The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) has made it mandatory for serving government employees to obtain a Departmental Permission Certificate (DPC) or No Objection Certificate (NOC) before applying online for any post advertised by the commission.
In a public notice issued after some candidates expressed reservations on social media, the commission clarified that the requirement is in line with Rule 3(1) of the Government Servants (Application for Services and Positions) Rules, 1966. The rule obliges government employees to secure prior permission from their respective departments before applying for a new position.
The FPSC stated that the rules were not formulated by the commission itself. As a constitutional body, it said, the FPSC is bound to implement them in their true spirit and intent and will strictly adhere to the applicable legal framework.
According to the notice, the decision to enforce the rule was taken during the commission’s 174th meeting held on June 3, 2025. An advance notice was published on the FPSC website on August 1, 2025, and regular implementation began from September 1, 2025.
The commission further clarified that it does not have the authority to amend, relax or grant exceptions to the rules. The power to review, amend or interpret the rules rests with the relevant supervisory authority responsible for their formulation and administration.
The FPSC advised government employees facing difficulties in obtaining the required permission to approach their respective departments or the establishment division through proper legal procedures.
Reiterating its commitment to merit and transparency, the commission said it would ensure full compliance with applicable legal requirements at all stages of the recruitment process.