Local police clearance is issued by a city or municipal police station and is valid only within that area, while national police clearance is checked against a nationwide police database and accepted across the Philippines.
Many Filipinos are confused about local police clearance vs national police clearance, which often leads to applying for the wrong document. These two clearances serve different purposes and have different acceptance scopes depending on the requirement.
This guide explains the difference in simple terms. You will learn when each clearance is required and how to choose the correct one without wasting time or effort.
What Is Local Police Clearance?
Local police clearance is a document issued by a city or municipal police station. It confirms that you have no criminal record or pending case within that specific area only. The record check is limited to the city or municipality where you apply. It does not automatically include checks from other cities or provinces.
Acceptance of local police clearance varies by requesting office. Some employers, schools, or local agencies accept it, while others may require a national-level clearance instead. Always check the specific type of clearance requested before applying.
What Is National Police Clearance?
A national police clearance is a document issued through a centralized system called NPCS, managed by the Philippine National Police. It checks your record against a nationwide police database, not just one city or municipality. This clearance confirms whether you have any criminal record or pending case across different areas in the Philippines. Because the check is broader, it is accepted by most employers, government offices, and agencies.
A national police clearance is commonly required for employment, travel, business transactions, and other official purposes that require nationwide record verification.
Local Police Clearance vs National Police Clearance Differences
Understanding the local police clearance vs national police clearance difference helps you avoid submitting the wrong document. While both are issued by the police, they differ in coverage, acceptance, application process, and reliability.
Below is a clear comparison based on how each clearance is actually used in the Philippines.
Coverage and Record Checking Scope
Local police clearance
The criminal record check is limited to one city or municipality. The police station checks records only within its local database. Cases or records from other areas are not automatically included.
National police clearance
The record check is done using a broader police database managed by the Philippine National Police. It covers records from different areas across the country, not just one location.
Because of this difference in coverage, national police clearance is generally considered more reliable for nationwide use.
Acceptance and Common Uses
Local police clearance
This is commonly accepted for:
- Local job applications
- Barangay or school requirements
- City or municipal transactions
Acceptance depends on the requesting office. Some employers accept it, while others do not.
National police clearance
This is commonly required for:
- Employment applications
- Travel-related requirements
- Business and other official transactions
Many employers and agencies prefer national police clearance because it meets broader government document requirements.
Application Process Overview
Local police clearance
The application is usually done directly at the police station in your city or municipality. You submit the required documents, complete verification, and wait for processing.
National police clearance
Application starts through an online system, followed by an in-person visit for biometric verification, such as fingerprints and a photo. This step is required to confirm identity.
Requirements may vary by location, so always confirm with your selected police station or clearance center before applying.
Fees and Validity Comparison
Local police clearance
The fee usually ranges from ₱100 to ₱200, depending on the city or municipal police station. The validity period is set by the issuing station and is often 3 to 6 months, so always check the expiration date printed on the clearance.
National police clearance
The standard fee is ₱150, as set by the Philippine National Police, excluding any payment convenience fees charged by payment partners. National police clearance is generally valid for 6 months, unless the requesting office specifies a shorter validity.
Fees and validity periods may still vary by location or purpose, so it is best to confirm through the official portal or your selected police clearance center before applying.
Requirements for Local Police Clearance vs National Police Clearance
The requirements for local and national police clearance are similar, but the submission method and verification steps can differ by location and issuing office.
Below is a simple comparison to help you prepare the correct documents.
| Requirement | Local Police Clearance | National Police Clearance |
| Valid government-issued ID | Required | Required |
| Proof of identity | Verified at local police station | Verified through online registration and biometrics |
| Application form | Filled out at the police station | Filled out online through the official portal |
| Biometric data | May be required, depending on station | Required, includes fingerprints and photo |
| Personal appearance | Required at local police station | Required for biometric capture |
| Supporting documents | May vary by city or municipality | Standard requirements, but may still vary by location |
Pros and Cons of Local Police Clearance
Pros:
- Easier to apply within your city or municipality
- Suitable for local jobs, barangay, or school requirements
- Direct coordination with the local police station
- Useful when the requesting office clearly specifies local clearance
Cons:
- Record check is limited to one location only
- Not accepted by many employers and national agencies
- May be rejected for applications requiring wider verification
- Validity and acceptance vary by issuing police station
Pros and Cons of National Police Clearance
Pros:
- Uses a nationwide police database
- Accepted by most employers and government agencies
- Suitable for employment, travel, and official transactions
- Safer option when requirements are not clearly specified
Cons:
- Requires online registration and an in-person biometric visit
- Processing depends on system availability and appointment slots
- Not ideal for applicants without internet access
- First-time applicants must complete biometric verification
Which One Should You Choose
If you are unsure which police clearance you need, always start by checking the exact requirements from the requesting office. Some offices clearly specify the type of clearance they accept.
Local Police Clearance: Choose local police clearance if the requirement is limited and clearly stated. This is common for local jobs, barangay matters, or school-related submissions where nationwide record checking is not required.
National Police Clearance: Choose this if the document must be accepted across multiple cities or agencies. This is often required for employment, travel, and other official purposes where broader verification is expected.
When the requirement is not clearly stated, a national police clearance is usually the safer option. It is widely accepted and reduces the risk of your application being rejected or delayed.
Conclusion
Choosing between local police clearance vs national police clearance depends on the requirement and where the document will be used. Both serve different purposes and are accepted in different situations. Understanding this difference helps you avoid rejection and delays. Applying for the correct clearance from the start saves time and effort.
FAQs
What is a local police clearance certificate?
A local police clearance certificate is a document issued by a city or municipal police station that confirms you have no criminal record in that specific area.
How can I get a local police clearance?
You can apply at your local police station by submitting the required documents, completing identity verification, and paying the applicable fee. Requirements may vary by location.
Can I get a police clearance certificate from a local police station?
Yes. Local police stations issue local police clearance certificates. Acceptance depends on the requesting office, so confirm which clearance type is required before applying.
Is local police clearance the same as national police clearance?
No. Local police clearance is checked only within one city or municipality, while national police clearance is checked against a nationwide police database and accepted across the Philippines.