The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is set to introduce a new biometric identification platform aimed at significantly improving the processing of Police Clearance Certificates, commonly known as Certificates of Good Conduct.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the DCI announced that it will officially roll out the Multi-Biometric Identification System (MBIS)-ABIS Version 5 on Monday, July 20, 2026, describing it as a major step towards faster, more efficient service delivery.

According to the agency, the upgraded platform has been designed to streamline the processing of Police Clearance Certificates by leveraging advanced biometric technology.

The DCI said the new system will reduce waiting times and enhance the overall customer experience for thousands of applicants seeking the certificates for employment, travel, education and other official purposes.

The agency, however, did not specify how much processing times would be reduced, noting only that the system is intended to deliver “faster, smarter service” and promising to release more details during the official launch next week.

The latest upgrade builds on the government’s broader efforts to modernise the issuance of Police Clearance Certificates through digital technology.

In recent months, lawmakers have also proposed reforms that would allow the DCI to reuse applicants’ previously captured biometric data during certificate renewals, a move intended to eliminate repeated fingerprint submissions, reduce congestion at service centres and speed up processing.

Police Clearance Certificates are among the most sought-after government documents in Kenya, with many employers, academic institutions and foreign missions requiring them as proof that an applicant has no criminal record.

Applications are currently processed through the DCI’s eCitizen platform, with fingerprint capture conducted at designated Huduma Centres, DCI headquarters and other approved collection points.