Having a valid ID in the Philippines is important to make transactions with both private and government offices. Most institutions require a primary and a secondary valid ID to start processing transactions like applying for a personal loan, opening a bank account, and claiming discounts, just to name a few. And yes, a valid government-issued ID is also a requirement to apply for another valid ID, as in the case of a passport application.
In short, it’s important to have a valid ID in the Philippines. And even though the national ID registration[1] is well underway, you might still not have secured yours. If you have no valid ID yet or don’t have enough valid IDs, you need to apply for a different identification card that will also be accepted as a valid ID.
With public agencies now allowing the processing of valid government IDs in the Philippines again, it’s easier and quicker to get one. What are considered valid IDs in the Philippines? Check out this complete list.
List of Valid IDs in the Philippines
A valid ID in the Philippines is more than just a proof of your identity. It’s also a requirement for transactions that will allow you to access different benefits, privileges, and opportunities.
1. Philippine Passport
Passports are not just required to travel outside the Philippines. A Philippine passport is also a powerful valid government-issued ID in the Philippines that you can use in private and government-related transactions.
Apply for a passport through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website. To avoid delay and inconvenience, secure an appointment slot months before your trip.
- Validity: 10 years
- Passport fees[2] and charges:
- ₱950 for regular processing, which takes around 12 days
- ₱1,200 for expedited processing, which takes a maximum of six days within Metro Manila and seven days if you applied at consular offices in the provinces.
- ₱350 additional application fee for the replacement of lost or mutilated passports
- Requirements:
- Confirmed online appointment
- Duly filled application form
- Original and photocopy of birth certificate and/or marriage certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
- Valid government-issued ID
Passport Application FAQS
1. Can I process my passport application online?
No. You can only book your online appointment. You’ll be required to appear in person at your chosen consular office and bring your supporting documents and other requirements.
2. Will a birth/marriage certificate issued by the local civil registrar be accepted instead of the PSA-issued certificates?
Yes. Sometimes a birth certificate or marriage certificate from your local civil registrar is required if the prints on your PSA certificate are not legible.
3. Is there a penalty for losing or damaging a valid passport?
You’ll not be penalized for losing or damaging a valid Philippine passport. But you may need to pay more and wait longer before your new passport will be issued. Applications for lost or damaged valid passports charge an additional ₱350 and require 15 days of clearing.
4. Is there a delivery charge for new passports?
Yes. The delivery charge is not included in the passport application fee and depends on your choice of courier.
2. Driver’s License
There are three types of driver’s licenses in the Philippines: student license permit, non-professional, and professional. Issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), these three licenses are also considered government-issued IDs.
If you’re planning to drive or purchase a vehicle, make sure to get your license at an LTO branch near you or through the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) portal.[3]
- Validity:
- Student Permit - 1 year
- Non-Professional - 3 years
- Professional - 5 years or 10 years
- Driver’s license fees and charges:
- Student Permit - ₱317.63
- Non-Professional - ₱685
- Professional: ₱685
- Requirements
- Driver’s License Application Form
- Original and photocopy of PSA-authenticated birth certificate and/or marriage certificate
- Tax Identification Number
- Medical examination certificate
- Theoretical driving course certificate
Driver’s License Application FAQS
1. What are the additional requirements for applicants that are below 18 years old?
Applicants below 18 years old should also submit a notarized parent’s consent and a copy of the parent or guardian’s valid government-issued ID.
2. How do you apply for a driver’s license with 10-year validity?
LTO automatically renews your driver’s license with 10-year validity if you have not incurred any violations prior to your renewal.[4]
3. What happens if I have traffic violations?
You’ll not be entitled to a driver’s license that’s valid for ten years, and you’ll be required to take the Comprehensive Driver’s Education exam.
3. PhilHealth ID
A PhilHealth ID is one of the easiest valid IDs to acquire compared to others on this list of valid IDs.
- Validity: Lifetime
- PhilHealth ID fees and charges: None
- Requirements
- Duly-filled PhilHealth Member Registration Form
- 1 x 1 ID picture (2 pieces)
- Photopcy of PSA-authenticated birth certificate and/or marriage certificate
- Two valid government-issued IDs
If you want to know more about the PhilHealth ID application, read more on how to get one easily here.
4. SSS UMID Card
The Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID) is a four-in-one identification card issued by the Social Security System or SSS. It’s one of the most powerful valid government IDs in the Philippines as it also serves as a Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG ID.
- Validity: Lifetime
- UMID ID fees and charges: None for initial application; ₱200 for replacement of lost cards
- Requirements
- Duly-filled UMID application form
- A copy of one valid government-issued ID
SSS members with at least one posted contribution are qualified to apply for an SSS UMID card.
5. Postal ID
Did you know that anyone can apply for a Postal ID? Issued by PHLPost,[5] this identification card is one of the easiest and fastest to obtain government IDs in the Philippines. Use it to validate your identity and address when transacting with private and government offices.
You can now apply for a Postal ID with new physical security features for easier and more reliable ID verification.
- Validity: 3 years
- Postal ID fees and charges:
- ₱504 which includes ₱450 ID fee and delivery fee, and ₱54 VAT
- Requirements:
- Two copies of duly-accomplished Postal ID application form
- Proof of identity and address
Postal ID Application FAQS
1. Why should I apply for the improved Postal ID?
The Basic Postal ID can only be deciphered by select special equipment. But the improved Postal ID is now equipped with new security features and can be easily identified and verified by the naked eye. Take note that the Department of Foreign Affairs only accepts Postal IDs issued from 2016 onwards as a valid ID.
2. What will happen to my basic Postal ID?
Your basic Postal ID will be valid until the indicated expiration and may need to be replaced with the improved Postal ID.
3. How soon can I receive my improved Postal ID?
You’ll receive your improved Postal ID as soon as possible, depending on your location:
- 15 working days after your application if you’re residing within Metro Manila
- 20 working days after your application if you’re residing in major cities and municipalities
- 30 working days after your application if you’re located in island provinces
6. TIN ID
Taxpayers are not required to carry their Tax Identification Number with a TIN ID. But having one can help you with various transactions such as opening a bank account, sending money abroad, or receiving a package. This is one of the ideal valid IDs in the Philippines for employees.
To get a TIN ID, visit any Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) office and submit the required documents. Take note that the TIN ID is free.[6]
- Validity: Lifetime
- TIN ID fees and charges: None upon initial issuance but ₱100 for replacement
- Requirements:
- Duly accomplished BIR Form 1902 or 1904 form
- 1 valid government-issued ID
- Marriage certificate if applicable
- PSA Birth Certificate
7. Voter’s ID
Government offices and private entities honor the voter’s ID as a valid government-issued ID in the Philippines since it’s issued by one of the most powerful agencies in the country, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
However, COMELEC has stopped issuing voter’s ID cards since 2017 because of the national ID system implementation.[7]
Read more: COMELEC Registration Guide 2022: How to Check Your Voter Status and Find Your Precinct
8. NBI Clearance
The NBI Clearance is physically and technically not an ID. However, some institutions consider it a valid ID due to the stringent application process you undergo before getting one.
- Validity: Up to 1 year
- NBI Clearance fees and charges:
- ₱130 and an additional ₱25 for e-payment services, if applicable
- Requirements:
- 2 valid government-issued IDs
9. PRC ID
Licensed professionals such as accountants, engineers, architects, dentists, and doctors, among many others, should have a PRC ID, one of the most recognized valid IDs in the Philippines. Issued by the Professional Regulation Commission, PRC IDs serve as proof of identity and license to operate as a professional. Learn how to get a PRC ID in this guide.
- Validity: Up to 3 years
- PRC ID fees and charges:
- For professions requiring a baccalaureate degree: ₱150 per year or ₱450 for three years
- For professions requiring a non-baccalaureate degree: ₱140 per year or a total of ₱420 for three years
- An additional ₱30 for a baccalaureate degree and ₱28 for a non- baccalaureate degree if PIC is renewed 20 days after birth month
- Requirements:
- Duly accomplished application form
- One passport size picture on white background with a full name tag
- CPD units earned
- Special Power of Attorney and valid ID if filed through a representative
10. Senior Citizen ID
Once you reach the age of 60, one of the things you can enjoy is having a Senior Citizen ID. Seniors bearing this kind of ID can enjoy a 20% discount on fast-food chains, department stores, pharmacies, public transportation, medical and dental services, and admission to theaters, concerts, and cinemas. Really, it’s one of the best government-issued IDs out there.
To get one, just go to your municipality's Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs and apply.
- Validity: Lifetime
- Senior Citizen ID fees and charges: None, but some municipalities may ask for a fee should you apply for a replacement
- Requirements:
- Application form from the Office of the Senior Citizen’s Affairs (OSCA)
- Birth certificate or any proof of the applicant’s age
- Valid ID
- Proof of Residency
Read more: Senior Citizen Discount and Benefits Plus Important Facts You Might Not Know
11. OWWA OFW e-Card
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) encourages Overseas Filipino Workers to get an OFW ID called the OWWA OFW e-Card to assist them with banking and government-related transactions. Though not mandated, the OFW ID is one of the best valid IDs in the Philippines.
To secure one, just make an account on DOLE’s website, apply for an OFW ID, and choose if you want to pick up your ID or have it delivered. Some banks and government institutions require a secondary ID to further validate a person’s identity. Be prepared by having any secondary valid IDs below.
- Validity: 2 years
- OWWA OFW e-Card fees and charges: None
- Requirements:
- Overseas Employment Certificate
- 2 valid government-issued IDs
12. National ID
Also called PhilSys ID or Phil ID, the national ID is a valid proof of identity in the Philippines, as mandated by Republic Act 11055 or the Philippine Identification System Act. Thus, if you already have one, your national ID should be accepted in all private and government transactions. Establishments and offices that refuse to honor the Phil ID card will be fined up to ₱500,000.[8]
The Phil ID application starts online through register.philsys.gov.ph. Once you’ve booked an appointment, go to your assigned registration center to complete your national ID application process.
- Validity: Lifetime
- National ID fees and charges: None
- Requirements:
- PSA-issued Birth Certificate
- Any valid government-issued ID
13. PWD ID
A PWD ID is also included in our list of valid IDs that are accepted in the Philippines. The PWD ID is issued to persons with disabilities and comes with privileges and benefits including discounts on purchases.
The PWD ID application can’t be done online but can be processed in some select government offices including the Persons with Disability Office (PDAO), City Municipal Health Office, and the Office of the Mayor.
- Validity: Lifetime
- PWD ID fees and charges: None
- Requirements:
- Duly accomplished PWD ID application form
- Any valid government-issued ID
- 2 1x1 ID picture
- Clinical abstract or medical certificate
List of Secondary Valid IDs in the Philippines
Below is a list of valid IDs that can serve as secondary IDs. Not all institutions accept these IDs, but they may come in handy when you need to make a transaction. These secondary valid IDs include:
Other secondary valid IDs include:
- GSIS ID – issued by the Government Services and Insurance Corporation (GSIS)
- IBP ID – issued by the Integrated Bar of the Philippines
- Diplomat ID – issued by the Philippine Embassy
- GOCC and Government Office ID – issued by a branch or agency of the government
- Alien Certification of Registration
- Seaman’s Book - issued by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)
- Company ID - issued by duly-registered private institutions
How to Get a Valid ID in the Philippines Fast and Hassle-Free
Ready to get your valid ID in the Philippines? Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Start with the Easiest ID to Get
Postal ID, NBI Clearance, UMID, and passport are four of the easiest valid IDs to acquire. The requirements aren’t as many as compared to other government IDs in the Philippines. For these valid IDs, you only need proof of identities such as your birth certificate and a document that proves your address, like Barangay Clearance.
2. Prepare the Application Forms in Advance
It’s true; we’ve been there. Queuing in government offices takes a lifetime, so it’s best to download the application forms online and fill them out in advance. And since most of the government offices don’t provide enough tables and chairs, you also avoid the hassle of looking for a place where you can fill out your application form.
3. Double Check Your Requirements Before Leaving Home
Create a checklist of requirements and review them before heading to your planned government office. It will save you time and effort going back and forth just because you don't have the complete requirements.
4. Apply for a Valid ID Online, If Possible
Lastly, choose to apply online to shorten the application process. Several agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs, SSS, PSA, and NBI allow applicants to register for a valid ID online. Visit their websites for more information.
Final Thoughts
Applying for any valid government ID in the Philippines may cost you time and money. But a valid ID is a very helpful thing to have when doing transactions with banks, financial institutions, government agencies, and more. Not only are these IDs useful for banking and government transactions, you can also present them as a valid ID for getting your COVID-19 vaccine in the Philippines.
So, if you don’t have any of these IDs yet, maybe it’s time to apply for one to start enjoying more benefits and privileges.
Sources:
- [1] Online Step 1 Registration (Philippine Identification System, 2022)
- [2] Passport Schedule of Fees (DFA, 2022)
- [3] Land Transportation Management System Portal
- [4] Nationwide Issuance of 10-Year Drivers' Licenses Slated Dec (PNA, 2021)
- [5] The Improved Postal ID
- [6] Application for Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
- [7] Voter ID Generation and Distribution (COMELEC, 2017)
- [8] Refusal to accept PhilID as proof of identity illegal (Philippine News Agency, 2021)
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