What Is the Philippine National ID (PhilSys)?

The Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) is the national government's initiative to provide every Filipino citizen and resident alien with a single, unified identification document — the Philippine National ID (also called the PhilSys ID or ePhilID). It is mandated under Republic Act No. 11055.

Once fully implemented, the National ID is intended to simplify public and private transactions, reduce the need to carry multiple IDs, and help the government deliver social services more efficiently.

Who Can Register?

  • All Filipino citizens, regardless of age (including minors with parental consent)
  • Resident aliens (foreign nationals living in the Philippines)
  • Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) can register through Philippine Overseas Labor Offices

What You'll Need Before You Register

Prepare at least one primary document or a combination of supporting documents:

Primary Documents (any one)

  • PSA-issued Birth Certificate
  • Passport
  • UMID Card
  • Driver's License
  • Voter's ID or Voter's Certification

Supporting Documents (if no primary doc is available — at least two)

  • PhilHealth ID
  • Postal ID
  • School ID (for students)
  • Barangay Certificate with photo
  • NBI Clearance

Step-by-Step Registration Process

  1. Step 1 – Online Pre-Registration
    Visit the official PhilSys website (philsys.gov.ph) and complete the online registration form. You'll enter your personal information and upload required documents. At the end, you'll receive a transaction reference number (TRN).
  2. Step 2 – Schedule a Registration Center Appointment
    After pre-registration, schedule an appointment at your nearest PhilSys registration center. Centers are located in PSA offices, local government units, malls, and community centers nationwide.
  3. Step 3 – On-Site Biometric Capture
    Bring your TRN and original documents to your appointment. Staff will verify your information and capture your:
    • Photograph
    • All 10 fingerprints
    • Iris scan
  4. Step 4 – Receive Your ePhilID
    While you wait for your physical card, you'll receive a printed ePhilID — a transaction slip with a QR code that serves as a valid temporary ID. The physical card will be delivered to your registered address via PhilPost.

Is It Free?

Yes — registration for the Philippine National ID is completely free for all eligible individuals. There are no fees for first-time registration or for receiving the ID card.

How to Use Your National ID

The PhilSys ID is accepted as a valid primary ID for:

  • Opening bank accounts
  • Applying for government benefits (SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG)
  • Booking travel and hotel accommodations
  • Voter registration and other LGU transactions
  • Employment background verification

What If Your Card Gets Lost or Damaged?

Report a lost or damaged National ID to the nearest PSA office. A replacement process is available, though it may involve a replacement fee for subsequent requests after the first issuance. Always keep your PhilSys Number (PSN) in a secure place — it is your permanent identification number for life.