> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.cleartax.in/product-help-and-support/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.cleartax.in/product-help-and-support/for-large-businesses/cleartax-e-invoicing-belgium/introduction/clear-access-point.md).

# Clear Access Point

A business cannot connect to the Peppol network directly. Connection is only possible through a certified Peppol Access Point (AP), which acts as a secure gateway to the network.

**ClearTax is a certified Peppol Access Point.**

As your certified Access Point, the ClearTax platform handles all the technical complexities of e-invoicing compliance:

* **Format Validation**: Automatically ensures every invoice created or imported adheres to the strict Peppol BIS 3.0 standard.
* **Secure Transmission:** Manages the secure exchange of documents using required protocols (like AS4).
* **Peppol Directory (SMP) Lookup**: Before sending, ClearTax automatically looks up the recipient's Peppol ID in the Service Metadata Publisher (SMP) directory to find their registered Access Point and confirm they can receive the document.