Updated List of Valid IDs in the Philippines for 2026: How To Get Them and The Cost

Written By Kach Umandap

Getting your first ID should not feel like a maze. This is your plain-English resource for every valid ID a Filipino can hold - who it is best for, where to apply, what to bring, how much it costs, and how long it lasts. Bookmark it and share it with anyone who is just starting out.

Primary vs. secondary IDs, and where to begin

Not all IDs carry the same weight. Banks, government offices, and employers usually ask for a primary ID first. If you cannot show one, they will accept two secondary IDs instead. Knowing the difference saves you a wasted trip.

Primary IDs (strongest on their own): National ID (PhilID), Philippine Passport, Driver's License, UMID, and PRC ID. One of these is usually enough to prove who you are.

Secondary IDs (bring two together): Postal ID, PhilHealth ID, TIN ID, Barangay Certificate, Voter's Certification, Senior Citizen or PWD ID, and company IDs. Great for building your first set of records.

No ID yet? Follow this exact order.

Every strong ID asks for proof of who you are. This is the fastest chain from zero to a full wallet of IDs.

  1. Get your PSA Birth Certificate online at psa.gov.ph or psahelpline.ph. This is the master document everything else is built on.

  2. Claim a Barangay Certificate at your barangay hall. It is the easiest first proof of identity and address.

  3. Register for the National ID (PhilID). It is free and now your most powerful primary ID.

  4. Add a Postal ID or Digital TIN ID to have a card in hand while you wait for others.

  5. From here you can unlock your Passport, Driver's License, SSS, and PhilHealth with ease.

TravelWithKach.com · Updated 2026

The Ultimate Guide to Valid IDs in the Philippines

One Passport · Every ID You Need

Getting your first ID should not feel like a maze. This is your plain-English resource for every valid ID a Filipino can hold, who it is best for, where to apply, what to bring, how much it costs, and how long it lasts. Bookmark it and share it with anyone who is just starting out.

by Kach Umandap - Youngest Filipina to visit all 195 countries, and the First Filipino to do it solely on a Philippine passport. More guides at travelwithkach.com.
Jump to a section Start Here Primary IDs Clearances Tax & Benefits For Specific Filipinos Foreign Nationals Voting Smart Tips

Read this first

Primary vs. secondary IDs, and where to begin

Not all IDs carry the same weight. Banks, government offices, and employers usually ask for a primary ID first. If you cannot show one, they will accept two secondary IDs instead. Knowing the difference saves you a wasted trip.

Strongest on their own

Primary IDs

National ID (PhilID), Philippine Passport, Driver's License, UMID, and PRC ID. One of these is usually enough to prove who you are.

Bring two together

Secondary IDs

Postal ID, PhilHealth ID, TIN ID, Barangay Certificate, Voter's Certification, Senior Citizen or PWD ID, and company IDs. Great for building your first set of records.

No ID yet? Follow this exact order.

Every strong ID asks for proof of who you are. This is the fastest chain from zero to a full wallet of IDs.

  1. Get your PSA Birth Certificate online at psa.gov.ph or psahelpline.ph. This is the master document everything else is built on.
  2. Claim a Barangay Certificate at your barangay hall. It is the easiest first proof of identity and address.
  3. Register for the National ID (PhilID). It is free and now your most powerful primary ID.
  4. Add a Postal ID or Digital TIN ID to have a card in hand while you wait for others.
  5. From here you can unlock your Passport, Driver's License, SSS, and PhilHealth with ease.

The heavy hitters

Primary IDs every Filipino should have

Philippine National ID (PhilID / ePhilID)

Primary · Free

The single most powerful ID in the country. It works for banks, SIM registration, domestic flights, and almost every government transaction. The printable ePhilID and the digital version carry the same legal weight as the physical card.

Best for
Everyone, including newborns, minors, and resident aliens.
Where
Walk in to any PhilSys Registration Center, or check philsys.gov.ph. Get the digital version through the eGovPH app.
Requirements
One primary document such as your PSA Birth Certificate or Philippine Passport. Bring a second supporting ID if you have one.
Fee
Free for first issuance. Replacement is around ₱135.
Valid for
Lifetime. Your PhilSys Number never changes.

Philippine Passport

Primary

Your key to seeing the world. The maroon Philippine passport is the strongest proof of citizenship you can carry, and it is the only ID on this list that lets you travel internationally.

Best for
Anyone who plans to travel abroad, work overseas, or wants the top-tier ID.
Where
passport.gov.ph is the only official appointment site, and booking is free. Beware of fixers.
Requirements
Confirmed online appointment, original PSA Birth Certificate on SECPA paper, one valid government ID, and personal appearance. Note: DFA does not accept Postal, PhilHealth, or TIN as your primary ID here.
Fee
₱950 regular (10 to 12 working days) or ₱1,200 express (5 to 7 working days).
Valid for
10 years for adults, 5 years for minors.

Driver's License

Primary

Everything now runs through the LTO's online portal (LTMS). You start with a Student Permit, then upgrade to a Non-Professional or Professional License.

Best for
Anyone who drives, and anyone who wants a widely accepted primary card ID.
Where
Create an account at portal.lto.gov.ph, then finish at any LTO branch.
Requirements
LTMS account, the 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course, a medical certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic, PSA Birth Certificate, and one valid ID. You must hold a Student Permit for at least 31 days before applying for a Non-Professional License.
Fee
Student Permit about ₱318. Non-Professional License about ₱585 to ₱685, plus the course and medical fees.
Valid for
Student Permit 1 year. License 5 years, or 10 years with a clean record.

SSS ID: UMID and the new MySSS Card

Primary

The Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID) links SSS, GSIS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG in one card. In 2026, SSS is rolling out the MySSS Card as the replacement, which uses your National ID for verification, so you may be guided to that instead.

Best for
Employed and self-employed members who want a four-in-one government card.
Where
Apply through your My.SSS account at sss.gov.ph, or a branch.
Requirements
A permanent SS number, a registered My.SSS account, at least one posted contribution, and details that match your National ID.
Fee
Free for first issuance. Replacement is around ₱200. MySSS Card fees depend on the partner bank.
Valid for
Lifetime.

Postal ID

Secondary · Easiest

Widely considered the easiest primary-looking card to get. It proves both your identity and your address, which makes it a favorite starter ID.

Best for
Students, fresh graduates, freelancers, and anyone needing a first card ID fast.
Where
Any post office. Details at phlpost.gov.ph.
Requirements
Application form, one proof of identity (PSA Birth Certificate or valid ID), and one proof of address such as a utility bill or barangay certificate. Personal appearance for biometrics.
Fee
Around ₱504 to ₱550 regular, plus about ₱100 for rush processing.
Valid for
3 years.

For jobs, business, and travel

Clearances you will be asked for

NBI Clearance

Clearance

The national background check. Required for most jobs, business permits, visa applications, and scholarships. If your name has no match ("no HIT"), you can get it the same day.

Best for
Job applicants, business owners, and anyone needing proof of a clean record.
Where
clearance.nbi.gov.ph only. Register, pay, then appear once for biometrics.
Requirements
Two valid government IDs, an active email and mobile number for the OTP.
Fee
About ₱160 total. Free for first-time job seekers under RA 11261 with a barangay certificate.
Valid for
1 year.

Police Clearance (National)

Clearance

A nationwide criminal-record check issued by the PNP. Often required alongside or in place of an NBI Clearance for local employment.

Best for
Local job applications, firearm licenses, and agency requirements.
Where
pnpclearance.ph. Book, pay online, then visit your chosen station for biometrics.
Requirements
Two valid IDs, an active email, and your payment reference.
Fee
Around ₱150. Free for first-time job seekers with a barangay certificate.
Valid for
6 months.

Barangay Certificate / Barangay ID

Local · Starter

Issued by your local barangay, this is one of the first documents you can get and it opens the door to almost everything else.

Best for
First-time applicants proving residency and identity.
Where
Your barangay hall, in person.
Requirements
Proof that you live in the barangay, such as a bill or a valid ID, plus a photo for the barangay ID.
Fee
Minimal, usually free to around ₱100, and it varies per barangay.
Valid for
Typically 6 months to 1 year.

Money, health, and housing

Tax and benefit IDs that work for you

Digital TIN ID (BIR)

Free · Fully online

You no longer need to line up at your RDO. Any registered taxpayer can generate a Digital TIN ID with a QR code, accepted as a valid primary ID by banks and agencies. Remember: one TIN per person for life. Applying for a second is illegal.

Best for
Employees, freelancers, business owners, and anyone who needs a free card ID.
Where
orus.bir.gov.ph (ORUS). Also available in the eGovPH Mobile ID Wallet.
Requirements
An active TIN and an ORUS account. You may first need to update your email with your RDO using Form S1905.
Fee
Free.
Valid for
Your TIN is for life. Regenerate the digital ID anytime.

PhilHealth ID

Health · Membership

Your access to national health coverage. You can register online to get your PIN, but the physical card is claimed at a branch.

Best for
Every Filipino. Employees are enrolled by their employer.
Where
Register at philhealth.gov.ph, then claim the card at a Local Health Insurance Office.
Requirements
Member Registration Form (PMRF), a valid ID, and a PSA Birth Certificate. Your 12-digit PIN arrives by email in 3 to 5 working days.
Fee
Free to register. Contributions apply for coverage.
Valid for
As long as you are a member.

Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus

Housing · GOCC

A membership card that doubles as a discount and cash card for Pag-IBIG Fund members.

Best for
Pag-IBIG Fund members, especially those saving toward a home loan.
Where
Pag-IBIG branches. Info at pagibigfund.gov.ph.
Requirements
Your Pag-IBIG MID number and one valid ID.
Fee
A minimal card fee that varies by partner.
Valid for
Long-term, as a membership card.

GSIS eCard

Government workers

The counterpart of the UMID for government employees, issued by GSIS and often bundled with a UnionBank account for benefits.

Best for
Active and retired government employees.
Where
Your nearest GSIS office. Info at gsis.gov.ph.
Requirements
Active GSIS membership and one valid ID.
Fee
Free for eligible members.
Valid for
While you are an active member.

Depending on who you are

IDs for specific Filipinos

PRC ID (Professional Regulation Commission)

Primary

For licensed professionals such as nurses, teachers, engineers, and accountants. It is a strong primary ID and proof of your license.

Best for
Anyone who passed a licensure examination.
Where
online.prc.gov.ph (LERIS).
Requirements
Your license number, a 2x2 photo, a valid ID, and your CPD units or a signed CPD undertaking.
Fee
Around ₱450 for a 3-year renewal, plus optional delivery.
Valid for
3 years, renewed during your birth month.

Senior Citizen ID (OSCA)

Age 60+

Unlocks legally mandated discounts on medicine, food, transport, and more. Every Filipino aged 60 and above should claim it.

Best for
Filipinos aged 60 and older.
Where
The Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) at your city or municipal hall.
Requirements
Proof of age (PSA Birth Certificate or valid ID), proof of residency, and 1x1 photos.
Fee
Free.
Valid for
Lifetime.

PWD ID (NCDA framework)

Persons with disability

Grants access to disability discounts and benefits, following National Council on Disability Affairs guidelines.

Best for
Persons with a permanent or temporary disability.
Where
Your local PDAO (Persons with Disability Affairs Office) or city health office. Framework at ncda.gov.ph.
Requirements
A medical certificate or clinical abstract confirming the disability, a valid ID, and photos.
Fee
Free.
Valid for
Typically 3 to 5 years, depending on the LGU.

OFW e-Card and OWWA ID

Overseas workers

The OFW e-Card (also called the iDOLE card) and OWWA membership ID identify documented overseas Filipino workers and give access to member services and benefits.

Best for
Active, documented OFWs with valid deployment records.
Where
The Department of Migrant Workers at dmw.gov.ph and OWWA at owwa.gov.ph.
Requirements
Active OFW status, a valid employment or e-Registration record, and OWWA membership.
Fee
OFW e-Card is free for qualified OFWs. OWWA membership has its own contribution.
Valid for
Tied to your membership and deployment records.

Seaman's Book (SIRB, MARINA)

Seafarers

The Seafarer's Identification and Record Book identifies you as a seafarer and logs your sea service. It works alongside your passport, not in place of it.

Best for
Filipino seafarers and maritime professionals.
Where
MARINA through its online appointment system (MISMO). Info at marina.gov.ph.
Requirements
Valid passport, PSA Birth Certificate, basic maritime training certificates, and a medical certificate.
Fee
Processing fees vary. Delivery is optional.
Valid for
SIRB is valid for 10 years. The related Seafarer's Identity Document (SID) is 5 years.

Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) ID

Lawyers

Proof of active membership in good standing with the national organization of Filipino lawyers.

Best for
Practicing attorneys.
Where
Your IBP chapter. Info at ibp.ph.
Requirements
Active IBP membership and updated dues.
Fee
Tied to membership dues.
Valid for
While you remain in good standing.

DSWD Certification

Social welfare

An official certification from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, often used as supporting identification for assistance programs and transactions.

Best for
Beneficiaries and those needing social-welfare documentation.
Where
DSWD field offices. Info at dswd.gov.ph.
Requirements
Depends on the specific certification requested.
Fee
Usually free.
Valid for
As stated on the certification.

Government, GOCC, and Company IDs

Employer-issued

Employee IDs count as valid identification when issued by a government office, a GOCC (such as the AFP ID or Pag-IBIG), or a private company that is registered with or regulated by the BSP, SEC, or IC.

Best for
Employees, reservists, and officers of recognized institutions.
Where
Your HR department or issuing agency.
Requirements
Active employment or membership.
Fee
Usually issued at no cost to the employee.
Valid for
While you are employed or a member.

For non-Filipino residents

IDs for foreign nationals

Passport Issued by a Foreign Government

Foreign nationals

A valid foreign passport is accepted as a primary ID for many transactions in the Philippines.

Best for
Visitors and foreign residents.
Where
Issued by your home country's government.
Requirements
A valid, unexpired passport.
Valid for
As printed on the passport.

ACR I-Card (ARC / ICR)

Registered aliens

The Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card is the official ID for registered foreign nationals and immigrants living in the Philippines, issued by the Bureau of Immigration.

Best for
Foreign residents, immigrants, and long-stay visa holders.
Where
Bureau of Immigration at immigration.gov.ph.
Requirements
Valid passport, the appropriate visa, and completed BI forms.
Fee
Set by the Bureau of Immigration.
Valid for
Tied to your visa or immigrant status.

A quick clarification

What happened to the Voter's ID

COMELEC has stopped issuing the plastic Voter's ID card. If you register to vote today, your proof is a Voter's Certification, and the National ID now serves the ID function that the old voter's card once did. Registering is still worth it, both for your vote and as a supporting record.

Voter's Registration and Certification (COMELEC)

Civic duty

Registering makes you an active voter and gives you a certification you can use as a secondary ID.

Best for
Every eligible Filipino aged 18 and above.
Where
Your local COMELEC office. Pre-fill your form via iRehistro at comelec.gov.ph.
Requirements
One valid ID and personal appearance for biometrics.
Fee
Free to register. A small fee applies to request a Voter's Certification.
Valid for
Registration is ongoing. Certifications are dated on issue.

Save yourself the headache

Smart tips before you apply

  • Only use official government websites. If a site asks for extra fees to "secure a slot," it is a fixer. Real appointments are free.
  • Make your name and birthdate match everywhere. A mismatch between your PSA record, National ID, and SSS is the number one cause of delays. Fix it once and every future application gets easier.
  • Get your PSA Birth Certificate first. Almost every ID asks for it. Order it online so you always have clean copies ready.
  • Start with the free ones. The National ID and Digital TIN ID cost nothing and are accepted almost everywhere.
  • Keep digital copies. Save clear photos of every ID in a secure folder so a lost card never becomes a lost opportunity.
  • Fees and steps change. Always confirm the latest details on the official site before you travel to any office.

Your identity is your first passport

Every strong ID you hold is a door that opens: to a bank account, a first job, a business, and eventually to seeing the world. You do not need connections or a fixer. You just need the right order and the official links, and now you have both.

travelwithkach.com

Sending you off with a fuller wallet and bigger dreams,
Kach

Kach Umandap · Youngest Filipina to visit all 195 countries, and the First Filipino to do it solely on a Philippine passport. Follow @kach.umandap and @2monkeystravel.

This guide is for general information and was updated in 2026. Requirements, fees, and processes are set by each issuing agency and can change without notice. Always confirm with the official source before applying.

Smart tips before you apply

  • Only use official government websites. If a site asks for extra fees to "secure a slot," it is a fixer. Real appointments are free.

  • Make your name and birthdate match everywhere. A mismatch between your PSA record, National ID, and SSS is the number one cause of delays. Fix it once and every future application gets easier.

  • Get your PSA Birth Certificate first. Almost every ID asks for it. Order it online so you always have clean copies ready.

  • Start with the free ones. The National ID and Digital TIN ID cost nothing and are accepted almost everywhere.

  • Keep digital copies. Save clear photos of every ID in a secure folder so a lost card never becomes a lost opportunity.

  • Fees and steps change. Always confirm the latest details on the official site before you travel to any office.

Kach Umandap

Filipina Digital Nomad Who Visited 195 Countries

kach@filipinopassport.com

https://travelwithkach.com
Next

How to Travel the World for Free as a Volunteer English Teacher - Tips for Filipinos