Confirm the purpose first
The AFP calls it a National Police Certificate (NPC). You must state the purpose of the check on your application, and you can use the certificate only for that purpose. You can use it more than once for the same purpose.
The AFP says you must use the AFP if your request is for Commonwealth or ACT reasons. Ask the organisation which check and purpose it needs. It is up to you to make sure the check suits your purpose, and you cannot get a refund after submitting.
- You cannot apply for someone else without their consent.
- If you are under 18, a parent or guardian needs to co-sign.
Gather your identity documents
If you cannot meet 100 points, contact the AFP before applying.
- Identity documents worth at least 100 points, using the AFP proof of identity checklist
- Scans or photocopies of those documents to attach
- Other names you are, or have been, known by
Apply online or by post
Online applicants receive a digital certificate and can also ask for a posted hard copy. Post a paper form no more than 3 months after you sign it. Applications cannot be lodged at a police station. The application fee is on the AFP page.
| Item | Online | By post |
|---|---|---|
| Use it when | No fingerprint check is needed | You prefer post or need fingerprints |
| Documents | Scan and upload | Printed form, copies and any original fingerprints |
| Payment | Credit card | Bank cheque or money order to the AFP |
If you need a fingerprint check
Some purposes need fingerprints, such as security guard licensing. Outside Canberra, contact your local police station for an appointment. ACT residents use ACT Policing or Access Canberra, depending on the purpose.
Post the original fingerprints with your application. If they are in a language other than English, also send an official translation. The AFP says fingerprint checks take between 15 and 30 business days.
After you apply
If you made a mistake or left out details, contact the AFP straight away. Do not lodge a new application unless the AFP tells you to.
- Most checks are completed and posted within 48 hours of receipt, but some take longer.
- Digital certificates are emailed as a secure PDF with a QR code for validation.
- For a hard copy, wait at least 15 business days before asking about the status.
- Check your name and date of birth on the certificate. Report errors straight away. If the error came from details you entered, you need to submit and pay for a new, correct application.
Common questions
How long is the certificate valid?
It is valid from your application date but does not record later court outcomes. The organisation asking for it decides how long it will accept it.
What if I lose the certificate?
You can download the digital certificate again from the portal for up to 3 months. For a new hard copy, contact the AFP. Reprints are issued for 3 months from the original date. After that, you need to submit a new application.
How do I contact the AFP about my check?
Call +61 2 6140 6502 or use the help options on the AFP police checks page.
Official information
- Australian Federal Police: apply for a National Police Certificate
Purpose, consent, identity documents, online and postal applications, fingerprints and translations, processing, certificate checks and errors, validity, lost certificates and reprints, and contact details. Sources checked 9 October 2026.