Choosing the right identification documents is one of the most important parts of preparing for an NBI Clearance application. The National Bureau of Investigation currently requires applicants for the standard NBI Clearance service to present two valid government-issued identification cards.
The IDs are used to verify the applicant’s identity and ensure that the personal information submitted during the application matches the documents presented at the NBI branch.
This guide explains the valid IDs for NBI Clearance, which documents are listed by the NBI, what applicants should bring to their appointment, and what to do if they do not have the usual government IDs.
Important: This is an independent informational guide and is not the official website of the National Bureau of Investigation. Requirements and accepted documents can change. Always verify the latest requirements with the official NBI website before your appointment.
How Many IDs Do You Need for NBI Clearance?
For a standard NBI Clearance application, the current NBI Citizen’s Charter states that applicants need two valid identification cards issued by the government.
The NBI’s current application instructions also tell applicants to bring two valid government-issued IDs and give examples such as a passport, driver’s license, National ID, UMID, Postal ID, or PSA Birth Certificate. The instructions state that the IDs should be original and not expired.
Therefore, applicants should prepare two acceptable documents before going to their scheduled NBI branch.
List of Valid IDs for NBI Clearance
The NBI’s current application instructions identify several documents that can be used for identity verification.
Common examples include:
- Philippine Passport
- Driver’s License
- National ID
- UMID
- Postal ID
- PSA Birth Certificate
- Other government-issued identification documents accepted by the NBI
The NBI’s official application guide provides examples of acceptable identification documents, while its Citizen’s Charter establishes the requirement for two valid government-issued IDs.
Because the accepted-document list can be updated, applicants should check the latest NBI instructions rather than relying on an old social-media post or outdated blog article.
Philippine Passport
A Philippine passport is one of the identification documents listed in the NBI’s current application instructions.
A passport can be particularly useful because it contains identifying information and a photograph that can be used for identity verification.
If you plan to use your passport:
- Make sure it is valid
- Bring the original document
- Check that your personal information matches your NBI application
- Bring a second acceptable government-issued ID
Driver’s License
A valid LTO Driver’s License is another commonly used identification document for NBI Clearance.
The NBI’s current online application instructions specifically list a Driver’s License among examples of acceptable government-issued IDs.
Before your appointment, check that:
- Your driver’s license is valid
- Your name matches your NBI application
- Your photograph is clearly identifiable
- You have another acceptable ID
National ID
The National ID is also included among the examples in the NBI’s current application instructions.
Applicants using the National ID should ensure that their identifying information corresponds with the information entered in the NBI application.
If you are using the National ID as one of your two documents, prepare another acceptable identification document as well.
UMID
UMID is another government-issued identification document listed in the NBI’s application guidance.
Applicants who have a valid UMID may use it as one of their identification documents, subject to the NBI’s current requirements.
Postal ID
The Postal ID is also listed among the examples of acceptable identification documents in the NBI’s current application instructions.
If you intend to use a Postal ID, make sure it satisfies the NBI’s current validity and identification requirements.
PSA Birth Certificate
The NBI’s current application instructions also include a PSA Birth Certificate among the examples of identification documents.
A birth certificate is different from a photo ID, so applicants should carefully follow the NBI’s current instructions regarding acceptable combinations of identification documents.
If you plan to use a PSA Birth Certificate, verify the latest requirements before your appointment.
School ID for Students
Students may have fewer government-issued identification documents than working adults.
The NBI’s published Citizen’s Charter has historically included a School ID together with a current registration card among its listed identification documents.
However, because requirements can change, students should verify the current NBI requirements before relying on a school ID.
If you are a student, prepare:
- School ID
- Current registration or enrollment document where required
- Another acceptable identification document if available
Can You Use an Expired ID for NBI Clearance?
Applicants should not rely on an expired ID for their NBI Clearance appointment.
The NBI’s current online application instructions specifically state that the two government-issued IDs should be original and not expired.
If one of your IDs has expired, use another currently valid identification document instead.
This is particularly important because applicants may travel to an NBI branch only to discover that their identification documents do not satisfy the current requirements.
Do You Need the Original ID?
Yes. The NBI’s current application instructions state that applicants should bring original government-issued IDs.
Do not assume that a photograph, screenshot, photocopy, or scanned copy will automatically be accepted in place of the original document.
Before leaving for your appointment, check that you have the actual identification documents you selected during your application.
Can Two IDs Be From the Same Government Agency?
The important requirement is that the documents satisfy the NBI’s current identification requirements.
Rather than assuming that any two cards will automatically qualify, check whether both documents are currently accepted by the NBI.
For example, applicants should not choose IDs solely because they contain their photograph. The NBI requires valid government-issued identification documents for the standard clearance process.
What If You Only Have One Valid ID?
If you only have one valid ID, do not assume that the application will proceed normally.
The current NBI Citizen’s Charter states that the standard service requires two valid government-issued identification cards.
Instead, check the NBI’s current list of accepted documents and determine whether another document you already possess can satisfy the requirement.
You can also contact the NBI Clearance Center before your appointment if you are uncertain about your documents.
The NBI publishes its clearance contact information on its official website, including the clearance inquiry email and telephone numbers.
What If You Have No Valid Government ID?
Not having the most common IDs does not necessarily mean that you have no options.
The NBI’s published identification guidance includes several different government-issued documents and certificates.
Your best approach is to determine which currently accepted document you can obtain and verify the NBI’s requirements before scheduling or attending your appointment.
Avoid relying on an old list from another website because government identification systems and NBI procedures can change.
Valid IDs for First-Time Job Seekers
First-time job seekers have a separate NBI Clearance process.
The NBI’s current Citizen’s Charter for First Time Job Seekers states that applicants proceed through the First Time Job Seeker process and present the required certificate together with two valid IDs for biometric capture.
The NBI also identifies the First Time Job Seeker service as free of charge under its published procedure.
Therefore, being a first-time job seeker does not mean that you can simply arrive without identification documents.
You should still prepare the required IDs and supporting documents.
Internal link: NBI Clearance for First-Time Job Seekers
Valid IDs for NBI Clearance Renewal
Renewal can involve a different process from a new application.
The NBI has continued expanding its digital services. In July 2026, the agency announced that NBI eClearance was integrated into the eGovPH Super App, providing eligible users with a digital renewal option.
Because digital renewal procedures can differ from a standard new application, applicants should check the current instructions before assuming that the same documents and branch process apply.
Internal link: NBI Clearance Renewal
Valid IDs for Filipinos Applying Abroad
Applicants outside the Philippines have a separate NBI clearance procedure.
The NBI’s official overseas instructions explain that applicants can obtain the relevant form and have their fingerprints taken through a Philippine Embassy, Consular Office, or appropriate authority. The procedure also includes a photocopy of the biodata page of a valid passport and a recent photograph.
This means applicants abroad should not simply follow the standard Philippine branch appointment process.
Internal link: NBI Clearance for Filipinos Abroad
What to Bring to Your NBI Appointment
Your identification documents are only part of your appointment preparation.
The NBI’s current application guide says applicants should bring:
- Printed or digital NBI Reference Number or QR code
- Proof of payment or receipt
- Two original, valid government-issued IDs
- Additional first-time job seeker documents where applicable
A simple checklist can help prevent unnecessary delays.
NBI Appointment Checklist
☐ Two valid government-issued IDs
☐ Original IDs
☐ IDs are not expired
☐ Personal information matches your application
☐ NBI Reference Number or QR code
☐ Proof of payment, if applicable
☐ Additional documents for special applicant categories
Why Your ID Information Must Match Your NBI Application
Your identification documents are used to establish your identity during the NBI Clearance process.
For this reason, carefully review the information you enter during online registration.
Check:
- First name
- Middle name
- Last name
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Other personal information
A difference between your application and identification documents can create additional verification issues.
What Happens at the NBI Branch?
After arriving at the appropriate NBI branch, applicants proceed through the applicable processing steps.
The NBI’s Citizen’s Charter describes biometric processing that includes:
- Photograph capture
- Fingerprint capture
- Signature capture
- Verification
- Clearance processing and issuance
The exact process can depend on the applicant’s situation and whether the application receives a HIT requiring additional verification.
You can use the NBI’s official Clearance Office Locator to identify an NBI clearance office.
What If Your NBI Application Gets a HIT?
A HIT can result in additional verification.
It is important not to assume that a HIT automatically means that you have a criminal record.
The NBI’s clearance procedure provides for additional verification where a HIT occurs.
The applicant may be instructed to return on a specified date or undergo further verification depending on the circumstances.
Internal link: What Does HIT Mean in NBI Clearance?
Frequently Asked Questions About Valid IDs for NBI Clearance
How many IDs are required for NBI Clearance?
The NBI’s current Citizen’s Charter states that the standard NBI Clearance application requires two valid government-issued identification cards.
What are the valid IDs for NBI Clearance?
The NBI’s current application instructions provide examples including a Philippine passport, Driver’s License, National ID, UMID, Postal ID, and PSA Birth Certificate.
Can I use my passport for NBI Clearance?
Yes. A Philippine passport is listed among the examples of acceptable government-issued IDs in the NBI’s current application guide.
Can I use my driver’s license?
Yes. The NBI’s current application instructions list a Driver’s License as an example of an acceptable government-issued ID.
Can I use my National ID?
The National ID is listed among the examples in the NBI’s current application instructions.
Can I use a PSA Birth Certificate?
The PSA Birth Certificate is included among the examples in the NBI’s current application guidance.
Can I use an expired ID?
The NBI’s current application instructions state that the IDs should be original and not expired.
Do I need two IDs if I am a first-time job seeker?
Yes. The NBI’s current First Time Job Seeker procedure includes presenting the required certificate together with two valid IDs for biometric processing.
What if I am outside the Philippines?
The NBI has a separate procedure for applicants applying from abroad, including fingerprinting through an appropriate Philippine diplomatic or authorized office and additional documentation.
Final Checklist: Choosing Your NBI Valid IDs
Before your appointment, confirm:
Your IDs
- You have two acceptable government-issued documents
- Both are valid
- Neither is expired
- You have the original documents
- Your personal information matches your NBI application
Your application
- Your reference number is available
- Your appointment details are saved
- Your payment information is available when applicable
Special circumstances
- First-time job seeker → prepare the required Barangay Certificate and other documents
- Applicant abroad → follow the NBI’s overseas procedure
- Renewal applicant → check the current renewal process
If you are unsure whether your documents qualify, check the latest information directly from the National Bureau of Investigation before travelling to an NBI office.