Philippine National ID Registration Process & Requirements

Having a valid form of identification is a common challenge for many Filipinos, often leading to difficulties when transacting with government agencies and private institutions. To address this, the Philippine government launched the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys), which provides Filipino citizens and non-Filipino residents with a Philippine National ID (PhilID).

The PhilSys program has made significant progress since its initial rollout. As of mid-2025, over 93 million Filipinos have successfully registered for the National ID system. While online registration was introduced to streamline the first step, the process still requires an in-person appointment for the capture of biometric data, such as fingerprints, an iris scan, and a front-facing photograph.

The government has also made strides in delivering the ID cards, though a backlog still exists. To address this, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has rolled out alternative forms of the ID, including the ePhilID (a paper-format ID) and a digital National ID accessible through the eGovPH app, both of which have the same functionality and validity as the physical card.

Why apply for a Philippine national ID?

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), “The PhilID is a foundational ID which serves as a valid proof of identity which would help ease transactions with both government and private sector through easier validation and authentication of identity.” (In other words, the goal is to do away with the need to present other valid forms of identification.)

It will ease both private and government-related transactions

The PhilID will serve as a valid ID for both Filipinos and non-Filipinos residing in the Philippines, and will officially consolidate other previously issued government IDs. These include SSS, PAG-IBIG, PhilHealth, passport, voter’s registration, TIN, and driver’s license numbers.

PhilID registration is free

Registration for the Philippine National ID will be completely free of charge. Fees will only apply for replacement due to damage or loss; however, fees will be waived for holders of a Certificate of Indigency, so long as they can present their certificates.

For Filipino cardholders, the PhilID has no expiration date

Yes, you read that right — Filipinos will enjoy lifelong validity once registered for the Philippine National ID. For resident aliens, on the other hand, validity will only last for one year.

For both cases, the PhilID is permanent. Each individual will be assigned a 12-digit PhilSys number or personal serial number (PSN) and a 16-digit PhilSys card number (PCN).

How to register for the Philippine National ID

According to the PSA, Philippine National ID registration just takes three simple steps. 

Step one: Collection of demographic information

As of 30 Apr 2021, resident Filipinos may accomplish step one online. (However, at the time of writing, the system is still undergoing technical difficulties.)

The following information will be asked of you:

• Name

• Sex

• Date of birth

• Place of birth

• Blood type

• Address

• Optional information: Marital status, cellphone number, email address

After submitting your information, you may set an appointment for step two at the registration centre closest to you. 

Note: For those who have already completed the first step through house-to-house collection, there is no need to register online. Please wait for details for step two to be sent to you via the contact details you provided.

Step two: Capturing of biometric information

This step must be done in person. Don’t forget to bring a copy of your transaction number and the necessary supporting documents:

1. PSA-issued birth certificate

2. One government-issued ID which bears your full name, front-facing photograph,and signature or thumbprint

The following biometric information will be captured:

• Fingerprint

• Iris scan

• Front-facing photograph

• Validation of supporting documents

Step three: Issuance of PhilSys Number (PSN) and PhilID

Your PhilID will be delivered straight to your doorstep via PHLPost. PhilSys reminds everyone not to post photos of their IDs on social media upon receiving them, as they contain personal information. 

Also read: Philippine Postal ID: Why You Should Get One & How to Apply [UPDATED 2021]

While it will certainly take time before the Philippine National ID system is fully implemented, we highly encourage you to register for yours as soon as possible. For updates and more information, visit the PSA Philippine Identification System’s official Facebook page.

Featured image credit: Philippine News Agency | Official Website