Legal Help · Published January 20, 2026 · Updated October 22, 2026 · Reviewed by Legal Team DIGIT
FIR Checklist Pakistan: What to Bring and What to Verify Before You Sign
Getting an FIR "registered" and getting one properly completed aren't always the same thing. Here's exactly what a complete FIR must contain, and how to check yours actually is one before you walk out of the station.
Quick answer
Under Section 154 CrPC, a completed FIR records your details, the exact date/time/place, a clear factual narrative, details of the accused if known, the section(s) of law applied, and a formal FIR number — plus your signature or thumb impression on a narrative you've confirmed is accurate. You are entitled to a free copy. Confirm all of this before you leave the station, not after. Bring your CNIC, a written timeline and copies of evidence.
What a complete FIR must actually contain
Your full details as complainant
Name, CNIC number, address, and contact number — recorded accurately. A misspelled name or wrong CNIC digit can cause real problems later when the case moves to court.
The exact date, time, and place of the incident
Vague timing ("a few days ago, somewhere near the market") weakens an FIR. Give the most precise date, time, and location you can, and say clearly if you're estimating.
A clear, factual description of what happened
Stick to what you directly saw, heard, or experienced, in the order it happened. Avoid guessing at motives or legal conclusions — that's for investigation and trial, not the FIR narrative.
Names or descriptions of the accused, if known
If you don't know the person's name, a physical description, vehicle number, or any identifying detail still belongs in the FIR — you're not required to already know who did it.
The section(s) of law the officer records
The Station House Officer (SHO) decides which PPC section(s) apply based on your narrative — you can ask what section was recorded and note it down, but you're not expected to cite the law yourself.
Your signature or thumb impression, and the FIR number
Confirm the FIR has been assigned a number and book/register reference before you leave — an unnumbered or informally noted report is not a completed FIR.
What to bring, and what to check before you sign
- Bring your CNIC (or the informant's CNIC) and a phone number the police can reach you on.
- Bring a written, dated timeline of events, plus a spare copy for yourself.
- Bring copies of supporting evidence: photos, screenshots, CCTV clips, receipts, or the IMEI and purchase slip for a stolen phone. Keep the originals.
- Bring witness names and phone numbers, and vehicle registration numbers if any vehicle was involved.
- For injuries, bring any hospital or medical paperwork you already have.
- Before signing, check that names, CNIC, dates, place and the sequence of events match what you said, then confirm the FIR number and collect your free copy.
What Wakeel.org can help with
Helping you organize the facts of an incident into a clear, chronological narrative before you go to the station, and explaining what a complete FIR should contain, in plain English or Urdu.
What it cannot do
It cannot accompany you to the station, file the FIR on your behalf, or guarantee the police record it accurately — if the station pushes back, a licensed advocate is the right next step.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to file an FIR in Pakistan?
No document is legally required to report a cognizable offence, but bring your CNIC, a written timeline, copies of any evidence (photos, screenshots, receipts, IMEI for a phone), witness contacts and any medical papers. Keep the originals yourself.
Can I file an FIR without a CNIC?
The duty to record information about a cognizable offence doesn't depend on a CNIC. Stations usually record the informant's CNIC, though, so bring it or a copy if you can, and give whatever other identification and contact details you have.
Should I attach photos or screenshots to my FIR application?
Attach copies to your written application and keep the originals and digital files safe. The investigating officer may ask for originals later, and digital evidence may need to be preserved unedited.
What should I check on the FIR before signing?
Check that your name and CNIC are correct, the date, time and place are accurate, events are in the right order, and nothing you reported has been left out or softened. Ask for corrections before you sign. Afterwards, corrections are much harder.
What if the FIR records the wrong offence or leaves details out?
Point it out before signing. If it has already been registered, raise it in writing with a senior officer and give the full account to the investigating officer, who records further statements under Section 161 CrPC. A lawyer can advise on the next step.
Can Wakeel.org help me prepare my FIR documents?
Yes. Wakeel can turn your notes into a clear, dated account and a checklist of evidence to bring, in English or Urdu. It cannot file the FIR or check what the station records.
General educational information, not legal advice. See our full disclaimer.
Related FIR guides
How to Register an FIR in Pakistan: Complete Guide
Start here: the full FIR journey in one page
At the Police Station: What Happens When You File an FIR
The in-person walkthrough, desk to signed copy
FIR Myths vs Facts in Pakistan
Misconceptions corrected, rights listed
How to Check FIR Status Online in Pakistan
Tracking your case after registration
About to file an FIR?
Describe what happened and Wakeel will help you organize it into a clear narrative — so you walk in prepared and walk out with a properly completed FIR.