Updated: August 2026
If you are applying for an NBI Clearance in the Philippines, one of the most important things to prepare is the correct identification documents.
The National Bureau of Investigation requires applicants to present two valid government-issued IDs during the clearance process.
Bringing the wrong ID, an expired ID, or documents that do not match your application details can delay your transaction.
This guide explains the NBI Clearance requirements in 2026, which IDs you can bring, what first-time job seekers need, and what to check before going to an NBI branch.
NBI Clearance Requirements in 2026
For a regular NBI Clearance application, prepare:
- Two valid government-issued IDs
- Your NBI Clearance reference number or QR code
- Proof of payment
- Your online application details
- Personal appearance at the NBI branch when required
The NBI’s current application guide tells applicants to bring their printed or digital reference number, proof of payment, and two valid government-issued IDs.
How Many IDs Do You Need for NBI Clearance?
You should bring:
Two Valid Government-Issued IDs
The NBI Citizen’s Charter officially lists two valid government-issued identification cards as the standard requirement for NBI Clearance processing.
It is a good idea to bring original IDs rather than relying only on photocopies.
Your IDs should also be:
- Valid
- Not expired
- Government-issued
- In good physical condition
- Showing information that matches your NBI application
Valid IDs for NBI Clearance
The NBI currently lists several government-issued IDs and documents that may be accepted for clearance applications.
Examples include:
- Philippine Passport
- Driver’s License
- National ID
- UMID
- Postal ID
- PhilHealth ID
- Voter’s ID or Certification of Registration
- PSA Birth Certificate
The NBI’s current application guide specifically gives Passport, Driver’s License, National ID, UMID, Postal ID, and PSA Birth Certificate as examples of acceptable identification documents.
The NBI Citizen’s Charter also lists IDs such as UMID, Passport, PhilHealth, and Voter’s ID or Certification of Registration among its recognized documents.
Because accepted documents and government ID policies can change, check the official NBI website before your appointment if you are unsure whether a particular ID will be accepted.
Can You Use a Philippine Passport?
Yes.
A valid Philippine Passport is one of the government-issued IDs recognized by the NBI.
If your passport is expired, bring another valid government-issued ID instead.
Can You Use a Driver’s License?
Yes.
A valid Driver’s License is included in the NBI’s current list of example identification documents.
Make sure the name and other personal details match the information entered in your NBI Clearance application.
Can You Use the Philippine National ID?
Yes.
The National ID is included in the NBI’s current guidance as an example of a valid government-issued identification document.
If you have another valid government-issued ID available, bring it as your second ID.
Can You Use UMID?
Yes.
UMID is included in both the NBI Citizen’s Charter and its current application guidance.
Can You Use a Postal ID?
The NBI’s current application guide lists Postal ID among the examples of government-issued IDs applicants may bring.
However, because the status and issuance of certain government IDs can change over time, make sure your Postal ID is still valid before relying on it.
Can You Use a PhilHealth ID?
PhilHealth is listed in the NBI Citizen’s Charter among recognized government-issued identification documents.
If possible, bring another strong government ID such as your Passport, Driver’s License, National ID, or UMID as your second identification document.
Can You Use a PSA Birth Certificate?
The NBI’s current application guide includes a PSA Birth Certificate among examples of documents that may be presented.
If you plan to use one, bring the original or official copy together with another acceptable government-issued identification document.
Do Your IDs Need to Match Your NBI Application?
Yes.
Your personal details should match the information entered in your online NBI Clearance application.
Before your appointment, check:
- Full name
- Middle name
- Suffix such as Jr., Sr., or III
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Address where applicable
- Spelling of your name
The NBI specifically advises applicants to make sure the information entered online matches their valid identification documents.
Can You Use an Expired ID?
It is safest not to.
The NBI’s current application guidance states that identification documents should be original and not expired.
Bring valid IDs to avoid delays or being asked to return with different documents.
What Else Should You Bring to the NBI Branch?
Aside from your two valid IDs, prepare:
NBI Reference Number
Your application generates a reference number or QR code.
Save it on your phone or print it before going to the branch.
The NBI accepts a printed or digital reference number as part of the application process.
Proof of Payment
Keep a screenshot or digital receipt showing that your payment was completed.
The NBI’s current guide advises applicants to bring proof of payment or their receipt.
Appointment Details
Keep your selected branch and schedule available on your phone.
This can make it easier to confirm your appointment when you arrive.
Requirements for First-Time Job Seekers
Qualified first-time job seekers can obtain an NBI Clearance free of charge under the First Time Jobseekers Assistance program.
First-time job seekers should use the dedicated NBI process rather than the regular application route.
The NBI lists requirements that include:
- Barangay Certification confirming first-time job seeker status
- Signed Oath of Undertaking
- Two valid IDs
The NBI Citizen’s Charter for first-time job seekers states that applicants must present documents and two valid IDs for biometric capture, and the clearance is processed free of charge.
Official First-Time Job Seeker portal:
https://firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph
Do First-Time Job Seekers Need to Pay?
Qualified first-time job seekers do not pay the regular NBI Clearance fee through the dedicated first-time job seeker process.
The NBI Citizen’s Charter lists the fee as None / Free of Charge for qualified applicants.
Make sure your Barangay Certification clearly confirms that you qualify as a first-time job seeker.
What If You Only Have One Valid ID?
Because the standard NBI requirement is two valid government-issued IDs, it is better not to attend your appointment with only one unless the NBI has specifically confirmed that another document you hold is acceptable.
If you are unsure, contact the NBI Clearance Center before traveling.
The NBI currently lists these clearance contact details:
- Landline: (02) 8524-1277
- Mobile: 0939 150 2880
- Email: nbiclearance@nbi.gov.ph
What If the Name on Your ID Is Different?
Differences in spelling, middle names, married names, or suffixes can cause complications.
Before submitting your online application:
- Check your IDs.
- Enter your full legal name carefully.
- Make sure your birth date is correct.
- Use the same spelling that appears on your government documents.
If your legal name has changed, bring supporting government documents that explain the change.
NBI Clearance Requirements Checklist
Before leaving for your NBI appointment, check that you have:
- Two valid government-issued IDs
- Original and unexpired identification documents
- NBI reference number or QR code
- Proof of payment
- Correct appointment details
- Personal information matching your IDs
First-time job seekers should additionally prepare their Barangay Certification and Oath of Undertaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many valid IDs are required for NBI Clearance?
The NBI requires two valid government-issued IDs for the standard clearance process.
Is a passport accepted for NBI Clearance?
Yes. Passport is included in the NBI’s recognized identification documents.
Is a Driver’s License accepted?
Yes. A valid Driver’s License is included in the NBI’s current application guidance.
Can I use my National ID?
Yes. The National ID is included among the current examples provided by the NBI.
Can I use an expired ID?
You should bring valid, non-expired IDs. The NBI’s current application guide states that identification documents should not be expired.
Is NBI Clearance free for first-time job seekers?
Qualified first-time job seekers can obtain their clearance free of charge through the dedicated NBI program.
Final Tip
Bring more than the minimum if you have several valid IDs available.
Even though the requirement is two IDs, having an additional government-issued ID in your bag can save you from making another trip if there is an issue with one of your documents.
Always check the official National Bureau of Investigation website before visiting a clearance center because government requirements and accepted documents may change.
Official NBI website: