How to Get a National ID in the Philippines

The Philippine Identification System, or PhilSys, is the government's foundational ID program. It was created under Republic Act No. 11055 and is run by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Its goal is to give every Filipino citizen and resident alien one reliable proof of identity. If you have not registered yet, this guide walks you through the whole process.

Who can register?

Registration is free and open to:

• Filipino citizens, whether living in the Philippines or abroad
• Resident aliens living in the Philippines

Children can register too. We cover that in our guide on getting a PhilSys ID for kids.

What you will receive

After registration you get a PhilSys Number (PSN), a permanent 12-digit number assigned to you for life. You also get a PhilID, the physical card, and an ePhilID, the printable paper version. Many people also ask about the digital national id, which lets you carry and show your identity electronically.

Step 1: Pre-register online

Start at the official PhilSys registration portal. Here you:

1. Fill in your demographic information (full name, sex, date of birth, place of birth, blood type, address, and mobile number).
2. Choose a registration center and book an appointment.
3. Save your appointment slip, which carries a QR code.

Pre-registration shortens your time at the center and helps avoid long queues.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

Bring original documents. The most common primary documents are:

• PSA-issued birth certificate
• Philippine passport
• Driver's license
• UMID, or other government-issued IDs with photo

If you lack primary documents, the PSA accepts secondary documents or an introducer (a person who already has a PhilSys ID and can vouch for you). Check the PSA website for the current accepted list, because it is updated from time to time.

Step 3: Visit the registration center

On your appointment date:

1. Present your appointment slip and original documents.
2. Have your biometrics captured: a front-facing photo, fingerprints, and iris scans.
3. Review your information and confirm that it is correct.
4. Get your transaction slip, which has your tracking number. Keep it safe.

The whole visit usually takes under an hour, depending on the center.

Step 4: Wait for delivery

Your PhilID is delivered by the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) to your address. Delivery times vary by location, and remote areas can take longer. While waiting, you can follow your application using the tracking number from your transaction slip. We explain this in our tracking and verification guide.

Step 5: Check and use your ID

Once you receive your card, check that every detail is correct. If you find an error, request a correction through the PSA. You can also look into the digital national id option so you always have a digital proof of identity on hand. See where you can use your ID.

Tips for a smooth registration

• Use your legal name exactly as in your birth certificate.
• Double-check spelling and birthdate before submitting.
• Arrive early, with a valid mobile number.
• Never pay anyone for registration. It is free, and anyone charging you is a scammer.
• Keep your transaction slip until the card arrives.

Frequently asked questions

Is the National ID mandatory? The law makes the PhilID a valid proof of identity, but registration is voluntary in practice for many services. Registering is still strongly recommended.

Does the ID expire? The PhilSys Number is permanent. Check PSA guidance on card validity and replacement.

What if I lose my card? Report it to the PSA and request a replacement as instructed on the official website.

Getting your National ID is one of the most useful steps you can take for easier access to banks, government services, and social benefits. Register early, follow the steps above, and consider the digital national id for convenient everyday use.