Understanding and obtaining valid identification is an essential aspect of adult life. For this reason, it’s important to gather comprehensive information on both primary and secondary valid IDs in the Philippines. Learn more about valid IDs such as the Philippine National ID, Passport, Driver’s License, SSS UMID Card, PRC ID, Voter’s ID, Senior Citizen ID, PWD ID, PhilHealth ID, TIN Card, Postal ID, and GSIS e-Card, along with the procedure, validity, and cost associated with obtaining each one.
This is particularly helpful to all adult Filipino citizens and residents who need to obtain, renew or understand more about valid IDs in the Philippines. By reading through this guide, you can expect to gain a clear understanding of the various IDs accepted in the Philippines, enabling you to easily navigate through various transactions that require valid identification.
Understanding Valid IDs
Valid IDs, also known as government IDs, are used to prove a person’s identity. They typically bear the person’s full name, date of birth, and address. Unlike other countries that have a standard national identification card, the Philippines has an extensive list of accepted valid IDs.
Primary Valid IDs in the Philippines
The most commonly used government-issued IDs in the Philippines are classified as primary IDs. These IDs include the Philippine National ID, Passport, Driver’s License, SSS UMID Card, PRC ID, Voter’s ID, Senior Citizen ID, PWD ID, PhilHealth ID, TIN Card, Postal ID, and GSIS e-Card. Each of them offers different benefits and can be obtained from respective government agencies. Listed below are all these identification documents, where and how you can obtain them.
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Philippine National ID (PhilSys ID):
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- Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Visit a PhilSys Registration Center or Local Civil Registry Office.
- Bring valid proof of identity and address (e.g., birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, etc.).
- Fill out the application form and undergo biometric data capture.
- Wait for your PhilSys ID to be processed and delivered.
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Passport:
- Validity: 10 years
- Cost: Approximately P950 to P1,250 (depending on type and processing time)
- How to Obtain:
- Apply at any Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Consular Office.
- Complete the online application form.
- Pay the necessary fees.
- Attend the appointment for biometrics and photo capture.
- Receive your passport after processing.
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Driver’s License:
Credits: LTO / Facebook - Validity: 5 years
- Cost: Approximately P320 to P820 (depending on license type)
- How to Obtain:
- Visit a Land Transportation Office (LTO) branch.
- Complete the requirements (application form, medical certificate, etc.).
- Pass the written and practical exams.
- Pay the fees and receive your driver’s license.
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SSS UMID Card:
Credits: SSS - Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Apply at any Social Security System (SSS) branch.
- Bring valid IDs and proof of SSS membership.
- Undergo biometrics and photo capture.
- Receive your UMID card.
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PRC ID (Professional Regulation Commission ID):
Credits: PRC - Validity: 5 years
- Cost: Approximately P1,050 to P1,320 (depending on profession)
- How to Obtain:
- Visit the PRC office related to your profession.
- Submit the required documents (proof of passing board exam, etc.).
- Pay the fees.
- Receive your PRC ID.
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Voter’s ID:
Credits: UNTV - Validity: Indefinite
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Register as a voter during COMELEC registration periods.
- Attend biometrics capture and receive your Voter’s ID.
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Senior Citizen ID:
Credits: Ardelyn Verano / Facebook - Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Visit your local Senior Citizens Affairs Office.
- Provide proof of age (birth certificate, etc.).
- Receive your Senior Citizen ID.
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PWD ID (Persons with Disabilities ID):
- Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Visit the local government office or National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA).
- Present medical certificates or other relevant documents.
- Receive your PWD ID.
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Philhealth ID:
Credits: Philhealth - Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Visit a PhilHealth office or PhilHealth-accredited facility.
- Fill out the application form.
- Provide necessary documents (proof of membership, etc.).
- Receive your PhilHealth ID.
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TIN Card (Tax Identification Number):
Credits: BIR - Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Apply at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
- Fill out the TIN application form.
- Submit required documents (valid IDs, etc.).
- Receive your TIN card.
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Postal ID:
Credits: Phl Post / Facebook - Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- Visit a Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) branch.
- Bring valid IDs and proof of address.
- Fill out the application form.
- Receive your Postal ID.
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GSIS e-Card:
Credits: GSIS - Validity: Lifetime
- Cost: Free
- How to Obtain:
- For government employees, visit the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).
- Apply for the e-Card.
- Provide necessary documents.
- Receive your GSIS e-Card.
Remember to check specific requirements and procedures for each ID, as they may vary based on your location and circumstances.
Secondary Valid IDs in the Philippines
Apart from primary IDs, there are also secondary IDs, which are often required as supporting documents when applying for primary IDs. These include:
- NBI Clearance,
- Police Clearance,
- Seaman’s Book,
- Company ID,
- Student’s ID,
- Alumni ID,
- Cedula,
- PSA Marriage Contract,
- PSA Birth Certificate,
- Firearms License Card, and a
- Credit Card (With Photo).
Tips for Getting Philippine Government-Issued IDs
- Prepare ID pictures in advance: Having your photos ready saves time during the application process. Ensure they meet the specific requirements of the issuing agency.
- Fill out and print applications or apply online (when possible): This avoids delays upon arrival. Double-check all information entered for accuracy.
- Avoid Mondays whenever possible: Expect bigger crowds on Mondays. Consider applying on other weekdays to minimize waiting time.
- Bring all the necessary requirements: Check the issuing agency’s website for a complete list to avoid being turned away.
- Bring supporting items: Pack a power bank for your phone, snacks, and a water bottle to stay comfortable during the waiting period.
Conclusion
Having valid identification is a fundamental part of adult life. It is essential for various transactions like opening a bank account, applying for a job, or even traveling. By understanding the different types of valid IDs in the Philippines and the process of obtaining them, one can navigate the complex world of adulthood with relative ease.