List of Acceptable Valid IDs in the Philippines [Primary and Secondary]

In the Philippines, you need to have valid government-issued identification cards (IDs) to complete transactions with government agencies and private organizations. These IDs prove your identity and are required for many official processes, such as applying for a passport, taking professional exams, and more.

There are two main types of valid IDs in the Philippines:

  1. Primary IDs: These are the most widely accepted forms of identification. Examples include passports, driver’s licenses, and the Philippine Identification (PhilID) card. It’s recommended to have at least two primary IDs on hand.
  2. Secondary IDs: While not as commonly accepted as primary IDs, these can still be used to verify identity in many situations. Examples include the Tax Identification Number (TIN) card, Postal ID, and various certifications from local government offices.

When presenting a valid ID, it’s a good idea to also bring a photocopy, as some organizations may request it. Having the proper identification ready can help streamline transactions and ensure they are processed smoothly.

List of Valid IDs in the Philippines – Primary

  • Philippine Passport from the Department of Foreign Affairs
  • Philippine National ID
  • SSS ID or SSS UMID Card from the Social Security System (SSS)
  • GSIS ID or GSIS UMID Card Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)
  • Driver’s License from Land Transportation Office (LTO)
  • PRC ID from the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC)
  • OWWA ID Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
  • iDOLE Card from the Department of Labor and Employment (iDOLE)
  • Voter’s ID from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC)
  • Voter’s Certification from the Officer of Election with Dry Seal
  • Firearms License from the Philippine National Police (PNP)
  • Senior Citizen ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)
  • Persons with Disabilities (PWD) ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)
  • NBI Clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)
  • Alien Certification of Registration or Immigrant Certificate of Registration
  • PhilHealth ID (digitized PVC)
  • Government Office and GOCC ID
  • Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID
  • School ID (for students) from the current School or University
  • Current Valid ePassport (For Renewal of ePassport)
  • Applicants based overseas may use their host government-issued IDs showing their Philippine citizenship. (Example: Residence Card)

List of Valid IDs in the Philippines – Secondary

  • TIN ID
  • Postal ID (issued after year 2015)
  • Barangay Certification
  • Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
  • Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
  • Seaman’s Book
  • Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
  • Company IDs issued by Private Entities or Institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the BSP, SEC, or IC
  • Police Clearance
  • Barangay Clearance
  • Cedula or Community Tax Certificate
  • Government Service Record
  • Land Title
  • Elementary or High School Form 137 for students
  • Transcript of Records from University or College
  • PSA Marriage Contract
  • PSA Birth Certificate

Source: DFA – Government Website

Key Points To Remember

  • Banks do not accept voters’ ID as the primary ID
  • You can use TIN ID for taking the Civil Service Exam (CSE)
  • DFA does not accept Postal ID as the primary ID for issuing Passports