How Ankored Tracks PA Clearances
Pennsylvania clearances are set up in Ankored as File Requirements. This means each user will:
Receive a unique URL to access their requirement
Upload their clearance document through that link
Trigger an automatic notification to admins for review and approval
As an admin, you'll be able to review, approve, and track all submitted clearances directly in the platform.
Required Pennsylvania Clearances
To volunteer or work as a coach in Pennsylvania, individuals must obtain and submit ALL THREE of the following clearances:
1. PA Child Abuse History Clearance
Obtained through: Department of Human Services (DHS)
Apply online at: www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis
Cost: Free for volunteers
Valid for: 5 years
2. PA State Police Criminal History Check
Also called: PA Criminal Background Check
Apply online at: https://epatch.pa.gov/home
Cost: Free for volunteers (use code "volunteer")
Valid for: 5 years
3. FBI Fingerprint-Based Criminal History Check
Where to apply: https://uenroll.identogo.com
Required for: All coaches
Exception: PA residents who have lived continuously in Pennsylvania for the past 10 years may submit an exemption affidavit instead of the FBI check
Schedule fingerprinting through: An approved vendor (Identogo or equivalent)
Cost: Approximately $27-30 for volunteers
Valid for: 5 years
Important Notes
Coaches cannot begin coaching until all three clearances (or the exemption affidavit for requirement #3, if applicable) have been submitted and approved
Processing time: Please allow 2-4 weeks for clearances to be processed
All clearances are valid for 5 years from the date of issue
Disclaimer
This document is provided for informational purposes only. The information contained herein represents general guidance based on publicly available Pennsylvania state requirements and is not intended as legal advice or a comprehensive statement of all applicable laws and regulations.
Ankored does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currency of this information. Clearance requirements may vary by jurisdiction, organization type, and role, and may change without notice.
It is the sole responsibility of your organization to verify all applicable legal requirements with appropriate legal counsel and relevant state agencies.
Ankored provides software tools to help organizations track compliance requirements but does not assume any responsibility or liability for your organization's compliance with federal, state, or local laws. Your use of Ankored does not replace your obligation to understand and comply with all applicable legal requirements for your organization and jurisdiction.
For definitive guidance on Pennsylvania clearance requirements, please consult with qualified legal counsel and/or contact the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services directly.