Philippine National Police (PNP) Entrance and Promotional Exams Guide
The Philippine National Police (PNP) maintains high standards when selecting, evaluating, and promoting police officers to ensure competence, integrity, and professionalism across all units. For aspiring police officers and currently serving personnel, the PNP Entrance Examination and Promotional Examinations administered through the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) are essential milestones.
This comprehensive guide explains qualifications, application procedures, exam coverage, tips, and what to expect throughout the process—helping you prepare effectively and increase your chances of passing.
Overview of PNP Entrance and Promotional Examinations
The PNP entrance and promotional exams are national-level assessments conducted by NAPOLCOM to determine applicants’ readiness for police service or higher ranks. The two main categories are:
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PNP Entrance Examination – for civilians and Patrolman/Patrolwoman applicants.
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PNP Promotional Examinations – for active-duty PNP personnel aspiring for higher ranks (from Police Officer to Police Lieutenant Colonel and above).
These standardized tests measure knowledge, skills, and aptitude in law enforcement, administration, and public safety.
What Is the PNP Entrance Examination?
The PNP Entrance Exam is designed for those who want to join the Philippine National Police with the rank of Patrolman/Patrolwoman. Passing the exam is one of the mandatory requirements under the PNP Entrance Eligibility rules.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must meet:
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Age requirement: At least 21 but not more than 30 years old.
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Education: Bachelor’s degree holder.
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Citizenship: Filipino citizen.
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Height requirement: Currently relaxed; most height requirements are removed under the PNP law, but some units may still require minimum height depending on assignment.
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Good moral character: No conviction involving moral turpitude.
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No dishonorable discharge or administrative case from previous employment in government or uniformed service.
Schedule of PNP Entrance Exam
NAPOLCOM typically announces exam schedules twice a year. Applicants must monitor:
Slots fill fast due to limited testing centers, so early registration is strongly advised once applications open.
How to Apply for the PNP Entrance Exam
Application is now mostly done through the NAPOLCOM Online Registration System (NORIS). The basic steps are:
Step 1: Online Registration
Step 2: Choose Exam Category and Testing Center
Select:
Slots are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step 3: Print and Bring Required Documents for Verification
You will usually need:
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Printed online confirmation
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Two valid government-issued IDs
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Recent passport-size photos
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Proof of educational attainment (diploma or TOR)
Step 4: Pay Exam Fee
The examination fee is typically ₱400. Rates may change depending on new policies.
Step 5: Wait for the Notice of Admission (NOA)
Your NOA will be issued during the verification process or electronically depending on the system used in your region.
PNP Entrance Exam Coverage
The exam covers several areas essential for entry-level policing. These include:
1. General Information
2. Verbal Reasoning
3. Quantitative Reasoning
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Basic math
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Word problems
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Statistics
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Number patterns
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Problem-solving
4. Logical Reasoning
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Pattern recognition
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Analytical reasoning
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Syllogisms
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Data interpretation
The test is multiple-choice and time-limited, requiring both accuracy and speed.
What Is the PNP Promotional Examination?
The Promotional Exam is exclusively for uniformed PNP personnel seeking advancement to higher ranks. Promotion is performance-based and seniority-bound, and passing the exam is a core requirement.
Coverage Includes:
Promotional exams increase in difficulty depending on the rank you are applying for.
Eligibility for Promotional Examinations by Rank
Below is a simplified guide to typical rank eligibility:
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Police Officer / Patrolman/Patrolwoman → Police Corporal
Must have completed required training and service years.
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Police Corporal → Police Staff Sergeant
Must meet minimum experience and performance evaluation.
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Police Staff Sergeant → Police Master Sergeant
Requires continuing professional development and training.
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Police Master Sergeant → Police Senior Master Sergeant / Police Chief Master Sergeant
Must show leadership, operational readiness, and satisfactory service records.
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Police Lieutenant / Captain → Police Major / Lieutenant Colonel
Must demonstrate advanced supervisory and command competencies.
Each rank requires meeting specific training, educational, and service length requirements.
Application Requirements for Promotional Examination
To apply, PNP personnel must submit:
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Authenticated Personal Data Sheet (PDS)
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Certificate of Eligibility for Promotion
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Latest appointment or promotion order
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Performance evaluation documents
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Unit clearance (administrative and criminal)
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Training certificates related to rank requirements
Applications are submitted through the NAPOLCOM Regional Office handling your assigned area.
PNP Promotional Exam Application Procedure
Step 1: Secure Required Documents
Ensure all paperwork is complete and updated.
Step 2: Register via NORIS
Upload documents and select test category and location.
Step 3: Verify at Regional Office
Bring original documents for checking.
Step 4: Pay the Examination Fee
Generally ₱400 – ₱600 depending on category.
Step 5: Receive the Notice of Admission
This contains your exam room, testing center, and schedule.
PNP Promotional Exam Coverage
The subjects included generally revolve around operational, administrative, and legal concerns in policing:
Police Administration
Police Operations
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Operational procedures
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Patrol operations
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Crime prevention
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Traffic management
Criminal Investigation
Law and Jurisprudence
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Revised Penal Code
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Special laws
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Rules of Court
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Police ethics
Values and Leadership
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Public service ethics
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Decision-making
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Conflict resolution
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Professional conduct
How to Prepare for the PNP Entrance and Promotional Exams
1. Start Studying Early
Allocate at least 4–8 weeks of study time.
2. Use Reliable Review Materials
Recommended sources include:
3. Focus on Weak Areas
Identify which subjects you struggle with—logical reasoning, math, law, etc.—and dedicate extra time to improving them.
4. Practice Time Management
The test is time-pressured, so completing mock exams is crucial.
5. Stay Updated on Current Events
Includes national issues, public safety developments, and government policies.
6. Review PNP Manuals and Guidelines (for Promotional Exams)
Promotional examinees should review:
What to Bring on the Exam Day
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Notice of Admission (NOA)
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Valid government-issued ID
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Two black ballpoint pens
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Snacks and water
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Transparent bag
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Personal alcohol or sanitizer
Electronic gadgets, notes, and calculators are prohibited.
PNP Exam Passing Score and Results
Passing Score
A minimum of 70% is required to pass both entrance and promotional exams.
Release of Results
Results are posted:
Depending on the testing period, results may come out within 2–3 months.
After Passing the PNP Entrance Exam
Passing does NOT automatically guarantee recruitment. You must still go through the PNP recruitment process, which includes:
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Physical Agility Test (PAT)
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Psychological and Psychiatric Evaluation (PPE)
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Medical and Dental Screening
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Background Investigation
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Final Interview
Once cleared, recruits proceed to Basic Recruit Training.
After Passing the PNP Promotional Exam
Passing the exam does not automatically result in promotion. Promotion is based on:
Promotions are often processed at the unit or regional level.
Common Reasons for Disqualification or Delays
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Incomplete documents
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Failed background investigation
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Failed medical or psychological test
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Administrative cases
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Incorrect personal information submitted in the system
Always ensure accuracy and honesty in your submissions.
Final Tips and Reminders
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Monitor NAPOLCOM announcements regularly.
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Submit documents early and prepare multiple copies.
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Keep physical and mental health in check.
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Practice discipline—this is essential for serving in the police force.
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For promotional exams, build a strong service record over time.
Whether you are entering the police service or advancing your rank, preparation, discipline, and dedication will significantly improve your chances of success.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the difference between the PNP Entrance Exam and the PNP Promotional Exam?
The PNP Entrance Exam is for civilians and qualified applicants who want to join the Philippine National Police as Patrolman or Patrolwoman. The PNP Promotional Exam is exclusively for active-duty PNP personnel who are seeking promotion to a higher rank. Coverage, eligibility, and documentary requirements are different for each exam type.
Does passing the PNP Entrance Exam guarantee automatic appointment as a police officer?
No. Passing the PNP Entrance Exam only grants you the necessary eligibility for entry into the PNP. You must still pass the full recruitment process, including physical agility tests, medical and psychological examinations, background investigation, and final interview. Appointment depends on available quotas and successful completion of all these stages.
How often are the PNP Entrance and Promotional Exams held?
Traditionally, NAPOLCOM conducts these exams about twice a year, but the exact schedule can change depending on policy, budget, or public safety conditions. Applicants should always refer to official announcements from NAPOLCOM or the PNP for the latest examination dates, deadlines, and application procedures before making any plans.
Can I take the PNP Entrance Exam even if I am still a college student?
The usual requirement is that you must be a bachelor’s degree holder when you apply for the PNP Entrance Exam, especially if you intend to use the eligibility for appointment. Some announcements may specify conditions for graduating students, but as a general rule you should have completed your degree before taking or using the eligibility.
Is there an age limit for taking the PNP Entrance Exam?
Yes. The common guideline is that applicants should be at least 21 years old but not more than 30 years old at the time of appointment to the PNP. Since age rules may be updated by law or implementing guidelines, it is important to verify the current age requirement directly from official sources.
Are height requirements still strictly enforced for PNP applicants?
Height restrictions have been relaxed in recent years, and some previous minimum height requirements have been removed or adjusted. However, specialized units or certain assignments may still have specific physical standards. Applicants should always consult the latest implementing rules or recruitment announcements to confirm the current height and fitness requirements.
What subjects should I focus on when preparing for the PNP Entrance Exam?
For the PNP Entrance Exam, you should review general information (Constitution, criminal justice system, human rights, and PNP laws), verbal reasoning (grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension), quantitative reasoning (basic math and word problems), and logical reasoning (analytical and pattern recognition). Time management and familiarity with multiple-choice formats are also critical.
How is the PNP Promotional Exam different in terms of coverage?
The PNP Promotional Exam focuses more on police administration, police operations, criminal investigation, law and jurisprudence, and leadership or ethics, with the level of difficulty increasing for higher ranks. Questions are designed to test decision-making, command responsibility, and application of policies rather than basic aptitude or general knowledge alone.
What is the passing score for the PNP Entrance and Promotional Exams?
Both the PNP Entrance and Promotional Exams typically require a minimum rating of 70% to pass. However, meeting the passing score does not automatically mean appointment or promotion. For entrance, you must still complete the recruitment process. For promotion, you must satisfy seniority, performance, training, and quota requirements.
How can I register for the exam using the NAPOLCOM Online Registration System (NORIS)?
You must create an account on the NORIS portal, fill out your personal information, choose the correct exam category (Entrance or Promotional), and select your preferred testing center. You will then upload required documents and finalize your application. After online registration, you typically need to undergo on-site verification and pay the examination fee.
What documents are usually required on the examination day?
On exam day, you are usually required to bring your Notice of Admission (NOA), at least one valid government-issued ID, and black ballpoint pens. Some test centers may require additional documents such as photocopies of IDs or supporting forms. Electronic devices, calculators, and reviewers are generally prohibited inside the examination room.
How long does it take for the exam results to be released?
The release of results may vary, but it commonly takes several weeks to a few months after the examination date. Results are usually posted on the official NAPOLCOM website and at regional offices. Because processing times can change, applicants should monitor official channels for announcements instead of relying on unofficial timelines or rumors.
What happens if I fail the PNP Entrance or Promotional Exam?
If you fail, you may retake the exam during the next testing cycle, provided you still meet the eligibility requirements (such as age limits in the case of the Entrance Exam). Use the time between attempts to strengthen weak areas, review more systematically, and practice with mock exams. There is no automatic disqualification from future applications solely for failing once.
Are review centers required to pass the PNP exams?
No, review centers are not required. Many candidates successfully pass through self-study using official laws, manuals, and practice tests. However, some examinees choose review centers for structured schedules and guidance. Whether you enroll in a center or not, the most important factors are consistent preparation, understanding the exam coverage, and staying updated with official policies.
Is the information about qualifications and fees permanent?
No. All policies—including exam fees, age limits, height requirements, coverage, and procedures—are subject to change through new laws, NAPOLCOM resolutions, or PNP guidelines. This FAQ is for general guidance only. Before applying, always confirm the latest rules, schedules, and rates directly from NAPOLCOM and PNP official communication channels.
