16 Valid IDs in the Philippines You Need to Have
Published: May 22, 2021 | Updated: July 23, 2021 | Posted by: Moneymax | Government Services
Nowadays, it’s important to have at least two valid IDs in the Philippines. Private and government institutions usually ask to see one before pushing through with simple to major transactions like paying for bills or opening a bank account.
And since we’re still months (or years) away from the release of the national ID, you’ll have to secure the following IDs one by one. Level up your #adulting game by collecting these valid IDs.
Table of Contents
Primary Valid IDs in the Philippines
| ID Type | Validity | Price | Where to Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport | 10 years | PHP 950 or PHP 1,200 | DFA |
| Driver's License | 5 years | PHP 320 to PHP 820 | LTO |
| UMID | Lifetime | Free | SSS |
| PhilHealth ID | Lifetime | Free | PhilHealth |
| TIN ID | Lifetime | Free | BIR |
| Postal ID | Lifetime | Free | Postal Office |
| Voter's ID | Indefinite | Free | COMELEC |
| PRC ID | 5 years | PHP 300 to PHP 600 | PRC |
| Senior Citizen ID | Lifetime | Free | Municipal Office |
| OFW ID | 2 years | Free | OWWA |
1. Philippine Passport
Passports are not just useful when traveling overseas. A Philippine passport is also a powerful identification card that you can use in private- and government-related transactions.
Where to Get a Philippine Passport?
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. Philippine passports have a 10-year validity and cost PHP 950 to PHP 1,250.
2. Driver’s License
There are three types of driver’s license in the Philippines: student license permit, non-professional, and professional. Issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), these three kinds of licenses are also considered government-issued IDs.
Where to Get a Driver’s License?
If you’re planning to drive or purchase a vehicle, make sure to get one at an LTO branch near you or through their online portal[1]. A license costs PHP 318 to PHP 820 and is valid for five years.
Read more: How to Get a Driver’s License in the Philippines
3. PhilHealth ID
PhilHealth members need to present their PhilHealth ID before claiming any PhilHealth benefits. Getting one is simple and won’t cost you a single cent. Yes, getting this government ID is free charge.
Where to Get a PhilHealth ID?
Just submit two accomplished copies of the PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF), along with two 1×1 ID pictures, and two valid IDs to receive your PhilHealth ID at any PhilHealth Local Insurance Office (LHIO).
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 is one of the most powerful Philippines valid ID as it also serves as a Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG ID.
Where to Get UMID?
To get one, simply download and fill out a UMID card application form and submit necessary documents to the SSS. Here’s a step-by-step guide on getting a UMID in the Philippines.
5. Postal ID
Do you know that anyone can apply for a Postal ID? Issued by PHLPost[2], 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.
Where to Get Postal ID?
To apply for a Postal ID, visit any PHLPost branch and bring the following requirements:
- Two (2) copies of duly-accomplished PID application form
- Proof of identity (NSO-issued birth certificate, SSS UMID card, Passport, or Driver’s License)
- Proof of address (Barangay Certificate of Residency, Certified True Copy of Lease, Bank Statement)
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.
Where to Get TIN ID?
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[3].
7. Voter’s ID
Are you a registered voter? If yes, then you qualify for a Voter’s ID. Government offices and private entities recognize this ID since it is issued by one of the most powerful agencies in the country, the Commission on Elections or COMELEC. Securing a Voter’s ID, however, takes months or even years to process as it entails a fingerprint-matching procedure that filters over 52 million voter records.
Read more: #MagpaRehistroKa: COMELEC Registration 2021 Guide for Voters
8. 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.
9. 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.
Where to Get a Senior Citizen ID?
To get one, just go to your municipal’s Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs and apply.
Read more: Senior Citizen Discount and Benefits Plus Important Facts You Might Not Know
10. OFW ID
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) encourages Overseas Filipino Workers to get an OFW ID 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.
Where to Get an OFW ID?
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.
Secondary Valid IDs in the Philippines
Below is a list of valid IDs that can serve as a secondary ID. Not all institutions accept these IDs but they may come handy when you need to fulfill a transaction.
| ID Type | Validity | Price | Where to Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBI Clearance | 6 months to 1 year | PHP 155 | NBI |
| Police Clearance | 6 months | PHP 160 | Nearest Police Station |
| Barangay Clearance | Varies | Varies | Barangay Hall |
| Birth Certificate | Lifetime | PHP 330 | PSA |
| Marriage Certificate | Lifetime | PHP 330 | PSA |
| Community Tax Certificate (Cedula) | 1 year | Minimum of PHP 5 | City or Municipa Hall |
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
Read more about secondary IDs in the Philippines:
- NBI Clearance Online Application: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
- Police Clearance Online Application Guide for Filipinos
- Complete Guide to PSA Online Services in the Philippines
- How to Get PWD ID: Benefits and Application Guide
How to Get a Government ID Fast and Hassle-Free
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 are not as many as compared to other government IDs in the Philippines. For these valid IDs, you would only need a proof of identity such as your birth certificate and a document that proves your address like Barangay Clearance.
Prepare the Application Forms in Advance
It’s true, we’ve been there. Queuing in government offices takes a lifetime, so it is best to download the application forms online and fill them out in advance. And since most of the government offices do not provide enough tables and chairs, you also avoid the hassle of looking for a place where you can fill out your application form.
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 of going back and forth just because you dont have the complete requirements.
Apply Online if Possible
Lastly, choose to apply online to shorten the application process. Several agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs, SSS, and NBI allow applicants to register for a valid ID online. Visit their websites for more information.
Final Thoughts
Take the time to secure the above mentioned valid IDs. It may cost you time and money but having at least two of these identification cards can assist you when doing transactions with banks, financial institutions, government agencies, and more.
Sources:
- [1] LTO Online Portal
- [2] The Improved Postal ID
- [3] Application for Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
With a goal to help Filipinos lead healthier financial lives, Moneymax regularly publishes tips and tricks on personal finance and lifestyle, among many other topics. For more finance-related news and articles, follow Moneymax on Linkedin.
