How to Get Police Clearance Online in the Philippines (2025 Guide)
Getting a police clearance online is now easier for everyone in the Philippines. Whether you need it for work, travel, or other important matters, you can complete the process from your computer or phone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step so you know exactly what to do.
What Is National Police Clearance?
National Police Clearance is a document issued by the Philippine National Police (PNP) that proves a person has no criminal record nationwide. It is more reliable than the local police clearance because it checks your name across the entire country, not just in one city or municipality.
The process to get this clearance is called the National Police Clearance Application Process. It involves registering for police clearance online through the official NPCS website, setting an appointment, and going to your selected police station for photo capture and fingerprint scanning.
Once you’re cleared, you will be issued your NPC clearance, which is often required for jobs, travel, or business needs. This system helps make sure that records are properly verified all over the Philippines.
What Is Police Clearance Online and Why You Need It
In past years, getting a police clearance meant going to the nearest police station. You had to wait in long lines, bring printed documents, and spend hours just to complete the process.
But now, with the launch of the National Police Clearance System, Filipinos can apply for police clearance online.
This system makes everything easier and faster. The police clearance online process is safer, more convenient, and helps you avoid delays. With just a few clicks on your phone or computer, you can set an appointment and finish the rest at the police station in just 10 to 15 minutes. You don’t have to wait in long lines anymore.
A police clearance is often required when applying for a job, government documents, business permits, or even travel visas. It proves that you have no criminal record or any legal cases. Employers and agencies trust this document to make sure the person they’re dealing with has a clean background.
Table of Contents
Steps in Securing Police Clearance Online
The National Police Clearance System (NPCS) allows you to apply for police clearance online through their official website. This system helps make the process easier, faster, and more convenient. No need to fall in line for hours. Just follow each step on the website, and you’ll be done in no time.
Police Clearance Online Registration 2025
To start your police clearance online application, you first need to create an account on the National Police Clearance System (NPCS) website. Here’s how:
#1. Go to the official NPCS website
Open your browser and search for “National Police Clearance System” or go directly to https://pnpclearance.ph/
#2. Click on “Register” as a new user
If this is your first time applying, click on the “Register” button. You’ll see it on the upper right side of the page.
#3. Fill in your personal details
Enter the following information carefully to proceed for police clearance online.
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Email address
- Mobile number
- Gender
#4. Set your password
Choose a strong password that you can remember. You’ll use this to log in again later.
#5. Accept the terms and conditions
Tick the box to agree to the terms. Then click “Register.”
#6. Check your email for a verification link
Go to your email inbox and look for a message from NPCS. Click the link in the email to activate your account.
Once you’ve verified your email, your account is ready. You can now log in to continue your police clearance online application.
National Police Clearance Online Login
Now that your account is set up, it’s time to log in and complete your profile details.
#1. Go to the NPCS website
Visit https://pnpclearance.ph
#2. Login to your account
Click on “Login” at the top right of the page. Enter the email and password you used during the national police clearance system registration and click on the “sign in” button.
#3. Edit Your Profile
After completing your national police clearance system registration and logging into your account, your profile information will appear on the screen. Click on the “Edit Profile” button to review your details. Make sure of all the information you entered. If you notice anything that needs to be corrected, update the information right away. Once everything looks good, click “Save” to proceed.
Important:
All the information in your profile must match your valid government ID. Any mismatch can lead to rejection or additional verification steps. Once your profile is complete and accurate, you can move forward to book your appointment for the police clearance online.
Start the Online Application
Once your profile is complete and saved, you can now begin the application process for your police clearance.
#1. Click on “Clearance Application”
On your dashboard, find and click the “Clearance Application” button. This will take you to the application form.
#2. Fill in the required details
You’ll be asked to provide additional information needed for the clearance. Fill in all the required fields carefully and double-check everything before moving to the next step.
#3. Select the type of clearance
When prompted, choose “National Police Clearance” from the list of clearance types. This is the standard option for general purposes like employment, business, or personal records.
Once this is done, you can proceed to choose your appointment date and payment method.
Book Your Police Clearance Online Appointment
After completing your application, the next step is to schedule your appointment for the photo and fingerprint capture.
#1. Choose your preferred police station
Select the police station that is most convenient for you. This will be the location where you’ll go to complete the final steps of your clearance.
#2. Pick a date and time
Look at the available dates and time slots. Choose the one that best fits your schedule.
#3. Confirm your appointment
Review the details to make sure everything is correct. Once confirmed, your appointment will be saved in the system.
Remember to keep a copy or take a screenshot of your appointment confirmation. This will be useful when you visit the police station.
Pay the Police Clearance Fee
- The fee is ₱150 plus any applicable transaction fees.
- On the payment page, you will see your unique Reference Number displayed in red. Save this number carefully because you will need to present it at the police station during your photo and fingerprint capture.
- To pay, click the “PAY TO LANDBANK” option. The National Police Clearance System uses the Land Bank ePayment Portal for online payments.
- You have several convenient payment options:
- Land Bank account
- GCash
- BancNet online banking (partner banks)
- Cash payment at 7-Eleven via the CLiQQ mobile app
- Choose the option that works best for you and complete the payment.
- After the payment is successful, download and print your Fee Payment Receipt. You will need to bring this receipt with you on your appointment day.
If your payment is not credited to the system by the appointment date, your booking will be cancelled. You will have to log in again, book a new appointment, and make the payment once more.
Important:
Make sure you pay at least two banking working days before your scheduled appointment. Failure to do so will result in automatic cancellation of your appointment.
Visit the Police Station on Appointment Day
On your scheduled appointment day, visit the chosen police station to complete the process.
Bring these important documents with you:
- Two valid government-issued IDs (such as passport, driver’s license, or national ID)
- Your payment receipt
- Your reference number
At the police station, your photo, fingerprints, and digital signature will be taken. You will also go through a document verification process. Make sure to follow the instructions given by the police officers.
Police Clearance Release (With Hit vs. Without Hit)
After your biometric data is captured through the police clearance online system, the release of your clearance depends on whether you have a “hit” or not in the PNP database.
Without Hit
If you have a clean record (no match in the PNP database), your clearance will be released on the same day. You can pick it up and go home.
With Hit
If your name matches or is similar to someone in the criminal database, additional verification will be required.
- You may be asked to provide more documents.
- The process may take longer, and you might need to visit the police station again for further checks.
- Stay patient and provide the requested documents as soon as possible to complete the verification.
Types of Police Clearance
When applying for a police clearance online, it’s important to know which type of clearance you need. Different situations and purposes require different clearances issued by various authorities. Below are the common types of police clearance available through the PNP and other agencies:
#1. National Police Clearance (NPC)
The National Police Clearance is issued by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and is the most widely accepted police clearance for various purposes such as employment, travel, and licensing. You can apply for the NPC through the police clearance online system, which simplifies the process by allowing you to register, book appointments, and pay fees electronically. The NPC confirms if an individual has any criminal records nationwide.
#2. Local Police Clearance (LPC)
The Local Police Clearance is issued by the local police office or municipal police station in your area of residence. This type of clearance is usually required for local transactions, community-related permits, or employment within the locality. While some municipalities offer online services, many still require in-person applications. The LPC mainly verifies your records within the local jurisdiction of the issuing police office.
#3. Barangay Clearance
Barangay Clearance is a certification issued by the Barangay (village) officials and is often required as part of the documents for securing a police clearance or for local permits and business registrations. This clearance certifies your good standing and residency in the barangay. It’s usually obtained directly from the barangay hall and is not processed through the police clearance online system.
#4. National Bureau of Investigation Clearance (NBI)
The NBI Clearance is another widely used document for background checks, especially for employment and travel abroad. It is issued by the National Bureau of Investigation and can be applied online through the NBI clearance system separate from the PNP’s police clearance online portal. The NBI clearance includes a fingerprint check and a more detailed investigation of criminal records at the national level.
Eligibility Criteria for Getting a Police Clearance
To apply for a police clearance online through the PNP system called National Police Clearance System, you need to meet some basic requirements. It’s not complicated, but make sure you check the list before starting your application.
Here’s what makes you eligible:
- You must be a Filipino citizen.
- You should be at least 18 years old. In some areas, local police offices may allow applicants as young as 16 with proper documents.
- You need at least one valid government-issued ID. Examples include your driver’s license, passport, UMID, or voter’s ID.
If you meet these points, you can go ahead with your national police clearance system registration and schedule your appointment.
Who Needs a PNP Clearance and Why?
Many people in the Philippines, citizens, foreign residents, and students need it for different purposes. Below are some common situations where this clearance is required.
🇵🇭 Filipino Citizens
If you’re a Filipino citizen, you may need a police clearance when:
- Applying for a new job
- Getting a business permit
- Renewing or applying for a passport or travel visa
- Applying for government licenses or documents
- Starting work abroad or migrating
- Needing a background check for legal or personal matters
In short, anytime an employer, office, or agency wants to make sure your record is clean, you’ll need police clearance.
Foreign Residents (Expats)
Foreigners living in the Philippines may also need police clearance for:
- Renewing their work permit
- Applying for or renewing their residency visa
- Legal requirements or background checks
- Employment or rental agreements
Even as a non-citizen, if you’re staying or working in the country, having a clean background verified is often part of official paperwork.
Students
Some schools or colleges require a police clearance for:
- Applying for scholarships
- Joining school trips or exchange programs
- Entering competitions or special school activities
- When school authorities ask for a background check
It’s common for students, especially those applying for opportunities abroad, to be asked to show proof of good conduct.
Required Documents You Need for a Police Clearance
Before you go to get your police clearance, make sure you have all the required documents. Whether you’re applying online or going to the police station in person, having complete documents helps avoid delays.
Here’s a simple guide to what you need:
Basic Requirements Before Applying
To start the online application for National Police Clearance, you must have:
- A valid email address (you’ll use this to register and get updates)
- An active mobile number (for verification and messages)
- Proof that you’re allowed to apply (such as Filipino citizenship, a residency visa, or a student visa)
What to Bring on the Day of Appointment
Once you’ve booked your appointment and go to the police station for your photo and fingerprinting, you’ll need:
- Your application reference number (from your online booking)
- Official payment receipt (to confirm you paid the fee)
- Two valid IDs (bring the originals)
List of Accepted Valid IDs
Here are some of the IDs you can use. You must bring two, and both should be original and not expired. Each ID should have your name, photo, and signature.
- Passport
- Driver’s License (LTO)
- National ID (PhilSys)
- SSS or GSIS ID
- Voter’s ID
- Postal ID
- PhilHealth ID
- UMID
- TIN ID
- PRC License
- Senior Citizen ID
- School ID with current registration form
- Alien Certificate of Registration (for foreign nationals)
- OFW ID
- PWD ID
- IBP ID (for lawyers)
- AFP, BFP, BJMP, PNP, or PCG ID (for uniformed personnel)
If you don’t have any of these, check with your local police station to see which other documents they accept.
Extra Tip
It’s always a good idea to bring photocopies of your documents, just in case the police clearance office asks for them.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Police Clearance?
If you’re planning to get a police clearance, one of the most common questions is: what is the processing time of police clearance?
The good news is that with the National Police Clearance System (NPCS) now online, the process is much faster and easier than it used to be.
Processing Time for Online Application
Applying for police clearance online is the quicker option. Here’s how it works:
Online Registration
You’ll need to create an account and book an appointment. This usually takes 10 minutes or less.
Visit to Police Station
On the day of your appointment, go to the selected station for your photo and fingerprinting. This also takes around 10 minutes. Total time for online application is just 20 minutes if there are no delays.
After the fingerprinting is done, your police clearance is usually printed and handed to you right away. In some cases, if there’s a system delay or network issue, it may take a little longer, but most applicants walk out with the document in hand.
Processing Time for Walk-In Application
If you prefer to apply in person without going through the online system, that’s possible too. Just head to a police station that offers the National Police Clearance service.
Here’s what happens with a walk-in application:
- Filling out the form and verifying your identity takes some time.
- You’ll need to pay the fee and wait for your turn for photo and fingerprint capture.
- After that, they’ll do a quick background check.
Total time for walk-in application is 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how busy the station is. If there are others ahead of you in line, it could take longer, especially during peak hours or at busy locations.
Final Tip
If you’re in a rush, go for the police clearance online option. It saves time and helps you avoid long lines. Make sure your documents are complete, so you don’t have to come back again.
Standard Fee for Police Clearance
The regular fee for a National Police Clearance is ₱150. There’s also a ₱10 to ₱15 service charge if you pay through payment centers. So the total cost is around ₱160 to ₱165.
According to the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act (RA 11261), first-time job seekers can get their police clearance for free.
To qualify, you must:
- Be a Filipino citizen actively looking for a job for the first time
- Get a barangay certificate stating that you’re a first-time job seeker
- Bring that certificate when applying for police clearance
This free service is available only once, so make it count!
Keep the Receipt
Whether you paid online or in person, don’t lose your payment receipt. You’ll need to show it when you visit the police station for fingerprinting and photo capture.
A Quick Warning
Only pay through official channels for police clearance online. Avoid third-party agents or “fixers.” The process is simple, and you don’t need to pay anyone extra.
National Police Clearance Validity and Renewal
When you get your National Police Clearance, it’s important to know how long it lasts and what to do when it expires.
How Long Is a Police Clearance Valid?
A National Police Clearance is valid for 6 months from the date it was issued. That means you can use it for any job, travel, or legal purpose within that time. Once 6 months pass, your clearance is no longer accepted, and you’ll need to renew it.
How to Renew Your Police Clearance?
If your clearance has expired or is about to expire, you can renew it by repeating the process. There is no shortcut or separate renewal form. Here’s what to do:
- Log in to the National Police Clearance System (NPCS).
- Book a new appointment at your preferred police station.
- Pay the required fee.
- Visit the police station on your appointment date for fingerprinting and photo capture.
- Get your updated clearance, just like the first time.
Even for renewals, the steps are exactly the same as the first application.
Can I Renew Before It Expires?
Yes, you don’t have to wait for it to expire. If your clearance is close to expiring and you need it soon, you can apply for a new one anytime. Just make sure to use your latest details when filling out the application form.
Why It Expires After 6 Months
The clearance is only valid for 6 months because It reflects your current record at the time of issuance. Law enforcement agencies regularly update their databases. A short validity ensures your background check is always up to date.
National Police Clearance vs Local Police Clearance
| Feature | National Police Clearance | Local Police Clearance |
|---|---|---|
| Issued By | Philippine National Police (PNP) via National System | Local Municipal or City Police Department |
| Coverage | Nationwide, covers entire Philippines | Limited, valid only within issuing city or municipality |
| Where to Use | Accepted for jobs, travel, licenses, and official purposes nationwide | Usually accepted for local use only (job, barangay matters, etc.) |
| Application Method | Online (via PNP Clearance website) + personal appearance | Walk-in to local police station |
| Database Check | Centralized database check (across all regions) | Local database check only |
| Validity | 6 months | Depends on local office (usually 6 months or less) |
| Required Documents | 2 valid government-issued IDs, proof of appointment & payment | Valid ID, barangay clearance, and community tax certificate (varies by LGU) |
| Fees | ₱150 + ₱30 (system fee) | Varies (usually ₱100–₱200 depending on LGU) |
| Preferred for Employment | Yes, required by most employers and agencies | Sometimes accepted for local jobs |
| Can Be Verified Online? | Yes, via NPCS portal | No, usually not verifiable online |
National Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance
| Factor | National Police Clearance (NPC) | NBI Clearance |
|---|---|---|
| Issued By | Philippine National Police (PNP) | National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) |
| Purpose | Employment, licensing, local & some overseas uses | Employment, passport, visa, travel abroad, etc. |
| Application Method | Online registration + appearance at police station | Online registration + appearance at NBI center |
| Database Scope | PNP database – police blotter records nationwide | Deeper criminal record check across law enforcement units |
| Fingerprint Checking | Yes – captured at the police station | Yes – captured and checked via NBI biometric system |
| Validity | 6 months | 6–12 months (depending on purpose) |
| Cost | ₱150 to ₱200 | Around ₱130 to ₱170 |
| Ideal For | Local & private job applications | Jobs abroad, passport, visa processing |
National Police Clearance vs Barangay Clearance
| Factor | National Police Clearance (NPC) | Barangay Clearance |
|---|---|---|
| Issued By | PNP – Police Station | Barangay Hall (local government unit) |
| Purpose | Verifies nationwide criminal record | Certifies residency and good standing in the barangay |
| Use Cases | Jobs, licenses, permits, travel | Required for police clearance or business permits |
| Database Checked | National police database | None – based on community knowledge |
| Application Method | Online + police station visit | Walk-in at barangay hall |
| Cost | ₱150–₱200 | ₱20–₱100 (varies per barangay) |
| Validity | 6 months | 6 months (or based on barangay policy) |
Contact the Official NPCS Support
If you need help with your police clearance online application, status verification, or technical assistance, you may reach out to the NPCS One-Stop Shop or visit the official platform.
NPCS One-Stop Shop Office
📍Philippine National Police Headquarters
NPCS One-Stop Shop, Camp Crame, Quezon City, Philippines
📞 (02) 8723-0401 loc. 7663
Online Police Clearance Platform
Official Website: https://pnpclearance.ph
Email Support: pnp.clearance@ncr.pnp.gov.ph
PNP General Hotline is 117 or 911
Conclusion
Applying for police clearance online has made the process quicker and more accessible for everyone. Whether you need it for a job, visa, or personal record, understanding the steps, required documents, fees, and validity will help you avoid delays. The Philippine National Police has made it easier with a reliable online system and one-stop-shop support. If you need any help or have specific concerns, it’s best to contact the official NPCS team or visit your nearest police station for assistance.