Overview

A clearance letter is a formal document from us. It states that an individual doesn't have an arrest record with the Minneapolis Police Department.

This document is notarized, certified and printed on department letterhead.

View a sample clearance letter

Reasons to request

You may want to get a clearance letter if you plan to:

• Adopt
• Work overseas
• Apply for a student visa
• Apply for a job
• Become a U.S. citizen

How to request a clearance letter

You can request a clearance letter by mail or in person.

By mail

Mail your request and payment to the Records Information Unit.

Along with a note or letter requesting a clearance letter, you must send:

• A photocopy of valid ID, for example, a driver’s license, state ID or passport
• A check or money order for $5.00 payable to City of Minneapolis
• A self-addressed, stamped envelope

Please allow five to 10 business days for us to process mailed requests.

In person

Go to the Records Information Unit.

What to bring:

• Valid photo identification (ID), for example, a driver’s license, state ID or passport
• $5.00 cash, check or money order payable to the City of Minneapolis (we don't accept credit cards)