NBI Clearance Requirements 2026
Before you start your NBI clearance application, make sure you have the required IDs and other information ready. If you have everything prepared that can help you avoid problems during the application and branch visit.
For a standard application, the current NBI Citizen’s Charter lists two valid government-issued IDs. Your name, date of birth, and other personal details should also match the information on your IDs.
If you’re a first-time job seeker or renewing an older certificate, you may need to meet additional requirements. The sections below explain what you need for each situation.
What Do You Need for an NBI Clearance?
You must prepare these things before you start your application;
- Two valid government-issued IDs
- An active mobile number
- An active email address
- Your personal information and background details
- The information needed to complete your online application
Make sure your IDs are valid and the information you enter is correct. Your name, date of birth, and other personal details should match the information on your identification documents.
→ See the complete NBI Clearance application process
Accepted Valid IDs for NBI Clearance
You must provide valid government-issued identification documents when applying. Some accepted IDs include:
Other government-issued identification documents may also be accepted depending on the current NBI requirements.
Before your appointment, check that the IDs you plan to bring are valid and that the personal information on them matches your application.
→ See the full list of NBI Clearance valid IDs
Accepted Valid IDs for NBI Clearance
At the time when apply, you must have valid government-issued IDs. Some of the IDs currently accepted include:
- Philippine National ID / PhilSys ID
- Passport
- Driver’s License
- UMID
- Postal ID
Other government-issued IDs may also be accepted but it depends on the current requirements.
Before your appointment, make sure the IDs you plan to bring are valid and that the information on them matches your application.
→ See the Full List of Clearance Valid IDs
How Many IDs Do You Need?
For a standard application, you need two valid government-issued IDs according to the current National Bureau of Investigation Citizen’s Charter.
Bring the original IDs with you when you visit the clearance center.
If you’re not sure whether your ID is accepted, check the latest requirements before your appointment. This is better than relying on an old list from another website.
Your Information Must Match Your ID
Enter your information carefully when filling out your application. Pay special attention to:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Family information
- Education details
- Employment information
- Other details requested in the application
The National Bureau of Investigation advises applicants to check their information and make sure it matches their valid IDs before saving the form.
Even a small mistake can cause problems during verification, so review everything carefully before you continue your application.
What Should You Bring to Your Clearance Appointment?
After completing the online part of your application, your next step is to visit the selected clearance center.
Before heading to your appointment, keep these items with you:
- Your required original valid IDs
- Your transaction or Reference Number
- Your appointment details
- Payment confirmation or receipt, if applicable
At the branch, the National Bureau of Investigation will take your fingerprints, photo, and electronic signature to complete the in-person part of the application.
→ See the NBI Appointment Guide
Requirements for First-Time Job Seekers
Qualified first-time job seekers have a separate process under the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act (RA 11261).
The current Citizen’s Charter lists these requirements:
- Barangay Certification confirming first-time job seeker status
- Two valid government-issued IDs or acceptable certificates
First-time job seekers can also use a dedicated online facility.
Because this benefit has its own eligibility and document requirements, check the dedicated guide before starting a standard paid application.
→ NBI Clearance for First-Time Job Seekers
Requirements for Renewal
Renewal requirements can be different from those for a new application.
Several renewal options are available, including the newer eClearance service through the eGovPH Super App for eligible users. The service was introduced in July 2026 as a digital renewal option.
If you already have a previous clearance, check the renewal requirements before starting a new application.
What If Your Previous Clearance Was Issued Before 2014?
According to the current mailed-clearance guidance, certificates issued in 2014 or later may be renewed through the mailed-clearance process. Certificates issued before 2014 are treated as new applications under this process.
If your old certificate was issued before 2014, check the latest renewal instructions before starting your application.
Common Requirement Problems
My ID is expired. Can I use it?
Make sure the IDs you bring are valid and meet the current requirements. If one of your IDs has expired, use another acceptable government-issued ID if you have one.
The information on my ID is different from my application.
Check your Applicant Information before completing the application. Make sure your name, date of birth, and other details match your valid ID.
I only have one valid ID.
The current Citizen’s Charter lists two valid government-issued IDs for standard processing. If you only have one, check whether you have another accepted ID before continuing.
Can I use a special document instead of a government-issued ID?
This depends on your type of application. For example, first-time job seekers have specific requirements that may include acceptable certificates along with their IDs.
Don’t assume that a document accepted for one service will also be accepted for every type of application.
Quick Requirements Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
For special situations, also check the requirements for:
- First-time job seekers
- Renewal applicants
- Older certificates
- Applications made from abroad
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Official NBI Clearance Portal
