Any major adult transaction requires the presentation of one or more valid IDs. While some services are good with one primary ID, some establishments like banks may ask you to show two.
Below, we list down the easiest ones to get, how to get them, and their period of validity.
Here are the requirements needed to apply for the following valid IDs:
Birth certificate
This certificate is often unlocks the other IDs on this list. Once you have this, your application for other IDs is pretty much set. You can request for a copy online and even pay for fees via online banking.
Delivery can take anywhere between 2 to 7 days depending on your location and number of requests.
Take note that only you can claim your document, and authorization letters will not be honored unless a family member is assigned to receive.
Birth certificates are technically valid for a long time, but some establishments require a certified copy from the National Statistics Office, or will only accept those released in the last three to six months.
Banks and some offices may also get a certified copy, so you'll have to request a new one if you want a back-up at home.
Unlike other IDs, you may have to get a birth certificate more than once in your life, depending on the need.
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Postal ID
Valid for three years, the new postal ID carries all the major information required—name, address, birthday, photo, and signature—making it a useful ID in your arsenal.
- Two copies of duly-accomplished Postal ID application form
- Proof of identity
- Proof of residence (utility bill or credit card bill with address)
- P504 fee
For a full list of accepted IDs and proof of residence, read our guide. Regular processing and delivery takes 15 days for Metro Manila and 20 days for provinces.
Expedited processing is available for P650, where the applicant can pick the ID up at the PHLPost branch after 10 days.
PhilHealth ID
Requirements differ from first-time, unemployed applicants and unemployed, self-employed, or voluntary members. Ideally, you will need the following:
- Two copies of the PhilHealth Member Registration Form
- Two 1x1 latest ID picture
- Two valid IDs
Check out our guide for specifics.
Passport
Philippine passports now have a validity of 10 years, meaning you can use up the pages for 10 years, unless it gets full and you request for another one. First-time applicants need to have the following:
- Confirmed Online Appointment
- Personal appearance
- Accomplished Application Form
- Original and photocopy of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper
- Married females (who are using their spouse's last name) must also present Original and submit photocopy of PSA Authenticated Marriage Contract on Security Paper or Report of Marriage
- Local Civil Registrar Copy is required if PSA Birth Certificate is not clear or cannot be read
- Valid IDs with one (1) Photocopy
- Processing fee of P950
Appointments can be made online. Here's our full guide to passport requirements, applications, and renewals.
Unified Multipurpose ID
Often abbreviated to UMID card, this ID issued by the Social Security System can be used to transact with the following agencies: the SSS, Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG Fund.
Those working in government can get their IDs processed at the GSIS.
Here are the requirements:
- Accomplished application form
- Two valid IDs
- For SSS members: paid at least one month of your SSS contribution.
National ID
Seen to be the all-in-one identification card to rule them all, the national ID is free, has no expiry, and is delivered to your doorstep. Step 1 is inputting data and scheduling an appointment online, and Step 2 is going to an in-person site for a biometrics scan.
Check out the application process here.
What about other IDs?
Other valid IDs, such as driver's licenses and IDs from the Professional Regulation Commission require applicants to pass a skill test or undergo professional training before application.
IDs for persons with disabilities (PWD) or senior citizens are not available to everyone.
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