National Police Clearance 2026: Requirements, Fees, and How to Apply

Filipinos needing a police clearance for employment, travel, or other legal purposes can apply through the National Police Clearance System (NPCS), the online platform of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for processing clearance applications. The clearance costs ₱150 and is valid for six (6) months from the date of issuance.

Depending on your history with the system, you may be able to apply without personally appearing at a police station. Here’s what you need to know about applying for, renewing, or certifying a National Police Clearance in 2026.

What Is the National Police Clearance?

The National Police Clearance is an official document issued by the PNP confirming an applicant’s criminal record status, based on a check against the PNP’s national database. It’s commonly required for job applications, government transactions, travel documents, and other legal purposes.

Applications are processed through the NPCS website, and depending on your appointment type, you may need to appear in person at a designated police station or complete the process fully online.

Validity and Renewal

A National Police Clearance issued through the NPCS is valid for six (6) months. However, once an applicant has appeared in person for an NPC clearance within the last three years, they may be eligible to renew their clearance without appearing in person for up to three years from that last appearance.

To renew without appearance, applicants must:

1. Log in to the same NPCS account used for their previous clearance application.
2. Update their profile with a current 2×2 picture with a white background.
3. Upload a selfie holding a valid government-issued ID.

Once submitted, applicants do not need to appear at the police station. The renewed clearance can be downloaded directly from the applicant’s NPCS account once processed.

Valid IDs for National Police Clearance Applications

On the day of your appointment, you’ll be required to present one (1) valid ID at your chosen police station. To be accepted, the ID must be:

• Not expired.
• Original, not a photocopy.
• Clear, with a visible photo and signature of the applicant.
• Bearing the applicant’s full name.

Accepted IDs include:

• AFP ID
• Alien Certificate of Registration
• BFP ID
• BJMP ID
• Barangay Residence Certification
• Birth Certificate
• GSIS UMID
• IBP ID
• LTO Driver’s License
• LTOPF ID
• Marina ID
• OFW ID
• PAG-IBIG ID
• PCG ID
• PNP ID
• PRC License
• PWD ID
• Passport
• PhilHealth ID
• Philippine Identification (PhilID)
• Postal ID
• SSS ID/SSS UMID
• School ID with Registration Form
• Senior Citizen’s ID
• TIN ID
• Voter’s ID

READ: List of Valid IDs in the Philippines [UPDATED]

Appearance vs. Non-Appearance Applications

Appearance applications are open to all applicants, including first-time applicants. Biometrics, including a photograph, signature, and fingerprints, are collected in person at the applicant’s chosen appointment location.

Non-appearance applications are only available to individuals who have already completed an in-person NPC clearance process within the last three years, using the same account tied to their previous application.

How to apply for a National Police Clearance (Appearance)

Step 1: Online Registration

1. Visit the official NPCS website: https://pnpclearance.ph
2. Click Register if you’re a new applicant, or Login if you already have an account.
3. Supply the required information on the registration form.
4. Submit and sign in.

Step 2: Complete Your Profile and Set an Appointment

1. Click Edit Profile and complete your personal information, then save.
2. Click the Clearance Application button.
3. Select your purpose for applying, then set an appointment for your preferred date and police station.
4. Click the Landbank button, then Next, then Save Appointment.
5. An appointment reference number will be generated, keep this for your records.

Step 3: Settle Online Payment

1. Click Click here to Pay for payment options.
2. You’ll be redirected to the Landbank ePayment Portal.
3. Choose your preferred payment method (GCash, PayMaya, 7-Eleven, Bayad Center, and other cash payment options are available).
4. Follow the steps for your chosen payment method, then save a copy of your Payment Confirmation Slip or electronic Official Receipt (OR) as proof of payment.

Note: The clearance fee is ₱150. Additional convenience fees may apply depending on your chosen payment method.

Step 4: Processing at the Police Station

On your appointment date, proceed to your selected police station and present:

• One (1) valid government-issued ID.
• Proof of payment or Payment Confirmation Slip.
• Your NPC appointment reference number.

At the station, your biometrics, photo, and signature will be taken. Wait for your name to be called for verification, and for the release of your National Police Clearance.

Important notes:

• First Time Job Seekers (RA 11261) should secure a First Time Job Seeker (FTJS) Certification and present it along with one valid ID. Free clearance under this provision can only be availed once.
• First-time applicants are required to appear in person to have their photo, electronic signature, and biometrics taken.

How to Renew without appearance

1. Log in using your existing NPCS account from your last application.
2. Select the renewal application option, choosing either with or without appearance.
3. For non-appearance renewal, update your profile and upload a current 2×2 picture and a selfie holding a valid government-issued ID.
4. Wait for your application to be processed, no need to appear at the police station.
5. Once approved, download your clearance directly from your NPCS account profile.

Clearance Certification for Special Cases

A separate process, called Clearance Certification, is available specifically for first-time applicants who are unable to personally appear at a designated appointment location, including:

• Filipino citizens working or based in another country.
• Bedridden individuals.
• Petitioners applying for probation or bail.
• Deceased individuals (processed on their behalf).

How to Apply for Clearance Certification

1. Visit https://www.pnpclearance.ph and click Register for first-time applicants.
2. Agree to Terms and Conditions, Read through each term, check the required boxes, click Next, then click I Agree to continue.
3. Fill out the registration form using your personal, active email account, then click Register. Double-check all details (including spelling) before confirming, then click Save.
4. Log in using your registered email and password.
5. Apply for Clearance Certification. Click the Clearance Certification button, select the appropriate certification category, read the notes and requirements, then click Apply.
6. Enter your purpose and current address abroad, then click Next. Make sure spelling and details are accurate, as this will appear on the certification printout.
7. Upload required documents, including:
   • Latest 2×2 photo with a white background.
   • A selfie while holding a government-issued ID.
   • Photocopy of your passport.
   • Proof of OFW status (if applicable).
   • Copy of an ID showing a Philippine address.
8. Select a payment option (Landbank of the Philippines), then click Next.
9. Save your appointment, then review the notes and reminders, and check your Transaction History to confirm your application type shows as “Clearance Certification.”
10. Complete payment by clicking Click Here to Pay and choosing your preferred payment option.
11. Wait for processing. Once payment is confirmed, your application will be reviewed by the One Stop Shop (OSS). If cleared, a Verification Officer and Clearance Processor from the police station will approve your certification.
12. Download your certificate once approved, directly from your NPCS account.

Frequently Asked Questions