Having a Philippine National ID can be handy since it makes transactions easier. Aside from containing an individual’s personal details, the ID stores their SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth information. So, individuals no longer have to present multiple IDs to prove their identity. If one wishes to get an ID, they can register at active centers or logging through the National ID link.

What is a National ID?

The Philippine National ID is a government-issued form of identification that Filipino citizens and alien residents can use when transacting with government and private organizations. The card contains the individual’s name, gender, birthday, address, blood type, and civil status.

In addition, the ID has a smart chip that holds the individual’s biometrics, iris scan, and facial image reception code. As mentioned previously, one’s National ID also contains the following information for easier transactions:

• SSS 
• Pag-IBIG
• PhilHealth
• Passport number
• Voter’s registration number
• Tax Identification Number (TIN)
• Driver’s license number

The Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) handles the registration and printing of National IDs. Registration for the ID isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly encouraged since individuals can use it for the issuance and provisions of government services.

What are the requirements for the National ID Registration?

If an individual wishes to register for a National ID, PhilSys requires them to bring an original copy of any of the following:

• Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-issued Birth Certificate and one valid ID
• Philippine Passport
• GSIS or SSS-issued Unified Multi-purpose Identification Card (UMID)
• Student’s License Permit or Driver’s license

However, if one doesn’t have any of the aforementioned documents, they can bring any of these secondary documents:

• Local Civil Registry Office (LCRO)-issued Birth Certificate
• Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) ID
• Seaman’s Book
• Senior Citizen’s ID
• NBI Clearance
• Police Clearance
• Voter’s ID
• Postal ID

How do I register for a National ID?

Once the individual obtains their requirements, they can proceed to registration.

Do note that there used to be PhilSys online registration for National ID, but it was recently disabled. So, individuals must proceed directly to their nearest registration center. They can refer here for a complete list of active centers per region.

The old registration process involves the following steps:

1. Log on to the National ID online registration link in the Philippines, which they can find on the PhilSys website.
2. Fill out the required fields and submit the application form.
3. Save or print a copy of the Application Reference Number (ARN) and QR code.
4. Prepare an original copy of the requirements.
5. Proceed to the nearest registration center on the scheduled appointment, and submit the requirements.
6. Wait for the delivery of Philsys National ID.

The new process doesn’t require individuals to finish the online registration through the National ID link. So, they can directly bring an original copy of their requirements to their chosen registration center.

How do I claim my National ID card?

Individuals don’t have to worry about claiming their National ID because the Philippine Post Office (PHLPost) will deliver it to their registered home address.

Do note that the processing of their application can take months to complete. However, the individual can track the status of their National ID in the link here.

All they have to do is enter the Transaction Reference Number (TRN) on the website. The TRN is a 29-digit number that an individual can find on their PhilSys Transaction Slip.

If the results on the tracking website come out as “Not Found,” it means their application isn’t done processing yet. While if it shows “In Transit,” it means their ID is available, and it’s on its way.

However, if an individual doesn’t want to wait for their National ID to arrive, they can download or print their ePhilID.

What is an ePhilID?

An ePhilID is a digital version of an individual’s National ID. One has the option to download a PDF file or print their ID. Aside from the PhilSys, the PSA can provide them a printed copy of their National ID in the link here.  

The PSA online registration for National ID requires one to make an appointment to claim their ePhilID. Here are the following steps for the process:

1. Fill out the necessary details on the PSA National ID registration form, and click Submit.
2. Enter the verification code that’s sent through their mobile number or email.
3. Choose the nearest center, date, and time of the appointment.
4. Save and print a copy of the appointment slip.
5. Present the appointment slip, PhilSys Transaction Slip, and valid ID on the appointment to claim ePhilID.

Final Thoughts

Acquiring a National ID can be handy since it streamlines transactions since individuals will only need to present one ID to prove their identity. PhilSys has made the registration process easier by eliminating online registration through the National ID link. Instead, individuals can go straight to the nearest active registration center and finish the process in one go.

Keep Reading: GUIDE: How To Enroll for OSCA Senior Citizen ID