Adulting 101: Tips on Applying for Government IDs

Andrea Louise Delos Santos & Catherine Martirez

Being an adult is a challenging phase in life because as we grow older, many responsibilities need to be taken care of. Adulting is a process because we have to work on developing ourselves for us to be more mindful of our actions. An adult is much more than just being 18. It is also essential for us to aspire for maturity because there will be plenty of decision making such as choosing our career or even our personal goals in life that depend solely on ourselves. To be self-dependent, young adults need to have a deeper understanding of themselves, their strengths and limitations, and the ideals they consider significant to them.

Usually, one responsibility of an adult is to apply for government IDs. In case you are wondering about planning to apply for valid IDs, here is the right article for you.

General Tips When Going to a Government Office/Applying for IDs:

• Search for an online application/registration.

Most government offices have websites where you can find forms that you have to fill out, the requirements you have to bring, and the instructions that you have to follow when you get to the office. There are even some government websites where you can upload your documents. So, before going to the offices, make sure to do your research first. 

• Double-check your documents.

Before leaving, double-check your documents to make sure you are not forgetting anything. Also, always bring at least (2) photocopies of each of the documents, IDs, or forms that you will pass as some of them will need to take your documents. This is a gentle reminder that it is always good to have a copy of your original copies. 

• Bring lots of patience. 

Government offices will be bombarded with people most of the time. Yes, even during this pandemic. Therefore, it is good to prepare yourself mentally and physically because there is a huge tendency that you might wait for hours. Although that being said, sometimes you might get lucky and not wait for a long time. But to be safe, make sure you wear comfortable clothes, bring snacks, a power bank, and maybe a book to pass time in case you end up waiting for hours. 

• Don’t wear colored contact lenses.

If they are taking your picture, they might ask you to remove it. So do not forget to wear eyeglasses or colorless contact lenses instead. 

Here are some of the Valid IDs that you can get started with:

1. Postal ID

If you don't have any valid ID like a driver's license, you might want to start with getting a Postal ID. It is the easiest valid ID to get as there is a rush option where you can get your ID the next day after you applied. If you are not in a rush, you can opt for the normal type wherein they will deliver the ID on your doorstep after a month or so after you applied.

For more details, here is PhilPost’s website: https://www.postalidph.com/ 

2. Comelec/Voter’s ID

We, as the youth, have the right and responsibility to vote for people who possess the following: integrity, empathy, and the capability to lead our nation. Now as the people of our nation, our goal is to elect leaders who can lead effectively through thick and thin, leaders who listen to the people, and most importantly, leaders whose only interest is for the betterment of our country. All of which we, as Filipinos, deserve. Therefore, if you are already 18 right now or 18 by the 2022 elections, you can register now to vote for the 2022 elections. 

It is also important to make sure you ask your local registration office if they will still be issuing a Voter's ID. This is due to the approval of the National ID System which will serve as an all-in-one ID.

Here is Comelec’s website: https://irehistro.comelec.gov.ph/cef1 

3. Driver’s License

If you are still driving around without a license (Yes, we see you.) You might want to get your driver’s license so you can freely roam around without worry. Getting your license might be a tedious process to you but so is settling a violation when you get caught driving without a license. Moreover, part of adulting is running your errands. If you have your license, it will be extremely convenient. 

For more details, here is LTO’s website: https://lto.gov.ph/license-and-permit 

4. Philippine Passport

A Philippine passport is important if you wish to travel overseas or even through domestic flights. However, this is not the only function of the passport, it is also valuable and a powerful proof of identity that can be used in both private and government transactions. Additionally, the Philippine passport has now a 10-year validity.  Although we can’t travel because of the pandemic, you can still apply for a passport through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website in case you will be needing this in the future. You can also have an appointment slot so it will be less hassle and to avoid delay.

For more details, here is DFA’s website: https://www.passport.gov.ph

These are just some of the few valid IDs that we can apply under the new normal. Valid IDs are “must-have items” because nowadays, private institutions normally require one valid id, but normally, it is essential to at least have 2 valid ids. 

Given the current situation, applying for an ID can be very difficult but we must always remember to still follow the quarantine restrictions. Bring a face mask, a face shield, and alcohol if you are going to government offices to apply for your IDs.  We must get valid IDs because they can help you to protect yourself from identity theft and ensure you have a safe transaction soon. At this point, you have now realized how important valid IDs are when you are entering the adulthood stage. We hope that this article helps if you wish to gather these IDs.