Independent guide, not affiliated with NBI or PNP Last checked: 28 Sep 2026 We never ask for your personal data

Free Police Clearance for First-Time Job Seekers

If this is your first job since leaving school, the law lets you get your police clearance for free, once.

PapelesPH Editorial TeamChecked 28 Sep 20262 min read
PapelesPH is an independent guide, not affiliated with the PNP. Apply only on the official site, pnpclearance.ph. We never ask for your personal details.
Quick answer
₱0Free once
FTJS certFrom your barangay
1 IDGovernment-issued
Once onlyDisabled after use

Under RA 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act), first-time job seekers get the National Police Clearance free once. Get an FTJS certification from your barangay, tick the first-time job seeker box in your NPCS profile, and present the certification with one valid ID at the station.

Read the steps Open pnpclearance.ph

Who qualifies

RA 11261 covers Filipinos looking for a job for the first time, such as fresh graduates and early school leavers. Your barangay decides whether to issue the certification, so ask them if you're unsure.

How to get it free

  1. Get your FTJS certification

    Ask your barangay for the First Time Job Seeker certification. It certifies that you are a first-time job seeker.

  2. Tick the box in your NPCS profile

    In Edit Profile, tick "First Time Job Seeker (RA 11261)". The PNP notes it is a one-time free clearance and the option is disabled after you use it.

  3. Book your appointment

    Choose your station and slot as usual.

  4. Go to the station

    Present your FTJS certification together with one valid ID.

One time only. The free clearance can be availed once. If you need another police clearance later, you'll pay the regular ₱150.

Other free documents

RA 11261 also covers the barangay clearance, PSA certificates, TIN, UMID and more. See the first-time job seeker certificate guide.

Get the NBI clearance free too

The same law covers the NBI clearance. It has its own portal and needs a barangay certificate plus an oath of undertaking. See the NBI first-time job seeker guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the free clearance if I've worked part-time before?

The barangay issues the certification based on RA 11261's rules. Ask your barangay whether you qualify.

Do I still need to go to the station?

Yes. First-time applicants must appear in person for their photo, signature and biometrics.

Document

First-time job seeker certificate (RA 11261)

The barangay certificate that makes your pre-employment documents free.

NBI

Free NBI clearance for first-time job seekers

The separate portal and the barangay papers you need.

Police

Police clearance requirements

The ID, documents and profile details you need on appointment day.