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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!