How to Apply for a Police Clearance in the Philippines
A Police Clearance is often requested when applying for a job, whether local or abroad. It also serves as a supporting document when applying for a passport or when required by other government agencies. Unlike a Barangay Clearance or an NBI Clearance, a Police Clearance specifically certifies that the applicant has no criminal record within the Philippine National Police (PNP) system and its affiliated stations. The Barangay Clearance only covers your local community, while the NBI Clearance checks for cases and records nationwide.
Aside from employment purposes, Police Clearance can also serve as a valid government-issued ID if you do not yet have others.
The good news: securing a Police Clearance is usually simpler and faster than getting an NBI Clearance. In most cases, you can complete it within the same day.
Requirements
Before heading to your nearest Police Clearance Center, prepare the following:
- Recent Cedula (Community or Residence Tax Certificate)
- Barangay Clearance
- Application Form (provided at the police station)
Bring both the original and photocopies of your requirements. No need to bring pictures, as your photo and signature will be captured digitally at the PNP office.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Police Clearance

Step 1: Present Your Requirements
Go to the Police Clearance Center with your cedula, barangay clearance, and application form. Submit both original and photocopies for verification.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
You will be given a form to complete. Fill it out carefully and submit it back to the personnel in charge.
Step 3: First Payment
You will receive a payment slip. Proceed to the payment area and pay the clearance fee of ₱100. Secure the receipt and return to the Police Clearance Center.
Step 4: Fingerprinting
Show your payment receipt to the officer, then proceed with fingerprinting. The officer will guide you through the process.
Step 5: Second Payment
Next, you will need to pay a Security Fee of ₱150. Keep the small white receipt they provide.
Step 6: Encoding
Present your documents and the second receipt. Your personal details will be encoded into the system. Double-check the information to avoid errors.
Step 7: Picture Taking
Your picture will be taken on-site. Male applicants should be clean-shaven and wear proper attire. Glasses will be removed during the photo capture. Female applicants should also wear appropriate clothing.
Step 8: Digital Signing
You will be asked to sign electronically using a digital pen. Ensure your signature matches the one on your official IDs.
Step 9: Thumb-printing
Place your left and right thumbs on the biometric scanner. Wait for the confirmation that the scan is complete.
Step 10: Releasing
Proceed to the waiting area and wait for your name to be called. Releasing usually takes 10–20 minutes, depending on the number of applicants.
Once released, you now have your Police Clearance.
Validity and Renewal
A Police Clearance is valid for six months. For renewal, you will need to go through the same process, but bringing your previous Police Clearance can help as supporting documentation.
Final Tips
- Go early to avoid long lines.
- Wear decent clothing since your picture will be taken.
- Double-check the details during encoding.
- Keep your receipts until you receive your clearance.
With your Police Clearance in hand, you now have another essential document that can support job applications, passport applications, travel requirements, and other legal processes in the Philippines.
Do they issue police clearance on a Saturday?
I live in Australia on a new Zealand passport . immigration has asked for philippens police clearance. I am travelling to kalibo philippens. where is the closest place to kalibo to get this from. can you please send address thank you
where can we apply for police clearance?
what time is thier office hour ?
May i know if it is possible for a filipino abroad to get a police clearance and police certificate online.if so what are the steps for the applicant abroad do. I also do not see any blank form for the applicant to useThank you.
Hi how to apply in online?I’m working here in New Zealand
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what if i dont have a cedula?
Pwedeng cedula Lang at id
Hi
one municipality I know requires drug test first before processing police clearance.
How about an ofw trying to get a police clearance? Can he get it even if he lives abroad?
Pwd pb ung barangay clearance gmitin na naissue nong march 2017.
what if I dont have a cedula?
Can i get police clearance online
Is this possible if someone bring an authorization letter for someone who want to get a police clearance?
for Renewal of my police clearance i need more requirements?
Hello sir did you need any id if i get police clearance ?
I AM RESIDING IN SOUTH AFRICA AND REQUIRE A PHILIPPINE POLICE CLEARANCE AS I USED TO LIVE IN MANILA FROM 1978 TO 1984. PLEASE ADVISE HOW I CAN APPLY. THANK YOU
How registered online sir
Hi! Sir how to aply police clearance online
I have several criminal records and spent many years in prison I am free now will these records show in the clearance of pnp and nbi and if yes then I won’t be able to get a job
Ask ko lang po pano po ako walang cedula pwedi po tin id nalang?
Pano po magrenew ng police id card at clearance ng online po gagawin. Para hindi n po ako pupunta mismo
Just a tip. Don’t wear shorts, earrings or sleeveless shirt when applying for a police clearance. They are additional requirements of some municipalities. I live in general trias, cavite and I had to go back the next day because I was wearing cargo shorts.
Control number and Id number of police clearance are same for using to submit in fill out registration of bank account