Quick Update: As of September 2024, over 90 million Filipinos have registered for the National ID system. The digital version (ePhilID) is now available for immediate use while waiting for your physical card.
What is the Philippine National ID?
The Philippine National ID, also called PhilID or PhilSys ID, is the official government identification card for all Filipino citizens and resident aliens. It was created under Republic Act No. 11055, signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on August 6, 2018.
This single ID replaces the need for multiple government IDs. It makes transactions faster and easier with both government offices and private companies.
Key Features
- 12-digit PhilSys Number (PSN) - Your unique, permanent ID number
- PhilSys Card Number (PCN) - The number printed on your card for daily use
- Biometric data - Fingerprints, iris scan, and photo for security
- QR code - For quick digital verification
- No expiration - Valid for life for Filipino citizens
Three Types of National ID
Physical Card (PhilID)
The plastic card delivered to your home by PHLPost. This is the most common format most people wait for.
Paper Format (ePhilID)
A printed version you can claim immediately at PSA centers after registration. Free of charge and fully valid.
Digital National ID
Electronic version accessible through the eGovPH app or national-id.gov.ph website. Available right after registration.
Important: All three formats have the same legal validity. You can use any format for government and private transactions.
Who Can Register?
The National ID is available to:
- All Filipino citizens - From newborns to seniors, including those living abroad
- Resident aliens - Foreigners who have lived in the Philippines for at least 6 months
- Dual citizens - Must provide proof of Filipino citizenship
- Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) - Can register at Philippine embassies or consulates
For Children: Minors under 5 years old only need a photo and basic info. Their PhilSys Number links to their parent or guardian. Full biometrics are captured at ages 5 and 15.
Benefits of Having a National ID
🏦 Banking Made Easy
Open bank accounts, apply for loans, and complete financial transactions with just one ID.
🏥 Faster Healthcare
Access PhilHealth benefits and medical services quickly with verified identity.
🏛️ Government Services
No more juggling multiple IDs for SSS, Pag-IBIG, voter registration, or passport applications.
💼 Job Applications
Instant proof of identity for employment verification and background checks.
🎓 Education
Use it for school enrollment and scholarship applications.
🔒 Enhanced Security
Biometric verification prevents fraud and identity theft.
Registration Requirements
Primary Documents (Bring ONE of these)
| Document Type | Additional Notes |
|---|---|
| PSA-issued Birth Certificate | Must bring ONE government ID with photo and signature |
| Philippine Passport | Valid or expired passport accepted |
| UMID Card | Issued by SSS or GSIS |
| Driver's License | Student permit, non-professional, or professional license |
Secondary Documents (If no primary documents available)
You can use two or more of these documents that contain your name, photo, and signature:
- Employee ID
- School ID
- Voter's ID or Certification
- Senior Citizen ID
- PWD ID
- Barangay Clearance or Certification
- NBI Clearance
- Police Clearance
How to Register: Step-by-Step Guide
1Prepare Your Documents
Gather at least one primary document or two secondary documents. Make sure they are original copies, not photocopies.
2Online Pre-Registration (Optional)
Visit register.philsys.gov.ph to fill out your information and book an appointment. You'll receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) and QR code.
Note: Online pre-registration may be temporarily unavailable. If it is, skip to walk-in registration.
3Visit a Registration Center
Go to your nearest PhilSys registration center. You can find centers at:
- PSA offices nationwide
- Local Government Unit (LGU) offices
- Mall-based centers (SM Supermalls, etc.)
- Mobile units (PhilSys on Wheels)
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday
4Provide Biometric Data
At the center, you'll undergo:
- Fingerprint scanning (all 10 fingers)
- Iris scanning (both eyes)
- Front-facing photograph
- Demographic data validation
5Review and Confirm Information
Double-check all your details are correct. Mistakes can delay your ID or require paid corrections later.
6Receive Your Transaction Reference Number (TRN)
You'll get a transaction slip with your TRN. Keep this safe! You'll need it to track your ID delivery and access your digital ID.
How to Get Your Digital National ID
Don't wait for the physical card! Access your digital ID immediately after registration:
Method 1: Using the Website
- Go to national-id.gov.ph
- Enter your first name, middle name, last name, and birthdate
- Click "Continue" and allow PSA to verify your identity
- Complete face verification (make sure you have good lighting)
- Download your digital ID
Method 2: Using eGovPH App
- Download the eGovPH app from Google Play or App Store
- Create an account or log in
- Navigate to National ID section
- Complete verification process
- Access your digital ID anytime on your phone
Pro Tip: The digital ID works immediately for banks, government offices, and online verification. You don't need the physical card for most transactions.
Tracking Your Physical Card Delivery
Your physical National ID will be delivered by PHLPost to your registered address. Delivery usually takes 2-8 weeks depending on your location.
How to Track
- Visit tracking.phlpost.gov.ph
- Enter your Transaction Reference Number (TRN)
- View real-time delivery status
Delivery Status Examples:
- Dispatched: Your card has left the processing center
- In Transit: Your card is on the way to your city
- Out for Delivery: The card will arrive today or tomorrow
- Delivered: Someone at your address received the card
Common Problems and Solutions
Lost or Damaged Physical Card
File a notarized affidavit of loss at the police station or barangay. Visit PSA to apply for a replacement. Replacement fee: ₱135.
Wrong Information on Card
Visit a PhilSys registration center offering update services. Bring supporting documents. Free if the error was the government's fault.
Can't Download Digital ID
Check your internet connection. Try during non-peak hours. If it fails, email info@philsys.gov.ph or call hotline 1388.
Card Not Accepted
Under RA 11055, establishments must accept the National ID. Non-acceptance without valid reason can result in ₱500,000 fine. Report violations to PSA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the National ID free?
Yes! Initial registration and first issuance are completely free. You only pay (₱135) if you need a replacement due to loss or damage.
Does the National ID expire?
No expiration for Filipino citizens. For resident aliens, it's valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Can I use screenshots of my digital ID?
No. Screenshots are not valid. You must show the original digital ID from the eGovPH app or website.
Can I print my digital ID at home?
You can print the ePhilID paper format for reference, but printing it on plastic or PVC card is strictly prohibited. Only PSA can issue official National IDs.
What if I already registered but haven't received my card?
Track your delivery using your TRN at PHLPost. Meanwhile, you can claim your paper format at PSA offices or use your digital ID for transactions.
Do I still need other government IDs?
The National ID doesn't replace your passport, driver's license, or PRC license. But it can replace most other IDs like SSS, PhilHealth, or Pag-IBIG IDs for transactions.
How do I update my address or other information?
Visit a registration center offering update services. Bring your National ID and supporting documents showing your new information.
Important Websites and Contact Information
| Service | Website/Contact |
|---|---|
| Official PhilSys Website | philsys.gov.ph |
| Digital ID Download | national-id.gov.ph |
| Online Registration | register.philsys.gov.ph |
| Track Your Card | tracking.phlpost.gov.ph |
| PSA Hotline | 1388 |
| Email Support | info@philsys.gov.ph |
Security and Privacy
The National ID system follows strict data protection rules under the Data Privacy Act of 2012:
- Minimal data collection - Only essential information is stored
- Tokenization - Your sensitive PSN is protected and replaced with the PCN for daily use
- Biometric security - Advanced fingerprint and iris scanning prevent fraud
- No socioeconomic data - The system doesn't collect information about religion, politics, criminal records, or financial status
- Privacy-by-design - Built with security as the top priority
Stay Safe: Never share your PhilSys Number (PSN) unless required by law. Use the PhilSys Card Number (PCN) for general transactions.
Final Tips for a Smooth Registration
- Bring original documents, not photocopies
- Arrive early to avoid long lines
- Double-check spelling of your name matches your birth certificate
- Keep your TRN safe - you'll need it multiple times
- Access your digital ID right after registration instead of waiting months
- Save the digital ID on your phone for easy access
- If you have existing IDs with different name spellings, update them first to match your birth certificate
Ready to Register?
The Philippine National ID is your gateway to easier, faster transactions. Don't wait - register today and join over 90 million Filipinos who already have their PhilSys Number!