DCI to Roll Out New Digital System to Fast-Track Good Conduct Certificates
The agency described the upgrade as a major milestone in service delivery, noting that it will provide applicants with a faster, smarter and more seamless experience.
Photo: Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has announced plans to launch a new digital platform aimed at significantly reducing the time taken to process Police Clearance Certificates, popularly known as Certificates of Good Conduct.
In a statement issued on July 15, the agency said it will officially roll out the Multi-Biometric Identification System (MBIS) – ABIS Version 5 on Monday, July 20, 2026.
According to the DCI, the new system is designed to modernize the issuance of clearance certificates by integrating advanced biometric technology to enhance efficiency and speed.
The agency described the upgrade as a major milestone in service delivery, noting that it will provide applicants with a faster, smarter and more seamless experience.
The DCI said the technology is expected to eliminate the long waiting periods that have traditionally characterized the application process.
“DCI is set to revolutionize how you get your Police Clearance Certificate (Certificate of Good Conduct). Starting Monday, July 20, 2026, we roll out the Multi-Biometric Identification System (MBIS)-ABIS Version 5, a game-changing platform built to fast-track processing and deliver faster, smarter service. No longer waits. Better technology. Better experience,” the agency said in its statement.
What is MBIS-ABIS Version 5?
MBIS stands for Multi-Biometric Identification System, while ABIS refers to Automated Biometric Identification System.
Unlike the older system that relied primarily on fingerprint matching, the new platform can process and compare multiple biometric identifiers, including fingerprints, palm prints and facial images.
Under the new system, applicants will still be required to apply through the eCitizen platform and have their fingerprints captured at Huduma Centres or DCI offices.
The DCI said MBIS-ABIS Version 5 will deploy advanced matching algorithms to search and verify records more quickly and accurately, thereby accelerating the background check process before certificates are issued.
While the agency has assured Kenyans of reduced turnaround times, it has not yet disclosed the exact processing period under the upgraded system. More details on the platform and any changes in procedure are expected during the official launch on July 20.
Current Process
Currently, applicants for a Certificate of Good Conduct must first submit their application via eCitizen and pay the prescribed fee.
They are then required to visit a DCI office or a designated Huduma Centre where officers capture their fingerprints using a digital scanner.
The fingerprints are checked against the DCI’s criminal database to establish whether the applicant has any criminal record. Upon successful verification, the certificate is issued to applicants with no disqualifying criminal history.
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