Step by Step Guide 2026
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How to Get a Police Clearance Certificate Online?Step by Step Guide 2026
✓ Apply Online
✓ Pay Online
✓ Same-Day Release
Overview
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
A police clearance certificate, also called a police character certificate, is a government-issued document provided by the police that confirms you do not have any criminal record.
Getting a police clearance certificate is one of the basic requirements when applying for a job, traveling abroad, or completing legal documents. The good news is that you no longer have to visit the police station to get it. The Philippine National Police (PNP) now offers an online application system where you can apply, schedule, and pay for your clearance in just a few minutes.
Eligibility for a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
Although there are no strict eligibility criteria for a police clearance certificate application, to get a PCC you should meet the following:
- You must be 18 years old
- You must be a Filipino citizen
- You must have a legal ID
Why You Need It
Purposes of a Police Clearance Certificate
Getting a police clearance certificate is needed for a number of reasons, including the following.
Employment
A police clearance certificate is often required by companies, both domestically and internationally, as a requirement for the hiring process.
Immigration
It is frequently a necessary document when requesting a visa or resident card in another country. It assures immigration officials that you are free of any criminal records.
Licensing
Certain occupations and licenses in the Philippines, such as a security guard or gun license, require a police clearance certificate during the application or renewal process.
Court Matters
A police clearance certificate can prove your good character in certain court actions.
National Police Clearance Online Registration
Through the PNP online system, Filipinos can request their police clearance without visiting the station first. If you are applying for the first time, follow this simple step-by-step guide.
1
Search Police Clearanc
Open your browser or Google and type PNP clearance, then visit the official PNP clearance website. You can also go directly to the official portal link.
2
Register or log in
First-time applicants click Register to create a new account. If you already have an account, click Login and enter your registered email address and password.
3
Choose your language
After logging in, choose your preferred language and click Begin to proceed.
4
Verify the CAPTCHA
Confirm you are not a robot by completing the CAPTCHA verification, clicking the images you are asked to select.
5
Agree to the terms
Read each term and condition carefully, tick all the boxes, and click Agree to continue.
6
Enter your email address
Type in your email address. Make sure it is active and accessible since you will need it for verification and login later.
7
Create a strong password
Choose a secure password at least 12 characters long with one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, at least one number, and one special symbol. Re-enter it to confirm. Save it in your password manager or note it down safely.
8
Enter your name
Provide your full legal name: first name, middle name (if applicable), and last name. Double-check the spelling before submitting to prevent issues during verification.
9
Select gender and date of birth
Choose your gender, enter your date of birth, then click Save. Sign in again using your email and password and wait until the next page loads completely.
10
Applicant information
Enter your personal details. Your name and date of birth are filled in automatically from registration. Choose your civil status, enter your birth registration number, select your nationality, and choose your birthplace. Tick the PWD or first-time job seeker options if they apply.
11
Contact and address information
Provide your complete address: house number, building, and street name, then choose your province, city or municipality, and barangay. Add an active mobile number since you will receive confirmation messages there.
12
Other personal information
Provide your height and weight (use the built-in converter if needed), complexion, any identifying mark, blood type, religion, educational attainment, and occupation. First-time job seekers should select Jobless as the occupation.
13
Family background
Enter your father’s and mother’s full names and their birthplaces (city or municipality, or the country if born abroad). After filling in all details, click Save Profile to proceed.
Book appointment
How to Book an Appointment for a Police Clearance Certificate
Once your profile is saved, you are redirected to the application page. Follow these steps to book your police clearance appointment.
1
Select purpose and police station
Choose your purpose of application from the available options, then select the nearest police station for your appointment.
2
Choose date and time
Pick your preferred appointment date and time slot, AM or PM, depending on your availability.
3
Payment via Landbank
Click on Landbank of the Philippines to process your police clearance fee. You can later switch to online banking. Click Next to continue.
4
Save appointment
Review all the provided information and required documents. Once confirmed, click Save police clearance Appointment.
5
Change payment method (optional)
To pay the 150 peso fee online, click Change Payment Method. You will be redirected to the Landbank payment page, where you select your payment option, complete the CAPTCHA, and proceed.
6
Choose payment service
You are redirected to the MyEG PH Payment Gateway, where you can pay via mobile payment or over-the-counter. If you choose GCash, you are taken to the official GCash site to log in and complete payment. Online payments include an additional 30 peso service charge.
7
Print transaction details
Once payment is confirmed, click Print Transaction Details to download or print your receipt as proof of payment.
Your Account
Login, Edit Profile, and PCC Release
A few useful things to know about managing your account and collecting your clearance.
National Police Clearance Login
To log in to your National Police Clearance portal, enter the email and password you used during registration. After signing in, your personal details and profile information appear on your screen.
Edit Profile (Optional)
If you need to update or correct any information, click Edit Profile, review all fields carefully, and then click Save Profile to update your details.
PCC Release
To finish the procedure, the station will take your picture and fingerprints. Your printed copy of the PCC will be released to you at the station after it has been processed.
Checklist
Required Documents for Police Clearance Certificate
There are two types of documentation involved: what you need for the online application, and what to bring to the police station.
For the Online Application
Generally, the online application process for a police clearance certificate does not ask you to upload any documents.
For Your Visit to the Police Station
Bring the following to your appointment:
- A printed copy of your appointment confirmation
- Your payment reference number and a printed copy of the receipt as proof of payment
- Two valid government-issued IDs
Accepted Valid IDs
You can use any of the following approved government-issued IDs:
- Passport
- Valid Driver’s License
- PhilID (National ID)
- SSS ID or UMID
- School ID with Registration Form
- National Health Insurance ID
- Voter’s ID
- TIN ID
- PAG-IBIG ID
Special Cases
First-Time Job Seekers and First-Time Applicants
Two important notes depending on your situation.
First-Time Job Seekers
Applicants claiming benefits under Republic Act No. 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act) must secure a First Time Job Seeker (FTJS) Certification from their barangay confirming they are a first-time job seeker. Present this along with one valid government-issued ID at the police station. The free National Police Clearance for FTJS applicants can only be availed once.
For First-Time Clearance Applicants
Personal appearance is mandatory for capturing your photo, electronic signature, and biometrics.
Time & Fees
Processing Time, Fees, and Special Clearance
How long it takes, what it costs, and when a special clearance applies.
Processing Time and Fees
Depending on the application process and workload, the processing time can vary. During regular business hours it normally takes around four weeks, but with an online application it can be completed sooner.
Special Police Clearance Certificate
This type is issued only in special cases where a person cannot apply in person. It is given to Filipinos working or living abroad, people who are sick or bedridden, petitioners who need a clearance for court purposes like probation or bail, and deceased persons when needed for legal or family matters.
Good to Know
Validity and Applying From Abroad
Keep these final points in mind before you submit your clearance.
Validity
A Police Clearance Certificate is generally valid for six months from the date of issuance. If you are using it for purposes like immigration or employment, consider this validity period before submission.
For Filipinos Abroad
If you are residing outside the Philippines, you can apply for a Police Clearance Certificate through the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. Contact them directly to confirm the specific application procedures and police clearance requirements, as these may vary by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Police Clearance FAQ
Quick answers to the most common questions about getting a police clearance certificate online.
Conclusion
A Straightforward Process, Especially Online
Getting a Philippine National Police Clearance Certificate is a straightforward process, especially when done online. This certificate serves as proof of your criminal record status and is often required for employment, immigration, licensing, or other legal purposes. When applying, consider both the office working hours and the six-month validity period of the certificate. For Filipinos living abroad, Philippine embassies and consulates can assist with the application and guide you through the necessary steps.