How to Resolve a Police Clearance HIT Status?

How to Resolve a Police Clearance HIT Status. When applying for a police clearance, a “hit status” (also known as a “police clearance hit”) can pose a significant problem. The status usually indicates that your name matches someone who has had a criminal record or has a pending legal issue, causing the clearance process to be delayed. Those navigating the clearance process need to understand what a Police Clearance Hit is and how it affects their application.
Keep reading to find out what next steps you should take if you’re unsure whether your application has a hit status or need guidance on how to resolve it.
What is a “HIT” in Police Clearance?
Police clearances with a “HIT” status indicate a match in criminal records. You must cross-check your data (e.g., your full name, address, and birthdate) with existing records in the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other law enforcement databases when requesting a police clearance.
The system flags your clearance as a HIT if there is a match with someone who has a criminal record or a similar name. It does not necessarily mean you have a criminal record; it simply means further verification is necessary.
How to Resolve a Police Clearance HIT Status?
HIT statuses can occur for a variety of reasons. These are some of the most common:
- Mistaken Identity: The system may flag your application as a possible match if your name, birthdate, or other personal details match those of someone with a criminal record.
- Common Names: For individuals without criminal records, common surnames can cause multiple records in the database, potentially causing a HIT.
- Similar Personal Information: If your address or the names of your parents are similar to those on your criminal record, you may experience a HIT.
- Pending or Unresolved Cases: Your name may be flagged if there is an ongoing investigation or pending case involving someone with the same or similar identity details.
How to Check if You Have a HIT Status?
The following steps will help you determine whether your police clearance application has been marked with a HIT status:
- Online Application Portal: You can check your clearance status if you applied online through NPCS by logging into the website and tracking the progress of your application. HIT status is usually displayed here.
- In-Person Inquiry: Please visit the location where your application was submitted if you applied directly at a police office. Your clearance status and whether it has been flagged for a HIT will be explained to you by them.
- Notification from Authorities: Once your application has been processed, you will usually receive a notification about the HIT status from the PNP clearance or police. The next steps will likely be explained to you.
What to Do if Your Police Clearance Shows HIT?
A police clearance marked with a HIT status requires the following action:
Inquire and Request Clarification
Get clarification on the HIT status by contacting the local police station or issuing authority. They will ask for additional documents if it’s a case of mistaken identity.
Provide Supporting Documents
A mismatch in personal details or an ongoing investigation may require you to submit additional documents such as government-issued IDs, proof of address, or even a police report if the HIT status is due to an ongoing investigation.
Clear Your Name
You may need to request a record correction from the police or relevant authorities if you discover the HIT status was caused by a pending case or criminal record belonging to someone else.
Follow Up Regularly
Follow up with the authorities after submitting your supporting documents or requesting a solution to ensure your case is being handled. Depending on the complexity of the problem, this process may take time.
Impact of HIT Status on Police Clearance Applications
The verification of your police clearance can be delayed if you have a HIT status, since it often requires further investigation or the submission of additional documents. Depending on how quickly you resolve the issue, the delay may vary. If you need the clearance urgently, for example, for a job application or travel, this can be a significant setback.
Moreover, HIT status does not guarantee you do not have a criminal record. HIT flags may appear for many people with common names or similar details, but they may not be facing any legal issues.
How to Avoid HIT Status in the Future?
Follow these tips to minimize the chances of facing a HIT status in the future:
- Double-Check Your Details: Please ensure that the details you provide on your clearance application (such as your name, address, and birthdate) are accurate and complete. There is a possibility that a minor error could lead to unnecessary complications.
- Use Full Names: To avoid confusion with others with similar first and last names, always use your full legal name (first, middle, and last).
- Provide Accurate Identification: Provide your government-issued ID (such as a passport, driver’s license, or SSS ID) during the application process.
- Be Aware of Common Names: To avoid future mistakes, make sure to check your application details with the authorities carefully if your name is common in the Philippines.
FAQs About Resolve a Police Clearance HIT Status
Conclusion
Your police clearance may have a HIT status, which can be confusing and slow, but that doesn’t mean it’s over. You can resolve the issue smoothly by understanding why it occurs and what you can do about it.
Follow the necessary steps to clear any flags on your record, always make sure your details are accurate, and stay patient. Stay informed and proactive so your police clearance can be processed as quickly as possible.