What is the SAPS 91(a) fingerprint enquiry form?

The SAPS 91(a) is the official form used by the South African Police Service to record your fingerprints when you apply for a police clearance certificate. It has spaces for rolled impressions of each individual finger and plain impressions of all ten fingers together. This form is separate from the police clearance application form.

Do I fill in the SAPS 91(a) myself?

Partially. The personal details section at the top of the form — your surname and full names, ID number, address, date of birth, race, gender, and any previous convictions — is completed by you before visiting the police station. You can use FillMeIn to fill and print this section in advance. The fingerprint recording section at the bottom is completed by a trained SAPS official at the police station, who takes rolled and plain impressions of all ten fingers.

Where do I get the SAPS 91(a) form?

The form is available at any South African Police Service station. You can also download it from FillMeIn and bring a printed copy. If you are abroad, the South African embassy or consulate can provide it, or fingerprints can be taken on the official forms of the country you are in.

Is the SAPS 91(a) the same as the police clearance application form?

No. These are two separate documents. The police clearance application form captures your personal details, reason for applying, and return address. The SAPS 91(a) is specifically for recording your fingerprints. Both forms are required and submitted together.

Can I take my own fingerprints on the SAPS 91(a)?

No. Fingerprints must be taken by a trained SAPS official at a police station, or by an authorised official at a South African embassy or consulate if you are abroad. Self-taken fingerprints will not be accepted.

What happens if my fingerprints are unclear on the SAPS 91(a)?

If the Criminal Record Centre cannot read your fingerprints, your application will be returned and you will need to have your fingerprints retaken at a police station. To avoid this, ensure your hands are clean and dry before fingerprinting.

How long does it take to process my police clearance after fingerprints are taken?

The official stated standard is approximately 15 working days from when all documents are received at the Criminal Record Centre in Pretoria. However, current backlogs mean many applicants wait 2 to 6 months — apply well before your deadline. Applications from abroad may take longer due to additional postal delays.

How much does a police clearance certificate cost?

The prescribed fee is R190 per application. Payment can be made in cash at the police station or electronically into the SAPS ABSA account (cheque account 4054522787, branch code 632005). Use "PCC" followed by your initials and surname as the payment reference.

SAPS 91(a) — Fingerprint Enquiry Form

South African Police Service · Verified 1 May 2026