ₱30.

First-Time Job Seekers: Eligible individuals can avail exemption for free, under specific conditions.

Processing Time of National Police Clearance Certificate

The processing time for NPC varies depending on the application method:

Online Application:

Registering online can take less than 10 minutes. However, biometric data (fingerprints and photos) must be captured in person at a police station.

Walk-in Application:

Direct applications at police stations might take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the queue and volume of applicants.

Police Clearance Certificate Application

How to Apply for a National Police Clearance

Applying for a National Police Clearance has become more accessible with the National Police Clearance System (NPCS). It is a nationwide online application platform to streamline the process.

Requirements For National Police Clearance:

At least two valid IDs:

Must be original, not expired, and show your complete name, signature, and a clear photo.

Police Clearance Locations- Where to Apply:

Police stations listed on the NPCS website, or at PNP National Police Clearance booths in SM malls nationwide.

Appointment Required:

Yes, you need to book an online appointment through the NPCS website.

Coverage:

Nationwide criminal record check.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for your clearance by PNP:

Step 1: Online Registration and Appointment Setting

Visit the official NPCS website at pnpclearance.ph to start your application.

Account Registration:

For first-time applicants, register an account by providing your details and a valid email address.

Email Confirmation:

Check your email inbox (or spam folder) for a confirmation email from NPCS, and click the link to verify your account.

Sign-In:

Step 2: Profile Completion and Appointment Setting

Edit Profile:

Complete all necessary information in your profile and ensure accuracy.

Set an Appointment:

Choose the police station where you want to process your clearance and select a date and time from the available slots.

Payment:

Once your appointment is set, you will be directed to the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) ePayment Portal. The portal offers multiple payment options including Landbank accounts, GCash, BancNet, and cash payments via 7-Eleven. Complete the payment process at least two days before your appointment to avoid cancellation.

Step 3: Online Payment

Police Clearance Certificate Fee:

Note the reference number and pay the ₱ 160 fee (₱ 150 for clearance + ₱ 10 transaction fee) via Landbank, GCash, or BancNet.

Select Payment Options/Methods:

Pay the processing fee through the Land Bank of the Philippines, GCash, BancNet, or other available methods. Ensure payment is completed at least two banking days before your appointment.

Reference Number:

Save or note down the reference number generated after payment.

Step 4: Photo and Fingerprint Capture

On your appointment date, reach the chosen police station with your valid government-issued IDs, reference number, and payment receipt.
Personal appearance at a police station is mandatory for photo and fingerprint capture. Your photo and fingerprint will be taken at the station. The quick process ensures that your biometrics are correctly recorded for clearance issuance.

Step 5: Release of Clearance

The release of your National Police Clearance depends on whether your application has a “hit” in the criminal database:

Without Hit: If no criminal records are found, your clearance will be released immediately.
With Hit: If there is a “hit” in the PNP database, additional verification will be required, which may delay the release.

How to apply for Local Police Clearance Certificate (LPC)

Requirements For Local Police Clearance

A Valid ID

Refer to the list of accepted IDs below.

Cedula or Community Tax Certificate

Obtain from the municipal or city treasurer’s office or barangay hall.

2 pieces of 2×2 ID Pictures

Bring your own as a precaution, though some police stations provide photo services.

Barangay Clearance

From the barangay where you have resided for at least three months.

If you have only one valid ID, present it with a certified true copy of your birth certificate or a Barangay Residency Certification can be presented as an alternative. You can read in detail about Barangay Clearance here.

Accepted Valid IDs for National Police Clearance

AFP ID
BFP ID
GSIS UMID
LTO Driver’s License
PRC ID/License
School ID with registration form
IBP ID
PCG ID
BJMP ID
Marina ID
Pag-IBIG ID
OFW ID
Alien Certificate of Registration
Birth Certificate
Passport

SSS ID/UMID
TIN ID
PWD ID
Voter’s ID
PhilHealth ID
PNP ID
Postal ID
Senior Citizen ID
National ID
Passport
Driver’s License
National ID (PhilID)
Voter’s ID
Barangay Clearance, etc.

Police Clearance Locations- Where to Apply

Municipal/city hall of your residence.

Appointment Required:

No online appointment is needed.

Coverage:

Criminal records only within the municipality.

Applying for a Local Police Clearance (LPC) typically involves a more localized process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Visit the Police Station:

Go to the police station with jurisdiction over your residence, typically located in the municipal or city hall compound.

Obtain and Fill Out Request Form:

Approach the help desk, request a Police Clearance Request Form, and submit the completed form with the required documents.

Pay the Clearance Fee:

Proceed to the local treasurer’s office to pay the fee and return to the police station with the official receipt.

Fingerprinting and Records Check:

Affix your fingerprints to the application form. The officer will check records for any pending cases or blotters.

Receive Your Clearance:

If cleared, your police clearance will be issued.

Local Police Clearance (LPC) vs National Police Clearance (NPC)

Contact Information

For inquiries, you can contact the Philippine National Police hotline at 911.
For questions related to NPC applications, visit the NPCS website or check their help section for assistance.

Difference Between Police Clearance Certificate and NBI Clearance Certificate

Do’s and Dont’s for Police Clearance

Agreement and Privacy Policy

When applying for a National Police Clearance, you agree with the Philippine National Police (PNP). By using the services provided by the PNP, including the NPCS website, you agree to the collection, storage, use, and disclosure of your personal information as specified in the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (RA No. 10173). The PNP maintains the safeguarding of your personal information, ensuring its privacy, accuracy, and security. Your contact information may be used to send updates regarding your clearance or for research and statistical purposes.

Your NPCS Account/Profile

To apply for a National Police Clearance, you must create an NPCS account. This account requires accurate and current personal information, which will be used throughout the application process. It is necessary to review the accuracy of your details, especially your name, email address, and birthdate, as these cannot be edited once saved. Incorrect information may lead to a penalty of payment and cancellation of your transaction, requiring you to reapply and go through the entire process again.

Loss of Payment and Transaction Cancellation

If you fail to pay the transaction fee within two banking days before your scheduled appointment, your transaction will be canceled. Additionally, if you miss your appointment date at the police station, your payment will be cancelled. In case of inaccurate information on the printed clearance, caused by incorrect data entry during account creation, the PNP will not reprint your clearance. You have to undergo the entire process again to update your account.

Clearance Printout, Validity & Renewal

The National Police Clearance will show criminal records found in the PNP database, if any. This clearance document is valid for six months, after which you may need to renew it. The renewal process can be done without an appearance for three years from the last appearance. You need to update your NPCS account, upload a new 2×2 picture with a white background, and take a selfie holding a valid government-issued ID. Read in detail about Police Clearance Renewal here.

Want to learn about Business Clearance and Permits in the Philippines

Tips and Warnings

Missed Appointment

You have 15 days to claim your clearance before payment is forfeited.

Incorrect Data

Incorrect data on the printed clearance requires re-application.

Verification

Verify the authenticity of your clearance on the NPCS website.

Payment Options

You can pay the fee at Land Bank of the Philippines, GCash, BancNet, or other available methods. 7-Eleven using a pre-generated barcode if you don’t have a bank account.

Conclusion

Obtaining a police clearance in the Philippines is a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and ensure all information is accurate. By understanding the requirements and procedures, you can avoid common pitfalls and secure your clearance efficiently, whether for employment, legal purposes, or personal reasons.

FAQs About National Police Clearance Certificate

What is a National Police Clearance (NPC)?

The NPC is a document issued by the Philippine National Police that verifies an individual’s criminal record on a national level.

How long is the National Police Clearance Certificate valid?

The clearance is valid for six months from the date of issuance.

Can I renew my police clearance Certificate without appearing in person?

Yes, you can renew it without appearing in person for up to three years from the last appearance by updating your details online and uploading the required documents.

What should I bring to my appointment at the police station?

Bring two valid IDs, the payment receipt, and the reference number provided after online registration. If you want to read in detail about appointment you can read here Police Clearance Appointment.

What happens if I don’t pay the fee on time?

In case of Failure to pay the fee at least two days before your appointment will result in the cancellation of your transaction.

How do I know if I have a “hit” in the PNP database?

If there is a “hit,” you will be notified, and additional verification will be required.

Can I update my NPCS profile after registration?

Certain fields like your name, email, and birthdate cannot be edited after registration. Ensure all information is accurate before saving.

What should I bring to my appointment at the police station?

Bring two valid IDs, the payment receipt, and the reference number provided after online registration.

Do I need to pay for the National Police Clearance?

Yes, the processing fee is typically ₱150, with additional transaction fees.

Can I apply for a police clearance Certificate online?

Yes, you can register and set an appointment online via the NPCS.

What IDs are accepted for police clearance?

Accepted IDs include a Passport, Driver’s License, National ID, SSS ID, and others as listed above

Can I use the same police clearance for multiple applications?

Yes, you can use a single police clearance certificate for multiple applications, as long as it’s within the validity period. However, each requesting organization may ask for a recent certificate, so it’s advisable to confirm with them beforehand.

Is it possible to apply for a police clearance without going to the police station?

While the initial application and payment can be done online through the NPCS, applicants still need to visit the designated police station to complete biometrics, including photo and fingerprint capture. This step is essential for the background verification process

Can I expedite the processing of my police clearance?

Generally, there is no official expedited service for police clearance. However, if there is no “hit” (i.e., no matching record in the criminal database), the clearance is often issued the same day. For cases with a “hit,” additional processing may be needed, and the clearance could take longer.

What should I do if I receive a “hit” notification on my police clearance?

A “hit” means there may be a match in the criminal records database. When this happens, the police will conduct further verification, which can delay the issuance of your clearance. If you have no criminal record, this delay should resolve automatically. However, if issues persist, visit the police station to inquire about the verification status.

Can foreigners apply for a police clearance certificate in the Philippines?

Yes, foreign nationals who have lived or worked in the Philippines can apply for a police clearance. They should follow the same online process on the NPCS website and provide identification documents such as an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) or passport during their appointment.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my police clearance application?

Unfortunately, police clearance fees are generally non-refundable. If you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, you may reschedule it without an additional fee, but refunds are not provided, even if the application is not completed.

How can I verify the authenticity of a police clearance certificate?

The National Police Clearance System (NPCS) provides an online verification service. You can verify a clearance certificate by entering the reference number and surname on the NPCS website. This feature is especially useful for organizations or employers that need to validate the document’s authenticity