Reality bites, doesn't it? Or should we say, adulting bites? The
“real world” can be scary, tough, and intimidating especially
for fresh graduates. After all, it is the ultimate playground to
test all the learnings you absorbed in school. You don’t have to
do it alone though, and we’re here to help you navigate the
first steps in the adulting stage—securing valid IDs.
Whether applying for a job, opening a bank account, or
starting a business, these IDs serve as your weapons to
successfully survive the real world such as climbing the
corporate ladder and being financially secured. Here’s a simple
guide to familiarize you with the valid IDs you will need in the
Philippines.
1. Philippine Passport
*A Powerhouse ID*
A Philippine Passport is one of the most recognized and
most powerful IDs in the country. More than just a ticket to
international travel, it is also used as a valid identification
for various transactions such as job applications, bank, and
other government transactions. Prioritize getting this ID even
if you don’t have an international travel soon.
To apply, you can visit either the Department of Foreign
Affairs main office, or any regional office near you. For extra
convenience, you can also visit their satellite offices in
malls. All you need is a copy of your birth certificate, a valid
government-issued ID, and a few passport-sized (35x45 mm)
photos.
**Adulting Pro Tip:**
• Apply for a passport with 10-year validity if you’re 18
years old and above to save yourself from renewing every few
years.
• Avoid stamping or stapling your travel tickets as it can
invalidate your passport.
https://passport.gov.ph/
2. Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID)
*Your All-in-One ID*
Also known as Single ID Card, the UMID is issued by the
Social Security System (SSS), and contains all information about
SSS, GSIS, PhilHealth, and PAG-IBIG. Being a versatile card, it
holds the same amount of power as the Philippine Passport and is
considered a must for fresh graduates as it makes many
government-related transactions easier and stress-free.
What’s good about UMID is that it’s valid for a lifetime
so you no longer have to renew or get a new card every few
years! All you need is a duly filled UMID application form and a
copy of one valid government-issued ID to process your UMID.
**Adulting Pro Tip:** Replacement of lost or broken UMID
card costs around P200 so do take care when you place it in bags
or wallets.
3. National ID
*Your Personal ID*
If your school ID is your proof that you are a student in
your school or university, your national ID or PhilSys ID is
your proof that you are a Filipino citizen. Issued by the
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the national ID is valid
for lifetime and can be used for various face-to-face and
digital transactions such as applying for a passport or driver’s
license, tax-related transactions and claiming
government-benefits.
You will need your birth certificate and one valid
government-issued ID as part of the requirements. Once ready,
you can book an appointment and start your application at a
PhilSys registration center near you. You can check here for
list of registration centers:
https://philsys.gov.ph/registration-center/
**Adulting Pro Tip:** According to the Republic Act 11055
or the Philippine Identification System Act, the national ID is
the single national identification system for all citizens and
resident aliens of the Republic of the Philippines. In short,
getting a national ID is free and doesn’t require any sort of
payment.
4. PhilHealth ID
*A Companion ID for your Health*
From sustaining a work-life balance, managing your bills,
and looking after your personal relationships, adulting is sure
a tough job. But above all, health should come first and your
top-most priority. PhilHealth is the government’s health
insurance program, and your PhilHealth ID is essential to avail
health insurance benefits such as discounted medical services in
accredited hospitals and medical expense coverage.
Just like UMID and your national ID, PhilHealth ID is also
valid for lifetime and costs free of charge to get one. All you
need to do is submit your duly filled PhilHealth Member
Registration Form (PMRF) along with required documents such as a
valid government-issued ID, proof of income, and 2pcs 1 x 1 ID
picture.
**Adulting Pro Tip:** Since PhilHealth is a lifetime ID,
make sure to get the digitized version of the card instead of
the physical, paper one so you can be sure of its durability and
longevity.
5. Driver’s License
*A Companion ID for Business and Employment*
When going to work, you only have two major options: drive
to the office or ride a public transport. While it’s therapeutic
to stare at the bus window during commute and ruminate about
life, sometimes skipping long queue lines in terminals is the
ideal thing to do. And you need a driver’s license before you
can start hitting the road.
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) issues 3 different
types: Student, Non-Professional and Professional which are
valid for 1 year, 3 years, and 5-10 years respectively. Some of
the requirements include a duly filled Driver’s License
Application form, original and photocopy of your birth
certificate, medical examination certificate, and theoretical
driving course certificate. Yes, you read that right, you need
to pass a short driving course to prove that you can safely
drive a car.
**Adulting Pro Trip:** Should you not have any violations
prior to your renewal, the LTO automatically renews your
driver's license with a 10-year validity.
6. TIN ID
*A Companion ID for Business and Employment*
The TIN ID or Tax Identification Number is a must-have for
employees. From opening a bank account, to sending money abroad,
this ID is essential for many business transactions and is your
proof that you are a registered taxpayer.
Good news: if you're applying as a new employee, your
company will be the one to process your TIN for you. Take note
that registration for a TIN is free, thus your company should
not charge you anything.
**Adulting Pro Tip:** You should only have one TIN number
in your lifetime. If you are previously employed, even if it was
part-time, your previous employer should have obtained a TIN on
your behalf. You need to secure that information and submit it
to your new employer.
Adulting doesn’t have to be biting. In fact, all you need to do
is familiarize yourself with the ins and outs in order to
successfully navigate the real world. From applying for a job,
opening a bank account, or applying for a loan or insurance,
like a product loan from Home Credit, starting with getting your
valid ID will make your adulting life easier and stress-free.
Remember, the sooner you secure these IDs, the better prepared
you’ll be for any transactions in the future!