What is the Philippine National ID?
The National ID Philippine, also called PhilID or PhilSys ID, is your official government identification card. It is part of the Philippine Identification System that started in 2018 under Republic Act No. 11055.
This ID serves as proof of your identity for all transactions with government offices and private companies. It makes life easier because you only need one ID instead of many different cards.
Key Features of the National ID
- 12-digit PhilSys Number (PSN) - Your unique permanent ID number
- No expiration - Valid for life for Filipino citizens
- Free to get - First-time registration costs nothing
- Three formats - Physical card, paper version, and digital copy
- QR code - For quick verification and authentication
Benefits of Having a National ID
✓ One ID for Everything
Use it for bank accounts, government services, and private transactions
✓ Faster Transactions
No more bringing multiple IDs to different offices
✓ Digital Access
Get services online without physical documents
✓ Better Security
Biometric data protects against identity theft
Who Can Register?
Almost everyone in the Philippines can get a National ID:
- All Filipino citizens, including those living abroad
- Foreign residents who have lived in the Philippines for 6 months or more
- Children of any age (even newborns can be registered)
- Dual citizens with proof of Filipino citizenship
Registration Requirements
Primary Documents (Bring at least one)
- Philippine Passport
- PSA Birth Certificate + one government ID with photo and signature
- UMID Card (from GSIS or SSS)
- Driver's License (from LTO)
Secondary Documents (if you don't have primary ones)
You can use two or more secondary documents such as:
- School ID with photo
- Employee ID with photo
- Barangay certificate or clearance
- Voter's ID
- Postal ID
How to Register: Step-by-Step Guide
Visit a Registration Center
Go to any PhilSys center with your documents. You can walk in or book online at register.philsys.gov.ph
Submit Your Documents
Show your ID and complete the registration form with your personal information
Biometric Data Capture
They will take your fingerprints, iris scan, and photo at the center
Review and Confirm
Check all your information carefully before submitting
Get Your Transaction Slip
You'll receive a slip with your Transaction Reference Number (TRN). Keep it safe!
Wait for Delivery
Your physical card will be delivered by PHLPost to your address for free
Where to Register
- PSA offices nationwide
- Local Government Units (LGU)
- Mall-based centers (SM Supermalls, Robinsons)
- PhilSys on Wheels (mobile registration units)
- Philippine embassies and consulates (for OFWs)
How to Get Your Digital National ID
You can access your digital ID copy even before your physical card arrives. Here's how:
Method 1: Official Website
- Go to national-id.gov.ph
- Enter your first name, middle name, last name, and birthdate
- Click "Continue"
- Complete the facial recognition (take a live selfie)
- Download your digital ID as a PDF
Method 2: eGovPH App
Download the eGovPH app from Google Play or App Store. Access your Digital National ID through the app with facial verification.
- Same validity as the physical card
- No need to wait for delivery
- Always available on your phone
- Accepted for government and private transactions
- Backup if you lose your physical card
How to Track Your National ID Delivery
Want to know where your physical card is? Follow these simple steps:
- Visit tracking.phlpost.gov.ph
- Enter your 29-digit Transaction Reference Number (TRN)
- Click "Track"
- Check your delivery status
Delivery Status Meanings
| Status | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Not Found | Your ID is still being processed by PSA |
| Dispatched | Card has been sent to PHLPost for delivery |
| In Transit | Card is on its way to your local post office |
| Out for Delivery | Postman is bringing it to your address today |
| Delivered | You or someone received the card |
Common Questions About National ID
Delivery time varies from 2 weeks to several months. It depends on your location and how many people registered. You can use your digital ID while waiting.
No, it is not required by law. However, having one makes transactions much easier since it is accepted everywhere.
For Filipino citizens, the ID never expires. You only need to update it if your information changes. For foreign residents, it is valid for one year and must be renewed.
Visit any registration center to report the error. If the mistake was made by the government, replacement is free.
Yes. Leave an authorization letter, a copy of your ID, and your transaction slip with them.
It is your permanent 12-digit ID number. This number stays with you for life and is used to identify you in the system.
Yes. The system follows the Data Privacy Act of 2012. Your information is protected with high security measures and tokenization.
No. You still need a passport for traveling abroad. The National ID is for domestic use only.
What to Do If You Lose Your National ID
- File a notarized Affidavit of Loss at the police station or barangay
- Visit a PSA registration center
- Present your affidavit and one valid ID
- Pay the replacement fee (around ₱135)
- Wait for your new card to be delivered
Important Contact Information
| Service | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| PhilSys Email | info@philsys.gov.ph |
| Official Website | philsys.gov.ph |
| Digital ID Portal | national-id.gov.ph |
| Tracking Website | tracking.phlpost.gov.ph |
| Registration Portal | register.philsys.gov.ph |
Quick Tips for a Smooth Registration
- Bring original documents, not photocopies
- Arrive early to avoid long lines
- Dress appropriately for your ID photo
- Keep your transaction slip in a safe place
- Update your address if you move before delivery
- Check your information carefully before confirming
- Download your Digital ID right after registration
Final Thoughts
The Philippine National ID is changing how Filipinos access services. It brings convenience, security, and speed to everyday transactions. Whether you need to open a bank account, apply for government benefits, or verify your identity, this one card does it all.
Don't wait—register today and enjoy the benefits of having a single, reliable, government-issued ID!