Police clearance certificate
SAPS & firearms
A Police Clearance Certificate records whether criminal convictions have been recorded against you. You can apply if you need confirmation of your criminal status for emigration, travel or employment abroad. Prepare the completed application, identity copy, fingerprint record for where you live and payment. Choose a submission route and keep your reference for progress checks.
Official downloads
Services | SAPS (South African Police Service) www.saps.gov.za
Services | SAPS (South African Police Service) www.saps.gov.za
How to use it
- If you live in South Africa Have the South African Police Service take your fingerprints. Use this fingerprint record: a full set of his/her fingerprints on a SAPS 91(a).
- If you live abroad Use official fingerprint forms of the applicable country. If available, use the SAPS 91(a) fingerprint enquiry form.
Document checklist
- Application form Complete the application form and include it with your papers.
- Identity document or passport Attach a certified copy. If applying at a police station, bring the original document or passport to prove your identity.
- Fingerprint record Prepare the fingerprint record for where you live. Follow the fingerprint steps below for the applicable form.
- Payment proof Include proof of payment with your application.
- Proof of another surname If you want a maiden or other surname on the certificate, mention it in the application and attach documentary proof. A certified copy of a marriage certificate is one example.
Application fee
| Item | Official information | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Fee per application | R190,00 Source: www.saps.gov.za | 26 Oct 2026 |
Processing estimate
| Item | Official information | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Finalisation after receipt | Allow approximately 15 working days from when Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management receives all required documents. Postal time is excluded. Source: www.saps.gov.za | 26 Oct 2026 |
Avoid these application risks
Fingerprint copies and scanned versions will not be processed. If the South African Police Service identifies an applicant as “Wanted”, a Police Clearance Certificate will not be issued.
Questions & answers
Is the fee refundable?
No. The required tariff is non-refundable.
Can someone else collect a certificate returned to a police station?
The certificate must be handed to the applicant in person. Proof of identity is required at collection.
What should I do if the status record is not found using my identity number?
Provide your surname and date of birth in the status enquiry.
Will an application sent from abroad be returned?
No. Applications received from abroad will not be returned to the applicant.
Related documents
More help
Sources
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