What is a Postal ID?
A Postal ID in the Philippines is a government-issued identification card that serves as a valid proof of identity and address. It is issued by the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) and is commonly used for various transactions and official purposes within the country.
The Postal ID aims to provide a convenient and accessible identification option for individuals who may not have other primary government-issued IDs, such as a driver's license or passport.
The Postal ID includes the holder's name, photograph, signature, birthdate, and address. It is recognized by various government agencies, banks, private institutions, and other entities as a valid form of identification. The inclusion of the holder's address on the ID makes it useful for transactions that require proof of residence, such as opening bank accounts, applying for utility services, and more.
The application process for a Postal ID typically involves submitting required documents, undergoing biometrics (photo, fingerprints, and signature capture), and paying the necessary fees. Once the application is processed and approved, the Postal ID is issued to the applicant.
RELATED GUIDE: Where to Apply or Renew a Postal ID in Metro Manila
Where Can I Use the Philippine Postal ID?
As per the Universal Postal Union, the postal ID card stands as the universally recognized identification document for postal transactions worldwide.
In its origins within the Philippines, the postal ID was initially instituted to ensure the accurate delivery of letters and packages. Postal workers relied on this ID to authenticate the identity and address of recipients.
The acquisition of a postal ID has evolved beyond its primary purpose and now extends to a range of applications, which include:
- Serving as valid proof of identity for government-related transactions.
- Facilitating the application process for other government-issued IDs, including the Philippine passport, police clearance, and NBI clearance.
- Enabling access to benefits from institutions like SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and various other government services.
- Providing a means to send or receive money through remittance centers.
- Serving as an acceptable form of identification when initiating activities like opening a bank account, applying for credit cards, personal loans, and other banking products.
- Verifying e-wallet accounts for digital transactions.
- Participating in the Postal ID Privilege Program, akin to the Pag-IBIG Loyalty card, which offers discounts, freebies, and privileges from a wide array of businesses across the Philippines.
Philippine Postal ID Validity
The validity period of the Postal ID is three years for Filipinos and foreign residents holding a Special Retiree's Resident Visa (SRRV). Conversely, for other foreigners residing in the Philippines, the expiration date of the Postal ID is one year.
How to Apply for a Postal ID
Getting a Postal ID in the Philippines involves several steps. Here's a guide to help you through the process:
Loading...
1. Prepare the Required Documents
Gather the necessary documents, including a filled-out application form, proof of identity and citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport), and proof of address (utility bills, barangay clearance, etc.).
2. Download and Fill Out the Application Form
Obtain the application form from the official website of the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) or your local post office. Fill out the form with accurate information.
3. Get Your Documents Validated
Bring your filled-out application form and supporting documents to the nearest post office for validation. They will review your documents and confirm their authenticity.
4. Pay the Required Fees
Pay the necessary fees, which may vary depending on whether you're applying for a new Postal ID or renewing an existing one. Fees can be paid at designated post office branches.
5. Undergo Biometrics and Photo Capture
After paying the fees, proceed to the designated biometrics and photo capture area within the post office. Your photo, fingerprints, and signature will be taken for the ID.
6. Wait for Processing
Your application will undergo processing, including verification of the information you provided. This may take some time, so be patient during this stage.
7. Receive Your Postal ID:
Once your Postal ID is ready, you will be notified by the post office. You can then return to the post office to pick up your ID. Bring a valid ID for identification when claiming your Postal ID.
8. Verify Your Information:
Upon receiving your Postal ID, review the information on it to ensure accuracy. If you notice any errors, inform the post office immediately for necessary corrections.
It's important to note that the Postal ID is a valid government-issued ID that can be used for various transactions. The process and requirements might change over time, so it's advisable to check the official website of the Philippine Postal Corporation or visit your local post office for the most up-to-date information before proceeding with your application.
ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA
Philippine Postal ID FAQs
1. Is the postal ID a valid ID?
Yes, the postal ID is honored as a valid government-issued ID in different transactions with government and financial institutions, as long as it's within the ID card's validity period.
2. What is the validity of the postal ID?
The postal ID is valid for three years for Filipinos and foreign residents with Special Retiree’s Resident Visa (SRRV). On the other hand, the postal ID expiration date is one year for the rest of the foreigners in the Philippines.
3. How to get a postal ID online?
You might be wondering how to get or apply for a postal ID online. Currently, there's no postal ID online registration and application facility yet. The procedure is done on-site, as you need to be personally present to have your picture, fingerprints, and signature taken.
Nonetheless, the postal ID application is an easy and convenient process, as long as your requirements are correct and complete.
4. How many days does it take to get my postal ID?
- Metro Manila - 15 working days
- Other cities and provinces outside Metro Manila - 20 working days
- Remote provinces and islands - 30 working days
After completing your application, expect your new ID within 15 working days if you live in Metro Manila. In the provinces, ID delivery takes about 20 working days. Those living in remote barangays and island provinces in the Philippines can expect their new ID within 30 working days.
5. How much is the postal ID fee?
- First-time application - ₱504
- Renewal application - ₱504
- Rush application - ₱650
The total postal ID price, whether for first-time or renewal applications, is ₱504 (₱450 postal ID card and delivery fee + ₱54 for 12% VAT). If you need this ID card immediately, the rush postal ID application fee is ₱650.
6. How to track my postal ID application status?
To verify your postal ID status, simply go to the PHLPost Tracking website (tracking.phlpost.gov.ph) and enter the tracking number given to you. Follow my complete guide to Tracking Your Postal ID
If that doesn't work, or you don't have a tracking number, you may contact the PHLPost customer service hotline at (02) 8288-7678 (available Mondays to Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or send an email to phlpostcares@phlpost.gov.ph or the Postal ID Facebook page to follow up on your postal ID delivery status.
Tip: If you also applied for the national ID or Phil ID and haven't received it yet, you may also track its status on the PHLPost Tracking site.
List of Valid IDs in the Philippines (Primary)
- Philippine Passport from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
- Driver’s License (student, non-professional, and professional) from Land Transportation Office (LTO)
- National ID (PhilID) from Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
- GSIS or SSS-issued Unified Multi-purpose Identification Card (UMID)
- PhilHealth ID (digitized PVC)
- Digitized Postal ID from Philippine Postal Corporation or PHLPost
- Voter’s ID or Voter's Certificate from Commission on Election (COMELEC)
- NBI Clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation
- Senior Citizen ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)
- OWWA ID from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
- Persons with Disabilities (PWD) ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)
See full list of Valid IDs in the Philippines
No comments
Let us know your thoughts!