How to get Police Clearance Online

A police clearance is required if you are a fresh graduate or new hire who just resigned from your previous position.There is a faster and more convenient way for Filipinos to secure this document thanks to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

If you apply online, you won’t have to wait in line for more than an hour at the police station.In this article, you’ll learn how to obtain a police clearance online in the Philippines.

What is a Police Clearance?

National Police Clearances prove that the holder does not have criminal or derogatory records in the PNP database.

Most employers require job candidates to submit a police clearance. The Philippines accepts it as a valid ID for some transactions, including national ID applications, NBI clearance applications, and credit card applications.

However, police clearances are not accepted as valid IDs for registration with COMELEC and renewal of passports with DFA.

What are the Police Clearance Requirements in the Philippines in 2024?

Here are the essential requirements you need to prepare when applying for a police clearance in 2024:

1. Valid Identification (ID):

You must present at least one valid government-issued ID. Accepted IDs include:

Passport
Driver’s License
Voter’s ID
Postal ID
PhilHealth ID
SSS ID (Social Security System)
GSIS eCard (Government Service Insurance System)
UMID (Unified Multi-Purpose ID)
PRC ID (Professional Regulation Commission)
School ID (for students, along with current registration form)

2. Community Tax Certificate (Cedula):

The Cedula can be obtained from your local barangay or city hall. It serves as proof of residency and is often required as part of the application process.

3. Completed Application Form:

The application form is available at the police station or online through the PNP’s official website. Ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.

4. Appointment Slip (if applying online):

If you applied for a police clearance online, you would need to print your appointment slip, which confirms your scheduled date and time for visiting the police station.

5. Payment of Clearance Fee:

The fee for a police clearance may vary depending on your location, but it typically ranges from PHP 100 to PHP 200. Payment can be made at the police station or through designated payment centers if applying online.

How to Apply for a Police Clearance in 2024

The application process for obtaining a police clearance in 2024 has been simplified with the introduction of the National Police Clearance System (NPCS). Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Online Registration (Optional but Recommended)

Visit the PNP’s Official Website:
- Go to the National Police Clearance System (NPCS) portal and create an account.
Schedule an Appointment:
- Log in to your account and schedule an appointment at your preferred police station. Choose an available date and time.
Fill Out the Application Form:
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal details.
Pay the Clearance Fee:
- Pay the required fee through the available online payment channels or designated payment centers.

Step 2: Visit the Police Station

Bring All Required Documents:
- Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a valid ID, Cedula, appointment slip, and proof of payment.
Biometric Capture:
- At the police station, you will undergo biometric capture, which includes fingerprinting and a photo capture.
Wait for Processing:
- Processing times may vary, but you can usually receive your police clearance on the same day or within a few days.

Step 3: Receive Your Police Clearance

Once your application is processed, you will be issued a police clearance certificate. Check the details carefully to ensure accuracy.

Importance of a Police Clearance

A police clearance is crucial for ensuring that an individual does not have any criminal records or pending cases, thereby fostering trust and credibility in various transactions. It is widely used for:

Employment Applications: Employers often require a police clearance to ensure potential employees do not have a criminal background.
Travel and Immigration: Visa and immigration processes often necessitate a police clearance to demonstrate good conduct.
Government and Legal Transactions: Certain government services and legal processes require a police clearance as part of the documentation.

FAQ’s

How long does it take to process a police clearance online?

The processing time for a police clearance is generally quick, with many applicants receiving their clearance on the same day of their appointment. However, processing times may vary depending on the police station’s workload and the volume of applications.

Can I apply for a police clearance online without visiting a police station?

While the application process is initiated online, applicants must still visit the selected police station to complete biometric capture and receive their police clearance. This step ensures the accuracy and authenticity of the clearance issued.

What should I do if I encounter issues during the online application?

If you experience any technical difficulties or issues during the online application process, you can contact the NPCS support team through their official website or hotline numbers for assistance.

Is the police clearance obtained online valid for international use?

Yes, a police clearance obtained through the NPCS is valid for both local and international use. However, if required for international purposes, you may need to have it authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

Is the police clearance obtained online valid for international use?

How do I verify the authenticity of my police clearance?

To verify the authenticity of your police clearance, you can visit the NPCS portal and enter the clearance number provided on the document. The system will confirm whether the clearance is genuine and valid.

Is there a dress code?

Police clearance applications require a dress code. Dress appropriately for the police station, such as polo shirts and closed shoes—don’t wear shorts, flip-flops, and sleeveless tops.

Can walk-ins be accepted?

There will be no walk-ins allowed. Appointments must be scheduled through the NPCS.

What is the process for renewing my police clearance?

Police clearances can be renewed in the Philippines through the NPCS when their validity period expires (six months after release).

Log in with your existing account. A police appointment is required to appear in court. A court date is not required to appear in court without an appointment. Applicants should not go beyond three years since their last appearance for renewal applications.

Setting up an appointment for With Appearance follows the same steps as above.

The NPCS profile must be updated and a two-by-two photo of you holding a government-issued ID must be uploaded. You will have to wait for your application to be processed.

Conclusion

It is now much easier to apply for police clearances than it was before. Due to the new online application system, transactions are smoother and faster. Getting your police clearance online is easy if you know how to do it.

Did your credit card application require a police clearance? Our credit card application guides are available for UnionBank, Metrobank, HSBC, and Security Bank.