How to Get Your Valid ID in Philippines 2020

This is an old tragic joke:

“Para makakuha ng valid ID, kailangan mo muna ng mga valid ID.”

Getting a valid ID here in the Philippines is not easy.

Though it is a necessity, getting one still takes too much time, money, and effort. This is why losing a wallet full of IDs is a disaster.

Valid IDs are necessary for smooth transactions. 

You can’t open a bank account without a valid ID.

Also, you can’t travel abroad without getting a passport.

In addition, you can’t get a job if you have no NBI clearance.

Most importantly, you can’t get a business permit without a valid ID.

Take note. These are not just identification cards. 

These are the key for your local and overseas employment, studies, business, insurance, pensions and many more. 

Therefore, every individual must possess at least 2 to 3 IDs. 

However, government offices accept either a primary valid ID or 2 secondary valid IDs in the Philippines. 

Wondering what are those?

Buckle up!

As we discuss the must-have valid IDs in the Philippines. 

Primary Valid IDs in the Philippines

 

• Philippine Passport
• SSS UMID Card
• Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
• Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) ID
• Senior Citizen ID
• Diplomat ID
• Voter’s ID
• Digitized Postal ID
• OFW ID
• Driver’s License
• SSS Card
• GSIS Card
• OWWA ID

Secondary Valid IDs in the Philippines

• Police Clearance
• NBI Clearance
• Barangay Certification
• Community Tax Certificate
• PhilHealth ID Card
• TIN ID Card
• PSA Birth Certificate
• Marriage Contract
• Student’s ID
• Seaman’s Book
• Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR)
• POEA Card
• Consular ID
• DSWD Certification
• PRA Special Resident Retiree Visa
• NCWPD Certification
• Firearms License
• PLRA ID

How to Get the Basic Valid IDs in the Philippines

• How to Get Philippine Passport
• How to Get Driver’s License
• How to Get SSS UMID Card
• How to Get PhilHealth ID
• How to Get TIN ID
• How to Get Postal ID
• How to Get Voter’s ID
• How to Get PRC ID
• How to Get Senior Citizen ID
• How to Get OFW ID

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is My School ID a Valid ID?
• Which Valid ID in the Philippines Can I Get Quickly?
• Is Voter’s Certification a Valid ID?
• Can a Debit Card be a Valid ID?

Primary Valid IDs in the Philippines

The Philippine government issues a lot of IDs.

But not all of them can be used as your official identification. 

Take this as an example. If you’re applying for a Philippine passport, you need to present a valid ID for evaluation and verification. 

These types of IDs are called Primary Valid IDs.

Check out what are the Primary Valid IDs in the Philippines. 

Philippine Passport

This is issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

SSS UMID Card

This card is also known as the Single ID Card. 

Wanna know why?

It has all the information about SSS, GSIS, PhilHealth, and PAG-IBIG Members. 

Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID

The Professional Regulations Commission issues PRC IDs to Filipinos who pass a national professional licensure exam.

Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) ID

Integrated Bar of the Philippines releases IBP ID to bar exam passers.

Digitized BIR Taxpayer’s ID

Get this card from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

Senior Citizen ID

Identification for Filipinos who reached 60 years old and above. Visit the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) to get your identification card.

Diplomat ID

The Philippine Embassy releases this ID type.

Voter’s ID

The Commission issues your Voter’s ID on Election (COMELEC). However, this ID takes a long time to be released.

Digitized Postal ID

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) is responsible for this identification.

OFW ID

Your OFW ID is from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). 

Driver’s License

Get your ID from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to legalize your driving skills. 

SSS Card

Offices of the Social Security System (SSS) is where you process your identification. 

GSIS Card

Process your ID at the Government Service Insurance System. 

OWWA ID

Secure your ID and work abroad from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

Secondary Valid IDs in the Philippines

Primary valid IDs in the Philippines are not the only option for your identity. 

There are secondary valid identifications and supporting documents you can use in a lot of your transactions.

These are as follows.

Police Clearance

The Philippine National Police (PNP) checks your background and release a copy within the day. 

NBI Clearance 

Another way to prove a clean criminal record is through the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Barangay Certification

Also known as the Barangay Clearance. Visit your Barangay Hall to claim this document. 

Community Tax Certificate

Most commonly known as Cedula. Barangay officials process this document within the day. 

PhilHealth ID Card

For you to claim healthcare benefits, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation processes your ID and membership. 

TIN ID Card

Get your ID at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

Student’s ID

Students can simply get their identification from the School Registrar’s Office. 

Seaman’s Book

To prove your work as a seaman, get this done at the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). 

Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR)

Expats staying in the country must claim this file at the Bureau of Immigration. It is also called the Immigrant Certification of Registration. 

POEA Card

The Philippine Overseas Employment Association (POEA) secures your own card once you submit all the requirements. 

Consular ID

Get it from the Philippine Embassy

DSWD Certification

To certify your identity, the Department of Social Welfare and Development provides these certificates. 

PRA Special Resident Retiree Visa

The Philippine Retirement Authority issues it. 

NCWPD Certification

The National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons proves the disability of an individual. 

Firearms License

Legally carry your gun approved by the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office. 

PLRA ID 

Philippine Leisure and Retirement Authority issued this identification. 

Securing any of the primary and secondary valid IDs and supporting documents is very useful, especially during major government transactions.

How to Get the Basic Valid IDs in the Philippines

Despite the long list of valid ID in the Philippines 2020, there’s no need to secure all of them.

There are basic IDs that you must have.

Unlike other countries, the Philippines didn’t have a national ID system. 

That’s why getting at least 2 to 3 IDs is a must. But as of today, the government encourages all Filipinos to process having their own national ID. 

Don’t know which to get and how to process. 

No worries. We’ll discuss briefly how to get valid ID Philippines. 

How to Get Philippine Passport

You might think that your passport is for traveling purposes only. 

Oh boy, you’re wrong. 

The Philippine Passport is considered the most powerful identification card. You can use it for private and government-related transactions. 

It used to be hard to find a vacant appointment slot. DFA now requires payment to schedule your passport application appointment. This is in response to the growing problem of appointment schedule hoarding and to encourage Filipinos to show up on their scheduled date.

Where to get: Department of Affairs (DFA). either from the main office or at any regional office near you. DFA even has satellite offices in malls to make it more convenient. DFA also has “Passport On Wheels,” which help reach the provinces far from any DFA offices.

How long is it valid: Your Philippine passport validity is for 10 years. 

What are the requirements: Listed below are the requirements to get a Philippine passport.

• Bring your PSA certified Birth Certificate
• One Valid ID
• Supporting Documents

How much does it cost: Price range from the Php 950 to Php 1,200. Depends if you’re in a hurry to have it or not. 

How to apply for a passport: Apply for a Philippine Passport by doing the following:

Step 1. Visit the DFA website.

Step 2. Secure an appointment.

Step 3. Pay the right amount. Follow the instruction given for your chosen payment channel.

Step 4. Be present on your schedule together with your complete requirements.

Step 5. Receive your new Philippine Passport at the scheduled release date.

How to Get Driver’s License

Are you planning to drive your own car?

Or perhaps you want to work for TNVS companies like Grab and Angkas?

Before you purchase a car with a car loan, secure a driver’s license first.

In the Philippines, there are three types of driver’s licenses. It all depends on your driving proficiency.

These are the Student License, Non-Professional License, and the Professional License.

All these IDs are considered valid IDs in the Philippines. Private and government agencies accept it. Also, banks acknowledge this type of ID. 

Where to get: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is responsible for releasing this. 

How long is it valid: Your driver’s license allows you to drive up to five years. 

What are the requirements: Bring the following when you process your driver’s license. 

• Completed application form 
• Valid ID (for Student License)
• Valid student permit (for Non-professional and Professional)
• Medical Certificate with an official receipt (from any duly licensed and practicing physician

How much does it cost: Prepare at least Php 318 to Php 820 for your driver’s license. 

How to apply for it: Follow these steps for your driver’s license. 

Step 1. Visit the nearest LTO branch near you.

Step 2. Bring your completed documents.

Step 3. Take the written exam related to driving.

Step 4. Show your excellent driving skills.

Step 5. Wait for the final results of your exams.

Step 6. Once you passed, expect your license released at the end of the day.

How to Get UMID ID

UMID stands for the Unified Multi-Purpose ID. 

To be honest, it is one of the most powerful valid IDs in the Philippines. 

Do you know why?

The card holds all the information about the cardholder’s local benefits. 

Before, you need to have a GSIS Card, PhilHealth ID, and Pag-IBIG ID.

But now, the SSS UMID Card covers all of these. 

Where to get: Visit any Social Security System Regional offices or satellite branches. 

How long is it valid: It’s valid is indefinite. Basically, it depends on the owner. You must be actively and regularly paying your contribution to keep it valid. 

What are the requirements: Complete these requirements first before going to the nearest SSS branch.

• Two (2) 2×2 latest ID picture
• 2 valid IDs (whether a primary or a secondary ID Philippines)
• Duly accomplished application form

How much does it cost: No need to spend a penny just to get a SSS UMID Card. 

How to apply for it: Follow the step-by-step procedure for your UMID. 

Step 1. Visit an SSS office or satellite branch near you.

Step 2. Fill up the application form.

Step 3. Present your completed requirements.

Step 4. Wait for your queue number to be called.

Step 5. Get your documents verified by the SSS personnel.

Step 6. Proceed to the ID capture booth.

Step 7. Scan your fingerprints as instructed.

Step 8. Sign your electronic signature process.

Step 9. Receive your UMID ID within 7 to 20 days. It depends on your address.

How to Get PhilHealth ID

PhilHealth members access their PhilHealth benefits through their ID. 

Nevertheless, it’s not the sole purpose of the valid PhilHealth ID. 

Your PhilHealth Insurance card is also recognized as a secondary valid ID in the Philippines. 

PhilHealth ID has two types. These are:

PhilHealth regular ID Card

It is a cardboard-like ID card. It isn’t fully laminated yet. You’ll be responsible for the lamination. 

Sadly, it is not considered a primary ID in Philippines yet. 

No worries. Few government agencies and establishments acknowledge this ID card.  

PhilHealth Insurance Card

It is a fully laminated photo ID card. 

All government agencies and establishments acknowledge it as a primary valid ID in the Philippines. 

Where to get: Claim your ID card from the PhilHealth Local Insurance Office (LHIO). 

How long is it valid: The validity of the PhilHealth Insurance Card is indefinite. As long as you’re paying your monthly contributions regularly, it is still valid. 

What are the requirements: Below are the list of requirements for each type of ID. 

For Regular ID Card

• PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF)
• Two (2) 1×1 ID picture
• Member Data Record (MDR)

For PhilHealth Insurance Card

• Two (2) 1×1 ID picture
• Duly accomplished PMRF
• PhilHealth Regular ID Card 

How much does it cost: The Regular PhilHealth ID is free.

However, the PhilHealth Insurance Card costs Php 90 for the ID. 

Pay an additional fee if you want to include your dependent on the card. It’s only Php 358. 

How to apply for it: Do the following to bring home your PhilHealth ID. 

PhilHealth Regular ID Card

Step 1. Download PMRF from PhilHealth’s official website.

Step 2. Submit the form together with other supporting documents. 

Step 3. Wait for the verification of your documents

Step 4. Claim your Member Data Record and PhilHealth ID

PhilHealth Insurance Card

Step 1. Download PhilHealth’s registration form (PMRF) from their webpage.

Step 2. Present the form at any LHIO office or satellite branch.

Step 3. Bring your complete requirements.

Step 4. Declare all your dependents.

Step 5. Pay the corresponding amount for your ID.

How to Get TIN ID

Are you a responsible taxpayer?

Then you must have your Tax Identification Number ID with you. 

The government does not require every Filipino to have an ID. But a TIN is a must-have. 

However, you must know why a TIN Card is important. 

It’s very handy for any kind of transaction you’ll have. It verified your identity with ease.

Where to get: Your TIN card is available at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) office assigned in your area. Every region in the Philippines is assigned to its certain BIR branch office. 

How long is it valid: TIN Card validity is indefinite. 

What are the requirements: Carry these documents when you drop by the BIR office. 

• Duly Accomplished TIN application form
• Birth Certificate
• One (1) Valid ID

How much does it cost: The TIN ID process is free. So why not have one, right?

How to apply for it: Be guided accordingly on obtaining a TIN ID. 

Step 1. Go to the assigned BIR office in your region. Check the official website to know where you’ll go.

Step 2. Submit your duly accomplished TIN application form and other requirements.

Step 3. Wait for your documents to be verified.

Step 4. Claim your card upon release.

How to Get Postal ID

The easiest ID to get Philippines is a Postal ID. 

It is a valid ID address. 

More importantly, it is valid for any transaction. You may use it on government agencies and banks. 

Where to get: Your Postal ID is issued by the PHLPost.

How long is it valid: It has an indefinite validity. 

What are the requirements: Complete all these documents before you stop by the PHLPost. 

• Duly accomplished PIID application form (Two copies)
• Proof of Identity (Either PSA Birth Certificate, SSS UMID card, Driver’s Licensed, or Passport)
• Proof of Address (Either Barangay Certificate of Residency, Certificate True Copy of Lease, or Bank Statement)

How much does it cost: A Postal ID is cost-free. No need to prepare a huge amount for this identification.

How to apply for it: Being known as the most accessible ID, the steps to get one are definitely easy. 

Step 1. Visit the PHLPost assigned in your area.

Step 2. Sign-up for all the accurate details in the application form.

Step 3. Submit all the required documents to the PHLPost personnel.

Step 4. Get your Postal ID card once for release.

How to Get Voters ID

Are you an eligible voter? Were you registered as a voter? 

Therefore, you must have a Voter’s ID. This type of ID is granted to registered voters only. 

Although it takes months before your ID request is processed. Too long? It is because it entails fingerprint-matching. Your identity must be filtered over 52 million voter records in the Philippines. 

All government agencies and private organizations recognize this ID.

Where to get: Your Voter’s ID is issued by the COMELEC or Commission on Elections. 

How long is it valid: There’s no definite time before your Voter’s ID expires. As long as you exercise your right to vote, it’s still valid. 

What are the requirements: Complete the following before proceeding to COMELEC. 

• Bring any valid IDs in the Philippines
• Duly accomplished Application form

How much does it cost: Always remember that your Voter’s ID is free. No need to pay anyone to process your ID. 

How to apply for it: Here are the steps to get a Voter’s ID. 

Not yet a Registered Voter

Step 1. Go to COMELEC

Step 2. Bring a Valid ID

Step 3. Wait until you are registered as a voter in your district

Registered Voter

Step 1. Visit COMELEC

Step 2. Bring your valid ID

Step 3. Complete the Application Form

Step 4. Keep your stub with you at all times.

Important Reminder: Your ID is released a few months after your application date. The release date is written on your claim stub. Don’t lose it. 

How to Get PRC ID

Professional job applicants need this ID. 

But first, you have to pass a respective licensure board exam. 

Registered nurses, engineers, architects, physicians, and others need a license card to be employed.

The PRC ID serves as your proof of identity. Not only that, it gives you the right to work as a professional. 

Where to get: Once you pass, process your ID at the Professional Regulation Commission. 

How long is it valid: You’re legally licensed to operate for 5 years. 

What are the requirements: Prepare the following before you proceed to the PRC. 

• Oath Form with your Reference Number (from the PRC website)
• Valid ID picture Passport size (plain background with complete name tag)
• 2 Metered Documentary Stamps
• Original and Photocopy of Valid ID 
• Current Community Tax Certificate (Cedula)
• Short Brown Envelope

How much does it cost: You need to settle 2 types of fees. 

Baccalaureate Fee

It is worth Php 1,050. Registration costs Php 600, while the Annual Fee is Php 450.

Non-Baccalaureate Fee

It is Php 1,320 in total. Registration is Php 450 while the Annual Fee is Php 870.

How to apply for it: Take note of the steps for getting your PRC ID. 

Step 1. Check the official website of PRC at prc.gov.ph.

Step 2. Select the “Initial Registration” option under the Registration eServices.

Step 3. Afterward, select the Central Office.

Step 4. Provide all the information in the required fields and upload a 2×22 ID picture.

Step 5. Once online registration is done, the Oath Form is ready. Take note of the Reference Code.

Step 6. Get a printed copy of your Oath Form.

Step 7. Visit the PRC Central Office.

Step 8. Pay for the Baccalaureat Fee.

Step 9. Submit your Oath Form and other documents.

Step 10. Get the claim stub indicating the licensed release date. (usually takes 3-5 working days.

How to Get Senior Citizen ID

Every senior citizen in the Philippines is entitled to a 20% discount. 

This is mandated by the Republic Act 9994. It is also known as the Expanded Senior Citizen Act of 2010. 

Aside from the senior citizen discount, your card is good as a primary valid ID in the Philippines. 

Where to get: Every senior can get an ID from the Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA).  

How long is it valid: This type of ID has an indefinite time of validity. 

What are the requirements: Bring all these documents for a convenient process. 

• Duly accomplished Application form from the OSCA office. 
• Recent 1×1 valid ID picture
• Photocopy of valid IDs (1 to 2 identification documents confirming the applicant’s name, birth date, and present address.)

How much does it cost: There’s no registration fee for your Senior Citizen ID. 

How to apply for it: The government made the process easy for the senior. 

Step 1. Visit the OSCA office.

Step 2. Get all your documents ready.

Step 3. Submit your filled-out application form.

Step 4. Wait for your ID card release.

In some areas, the Barangay Officials assist their senior residents in the process. No need to stop by the OSCA office. Just make sure you complete the requirements and application form. Ask your Barangay Officials about this.

How to Get OFW ID

Every Overseas Filipino Worker must have an OFW ID. 

It gives great assistance with banking and government-related transactions in the Philippines. 

On top of that, it serves as a membership card for the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). 

Where to get: Have an OFW ID from POEA or the Philippine Overseas Labor and Office (POLO) in the country of employment. 

How long is it valid: Validity is indefinite for OFW ID. 

What are the requirements: Present the following documents to get your identification. 

• POEA Contract
• Work Visa
• Passport
• Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)

How much does it cost: Your OFW ID is not expensive. It costs only Php 119.50. 

How to apply for it: Bring home your ID easily by doing these steps.

Step 1. Go to POEA or POLO office.

Step 2. Fill up the application form needed.

Step 3. Present all the documents.

Step 4. Claim your ID once it is ready for release.

Based on the discussion above, know which type of ID you actually need. Follow the requirements needed and procedures to ensure a quick process.

Frequently Asked Questions On Philippine Valid IDs

Despite the thorough discussion of acceptable valid IDs in the Philippines, there are still inquiries about it. 

Below are the common questions asked about IDs.

Is My School ID a Valid ID?

Your school ID is valid as long as it covers the current school year. It should indicate the student’s name, school name, and school year. 

It is listed as a secondary valid ID in the Philippines. Students still can’t apply for other valid IDs as it requires certain procedures and documents. They have to graduate first or take an exam.

Which Valid ID in the Philippines Can I Get Quickly? 

There is various government ID in the Philippines that you can apply for easily. 

Postal ID – fastest valid ID to get and accepted widely in the country. All you need is a Birth Certificate or a School ID. Even students can have this type of ID. Process time takes only a few minutes only. 

Passport – one of the best and easiest IDs to get. With the revamped application system, you can apply online. Be present at your scheduled appointment, and voila! You have a 10-year Philippine passport as an ID and license to travel. 

SSS ID – easier to get than before. Start your process online and then visit the SSS branch you prefer. Get your ID mailed to your address. That’s easy! You can have access to your retirement benefits, maternity benefits, short-term loans, and more

NBI Clearance – easiest secondary valid IDs in the Philippines you can get. It shows you have a clear criminal record. It proves you’re worthy of being employed. What makes it easy to process is the online process. Visit their page and register. Afterward, be present at your scheduled appointment. Take home your NBI Clearance in no time.

Is Voter’s Certification a Valid ID?

Your Voter’s Certification can be your Temporary Voter’s ID Card. It is only valid for one (1) year. It starts from the date of issuance and then you must apply for a Voter’s ID Card. 

Can a Debit Card be a Valid ID?

A debit or credit card can be used as a form of Philippines primary ID. A photo with an affixed signature must be on the card. In addition, it should not be expired.

Your credit card can be used as a secondary form of ID if it contains your signature and is not expired. 

However, not all banks release this type of credit or debit card. 

Every transaction made in the country requires identification. Government and non-government transactions are less painful when you have at least two to three valid IDs in the Philippines. Whether it is a primary or secondary ID Philippines, it always comes in handy.  

Some say you need to have all of them, but in reality, it’s not practical. Prioritize the valid IDs in the Philippines that apply to your transactions and needs. You’ll see how seamless identity verification is with them.

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