National ID Requirements Philippines 2026: What to Bring
The requirements for a Philippine National ID are not the same for everyone. What a first-time adult applicant needs is different from what a parent brings for a minor, or what a senior citizen can use. And if you are going for the Digital National ID through the eGovPH app, the requirements are completely different again. This guide walks you through everything you need for your PhilSys ID, whether you are an adult, a student, a senior, or applying on behalf of a child.
Basic National ID Requirements for Adults
For Filipino adults aged 18 and above, PhilSys has categorized supporting documents into two classes, primary and secondary. Bringing a primary document makes the whole process faster and less stressful. The official list is published at philsys.gov.ph/supporting-documents.
Primary Documents (Present One)
If you have any of the following, you only need to bring one.
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| PSA Birth Certificate + one government-issued photo ID | The photo ID must show your name and your signature or thumbmark |
| Philippine Passport | Valid or recently expired |
| UMID Card (SSS or GSIS) | Unified Multi-Purpose ID |
| Driver’s License or Student Driver’s Permit | Issued by LTO |
Secondary Documents (If You Have No Primary Document)
If a primary document is not available, the PSA might accept secondary documents. You can bring the following documents:
| Document | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|
| PRC ID | Professional Regulation Commission |
| Voter’s ID or Voter Certification | Commission on Elections |
| PhilHealth ID | Philippine Health Insurance Corporation |
| Pag-IBIG ID | Home Development Mutual Fund |
| Senior Citizen ID | Office for Senior Citizens Affairs |
| PWD ID | National Council on Disability Affairs |
| School ID with Registration Form | School / University |
| Barangay Certification | Local Barangay Office |
Important: Always bring originals. Carry a photocopy of each document as a backup, but do not expect a photocopy alone to be accepted for verification.
National ID Requirements for Students
Students in high school and college can register without any issues. A School ID on its own is considered as a secondary document. While applying for National Id bring your PSA Birth Certificate and student id.
What students can bring:
National ID Requirements for Minors (Below 18 Years Old)
Children from age 1 can already be registered. A parent or legal guardian handles the application and must be physically present on the day.
What to bring for a minor:
Biometric collection depends on the child’s age:
| Age | What Is Captured |
|---|---|
| 1 to 4 years | Photo and demographic information only |
| 5 to 17 years | Full biometrics: photo, fingerprints, iris scan |
| Around age 15 | Biometric recapture may be required |
| At age 18 | Mandatory update to capture accurate adult biometrics |
National ID Requirements for Senior Citizens
If you are a senior citizen, then document requirements are same for you as any other adult. The difference is that you do not have to wait in the regular queue. Priority lanes are available at national registration centers nationwide. Acceptable supporting papers for seniors:
Dress Code Requirement for National ID Registration
Your photo gets captured during national id registration, so PSA has the dress code you must follow. You should wear:
Requirements for a Lost or Damaged Card
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for national id replacement at any PSA office. Here is what you need to prepare:
If only the photo has peeled off your card, the replacement is free of charge.
For physically damaged cards, bring the damaged card with you. Your PhilSys Number stays the same. Only the card itself is replaced.
Updating Your Record After a Change of Status
If your civil status changes, or you recently got married, you will need to update your PhilSys record.
What to bring:
Head to your nearest PSA office or registration center to process the update. Address changes and other demographic corrections can be done through the same channel.
Requirements for the Digital National ID
The Digital National ID is the official electronic version of your PhilSys ID. It is accessible through the eGovPH app and carries the exact same legal validity as the physical card under Republic Act 11055. Banks, government offices, airlines, and private institutions are required to accept it.
Unlike the physical card, you apply for it entirely through your phone or computer. However, you do need to upload one valid ID for identity verification before your account gets approved.
What you need
Before you start, make sure you have the following ready:
Document required: one valid ID for upload
During the application, you will be asked to upload one valid ID for identity verification. Select your ID type from the dropdown menu in the app, then scan or photograph it clearly.
Check your information carefully before submitting. Errors can cause your account to be rejected and you will need to reapply.
Conclusion
By now you know that Philippine National ID requirements. The documents you need depend on your age, your situation, and the type of application you are making. A first-time adult applicant needs a primary document or the right combination.
A parent registering a child needs the child’s PSA Birth Certificate and must show up in person. A senior citizen has flexible options and does not have to queue. Someone replacing a lost card needs a notarized affidavit and around P135.
And someone going for the Digital National ID can skip the registration center entirely, as long as they have one valid ID ready to upload through the eGovPH app. You now have everything you need to walk in prepared and walk out registered.
