Complete List of Valid IDs in the Philippines

This guide provides a comprehensive list of valid IDs in the Philippines that you can use for various transactions with government agencies and private organizations. Make sure to present the original ID and prepare a photocopy if needed.

Why Valid IDs is important

Valid IDs are required for many important processes in the Philippines. For example:

  • Booking your DFA passport appointment and appearing for your appointment – you need valid IDs to complete the process. Read our step‑by‑step guide: How to Schedule Your DFA Passport Appointment Online.
  • Sending applications to government agencies like SSS, GSIS, PRC, PhilHealth, and more.
  • Taking exams such as the Civil Service Exam or PRC Board Exams.
  • Other official transactions with government agencies or private institutions

Tip: “Always keep at least two valid primary IDs every time you transact with the government. It significantly shortens waiting time and avoids repeated visits,” says a government admin specialist.

List of Valid IDs in the Philippines

Government-Issued IDs

  • Philippine Passport (Department of Foreign Affairs)
  • National ID
  • SSS ID or SSS UMID Card (Social Security System)
  • GSIS ID or GSIS UMID Card (Government Service Insurance System)
  • Driver’s License (Land Transportation Office)
  • PRC ID (Professional Regulation Commission)
  • OWWA ID (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration)
  • iDOLE Card (Department of Labor and Employment)
  • Voter’s ID (Commission on Elections)
  • Voter’s Certification (from Election Officer, with dry seal)
  • Firearms License (Philippine National Police)
  • Senior Citizen ID (Local Government Unit)
  • PWD ID (Persons with Disabilities, Local Government Unit)
  • NBI Clearance (National Bureau of Investigation)
  • Alien Certificate of Registration / Immigrant Certificate of Registration
  • PhilHealth ID (digitized PVC)
  • Government Office and GOCC ID
  • Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID

Educational and Professional IDs

  • School ID (current student)
  • Current Valid ePassport (for ePassport renewal)
  • PRC ID (for licensed professionals)
  • Transcript of Records (college/university)
  • Elementary or High School Form 137

Overseas Applicants

  • Host government-issued IDs showing Philippine citizenship, e.g., Residence Card

Other IDs and Certifications

  • TIN ID
  • Postal ID (issued 2015 onwards)
  • Barangay Certification
  • GSIS e-Card
  • Seaman’s Book
  • NCWDP Certification (National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons)
  • DSWD Certification (Department of Social Welfare and Development)
  • Company IDs (from registered or regulated private entities supervised by BSP, SEC, or IC)
  • Police Clearance
  • Barangay Clearance / Cedula / Community Tax Certificate
  • Government Service Record
  • Land Title
  • PSA Marriage Certificate
  • PSA Birth Certificate

Tips for Using Valid IDs

  1. Always bring at least two (2) primary IDs for any official transaction.
  2. Keep photocopies ready in case the agency requests them.
  3. Check that your IDs are current and not expired to avoid delays.
  4. For minors or special cases, additional supporting documents may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the valid IDs in the DFA list?

The DFA accepts all digitized Philippine government-issued IDs with your signature, like SSS, UMID, Driver’s License, PRC ID, Postal ID, and PhilSys ID. Senior Citizen, Solo Parent, PWD IDs, Voter’s IDs, Voter’s Certificates from COMELEC, passports, Seaman’s Books, and recently issued student or alumni IDs are also accepted.

What type of ID is valid for a passport?

Any digitized government-issued ID with your signature can be used for a passport. Passports are valid for renewals, Seaman’s Books can be used, and student or alumni IDs are accepted within one year of issuance. Special IDs like Senior Citizen, Solo Parent, or PWD are also valid.

What three original documents are required for a passport?

You need a completed Passport Application Form, a PSA Birth Certificate (or Report of Birth for those born abroad), and a valid ID from the DFA-approved list. Some applicants may also need additional supporting documents depending on their circumstances.

How many ID proofs are required for a passport?

At least two IDs are recommended. One serves as your primary ID, while the other provides additional verification of your personal information. This helps avoid delays or complications during your DFA appointment.

What are the valid IDs accepted in the Philippines?

Government agencies and private institutions accept digitized government-issued IDs like SSS, UMID, Driver’s License, PRC ID, Postal ID, and PhilSys ID. Special IDs like Senior Citizen, Solo Parent, PWD, passports, Seaman’s Books, and recently issued student or alumni IDs are also recognized.

By keeping your valid IDs ready and organized, you can smoothly process transactions with government agencies, private institutions, or during travel requirements.

Source: DFA Website