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Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Essential Government IDs

Para tuloy-tuloy ang negosyo at personal transactions mo, mahalagang kumpleto ka sa pangunahing government IDs tulad ng SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, passport, NBI, at driver’s license. Narito ang summary ng requirements, proseso, at fees as of 2025.

What you’ll learn in this government IDs guide

This step-by-step guide to essential government IDs in the Philippines covers requirements, processes, and typical fees for SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, passport, NBI clearance, GSIS, and LTO driver’s licenses.

If you are preparing to hire staff or formalize your business, also see our Hiring Your First Staff Member Guide and SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG Employer Registration Guide.

To prepare for your LTO driver’s license exam, you can also practice using our free LTO Driving License Exam Practice tool.

1. SSS ID (UMID Card)

Requirements

  • Filipino citizen and SSS member with at least one posted contribution
  • Two valid IDs (e.g., passport, driver’s license, voter’s ID, etc.)
  • PSA birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)

Process

  1. Download and fill out the UMID application form.
  2. Submit the form and required documents at the nearest SSS branch.
  3. Undergo biometrics capture (photo, fingerprints, signature).
  4. Wait around 30–60 days for card delivery.

Fees

Free for first-time applicants; around ₱200 for lost or damaged card replacement.

2. PhilHealth ID

Requirements

  • PhilHealth membership registration
  • PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF)
  • Valid government ID
  • Proof of income (payslip, certificate of employment, or tax return for self-employed)

Process

  1. Register online or visit the nearest PhilHealth office.
  2. Submit the accomplished PMRF and supporting documents.
  3. Wait for your PhilHealth ID to be printed/issued.

Fees

Standard paper ID is free. Optional PVC ID may have a small fee (around ₱90, varies by branch).

3. PAG-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus

Requirements

  • Active PAG-IBIG membership
  • Two valid government-issued IDs
  • Filled-out PAG-IBIG application form
  • Two pieces recent 1x1 ID photos (if required by branch)

Process

  1. Fill out the PAG-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus application form.
  2. Submit IDs, photos, and form at a PAG-IBIG branch or enrollment center.
  3. Undergo biometrics capture.
  4. Pay the processing fee (see below).
  5. Claim the card (same day or after a few days, depending on branch).

Fees

Around ₱125 for Loyalty Card Plus processing.

4. Philippine Passport

Requirements

  • Accomplished e-Passport application form
  • Valid IDs (driver’s license, voter’s ID, SSS/GSIS ID, PRC ID, etc.)
  • PSA birth certificate

Process

  1. Schedule an appointment via the official DFA online system.
  2. Appear at the chosen DFA site with your documents and printed confirmation.
  3. Submit application, pay the corresponding fee, and undergo biometrics capture.
  4. Return or wait for delivery once the passport is ready.

Fees

  • Regular processing: around ₱950 (~12 business days)
  • Expedited processing: around ₱1,200 (~6–7 business days)

5. Birth Certificate (PSA)

Requirements

Basic personal information (full name, date and place of birth, parents’ names) for online or in-person request.

Process

  1. Request online through the official PSA or authorized partner website, or visit a PSA Serbilis Center.
  2. Fill out the request form and provide required details.
  3. Pay the fee and provide delivery/pick-up instructions.
  4. Wait for delivery or pick up the document on the scheduled date.

Fees

  • Online request (with delivery): around ₱365 per copy
  • Walk-in PSA Serbilis Center: around ₱155 per copy

6. NBI Clearance

Requirements

  • Online registration and accomplished NBI clearance form
  • Valid ID for identity verification

Process

  1. Register and apply online via the official NBI Clearance website.
  2. Choose a branch and schedule your appointment.
  3. Pay the clearance fee using the available payment channels.
  4. Go to the branch for biometrics capture and final verification.
  5. Receive your clearance (same day in most branches).

Fees

  • Regular NBI clearance: around ₱130 + ₱25 service fee
  • Renewal or special clearances: up to around ₱330 + service fee (varies)
  • Some expedited or special processes may cost up to around ₱500

7. GSIS ID (UMID Card)

Requirements

  • Active GSIS member
  • Two valid government-issued IDs

Process

  1. Fill out the UMID application form provided by GSIS.
  2. Submit the form and supporting IDs to the GSIS office.
  3. Undergo biometrics capture.
  4. Wait for the card to be processed and released.

Fees

Free for first-time applicants; around ₱200 for card replacement.

8. Driver’s License (LTO)

Requirements (First-time Non-Professional)

  • Valid student permit
  • Medical certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic
  • PSA birth certificate
  • Completion of required driving course/training

Process

  1. Apply for and hold a student permit for the required period.
  2. Practice driving and complete the accredited driving course.
  3. Schedule a visit to an LTO office or driving center.
  4. Take and pass the written and practical driving exams.
  5. Pay the license fees and claim your driver’s license.

Fees (Approximate)

  • Student permit: around ₱317.63 (application, permit, computer fee) + medical and driving school fees (~₱2,000)
  • Non-professional license: around ₱685 + medical, possible drug test, and any police/NBI clearances
  • Renewal: around ₱585–₱835 + possible penalties and medical fees
  • International driving permit: around ₱3,920 + photo and other minor fees

📌 Important Reminders

  • The steps, requirements, and fees above are summaries as of 2025. Government policies and prices can change, so always verify via the official website or office of the agency.
  • Bring multiple valid IDs and photocopies when visiting branches to avoid repeat trips.
  • As much as possible, use official online portals (SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, DFA, NBI, LTO, GSIS, PSA) to set appointments and pay fees securely.
  • Avoid fixers and third-party agents that promise faster processing for extra fees—stick to legit and official channels.