Postal ID Guide: Requirements and Application Process

After a temporary pause in 2023, PHLPost recently resumed accepting applications for Postal IDs. This is welcome news for countless Filipinos who rely on this essential government-issued identification card for a wide range of activities.

Originally designed to verify the identity of letter and parcel recipients, the Postal ID has evolved to become a primary form of identification accepted by numerous government agencies and private institutions. Its convenience and accessibility have made it a popular choice for Filipinos, including foreign residents.

Applying for a Postal ID is a straightforward process. Unlike other government and private institutions, PHLPost does not require appointments. Simply visit a participating Post Office, submit your application, have your photo and biometrics taken, and wait for your ID to arrive. Even foreign residents can obtain a Postal ID with the right documentation.

In this blog, we will take a deep dive into the step-by-step proves of obtaining a Postal ID, including the necessary documents and procedures. We will also address some common questions and provide valuable insights to help you navigate the application process with ease.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Postal ID?
2. How do I get a Postal ID?
3. What are the requirements to get a Postal ID?
4. How much is the Postal ID fee?
5. What should I do if I lose my Postal ID?
6. How can I renew my Postal ID?

What is a Postal ID?

A Postal ID is an identification card issued by the PHLPost and used as reference for a person’s identity and address. Details that are critical in the proper, timely, and accurate delivery of letters, bills, parcels, and other items sent through the post office. It is non-transferable and is valid for three years from the date of issuance.

How do I get a Postal ID?

The application process is simple and easy to follow. The applicant need not make an appointment or make prior arrangements. Simply submit a duly accomplished copy of the Postal ID application form along with the required IDs and proof of address to a Post Office near you. After your application is processed, your Postal ID will be delivered to you in a few days.

What are the requirements to get a Postal ID?

1. Fill out and submit an application form, along with the complete supporting IDs, documents, and proof of address to any post office. You may download the form from the PHLPost website or get one at the post office.

   Here are the IDs and Proofs of Address accepted by the PHLPost, as published on their Facebook page:

   1. Proof of Identity – Bring the original copy and one photocopy of ANY ONE of the following:

      1. National ID
      2. National ID (digitized or paper)
      3. Birth Certificate from PSA or Local Civil Registry with receipt ISSUED WITHIN 6 MONTHS
      4. GSIS UMID Card
      5. SSS UMID Card
      6. Driver’s License
      7. Passport
      8. PSA Marriage Certificate for married women (only if documents and IDs submitted do not bear married name)

   2. Proof of Address – Bring the original copy and one photocopy of ANY ONE of the following:

      1. Barangay Certificate of Residency issued within three months prior to Postal ID application
      2. Barangay Residence ID
      3. Certified True Copy of Lease
      4. Certified True Copy of Titles issued by the Land Registration Authority (LRA)
      5. Certified True Copy of Real Estate Tax Receipt
      6. Bank Statement
      7. Credit Card Statement
      8. School Billing Statement
      9. Utility Bill (cable, electric, internet, landline, water, etc.)
2. Application Review and ID Capture: The Post Office staff will examine your application and supporting documents. If everything is in order, your application will be accepted, and you will be given payment instructions. After paying, proceed to the nearest ID capture station. Please note that the ID capture station might be located outside the Post Office. At the station, your photo and fingerprints will be taken.
3. Postal ID Delivery: Your Postal ID will be delivered in approximately 10 to 15 working days if the application was received within Metro Manila. Provincial applications take approximately 4 to 5 weeks.

How much is the Postal ID fee?

The fee for a Postal ID is Php 550 but if you with to have yours rushed or expedited, the fee is Php 650.

What should I do if I lose my Postal ID?

To replace a lost Postal ID, prepare the following and bring it to the nearest Post Office:

1. Duly accomplished Postal ID application form
2. Duly notarized Affidavit of Loss
3. Proof of Identity (any one of the IDs mentioned above)
4. Proof of Address (any one of the IDs mentioned above)

The Post Office will inform you of the next steps and fees for replacing your lost ID.

How can I renew my Postal ID?

The Postal ID is valid for three years and can be renewed by the owner after. To renew your Postal ID, follow these steps:

1. If you are only renewing your expired Postal ID without changing any of your personal information on file or on the ID:

   1. Bring two duly accomplished copies of the Postal ID application form
   2. Original and photocopy of the expired Postal ID

2. If you are renewing your expired Postal ID and would like to apply some changes on your personal information:

   1. Bring two duly accomplished copies of the Postal ID application form
   2. Original and photocopy of the expired Postal ID
   3. Additional documents to support the change in personal information (PSA marriage certificate if changing from maiden last name to married last name, Annotated PSA birth certificate for change in name or spelling of name, etc.)

Submit the above documents to the nearest Post Office and follow the instructions of the Post Office staff to get your Postal ID renewed.

The Postal ID is a valuable government-issued identification card. Safeguard it diligently by storing it in a secure location and avoiding sharing it with others. Promptly report any loss or theft to the nearest Post Office and initiate the replacement process.

Always prioritize security and avoid dealing with intermediaries or fixers when applying for or renewing your Postal ID.

When applying for a Postal ID, consider ordering copies of your PSA birth certificate and PSA marriage certificate (if applicable) in advance. You may order online and have your documents delivered to you – just visit www.PSAHelpline.ph. Note that the PHLPost requires that the PSA certificates to be submitted for Postal ID application and renewal must not be more than six months old, that is why it is best to secure copies in advance and only from legitimate sources like PSAHelpline.ph.

Did you know that you can order your PSA certificates online and have these delivered to you? Just visit www.PSAHelpline.ph, an online channel recognized by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to handle online ordering and delivery of PSA certificates nationwide.