Quick Answer
Before your NBI Clearance appointment, you need a valid government-issued ID, your online application reference number, proof of payment, and your appointment confirmation. Some applicants also need supporting documents, like a guardian’s ID for minors or a marriage certificate for a name change. Preparing everything the night before, not the morning of, is the easiest way to avoid delays.
Before You Apply Online
- A valid government-issued ID. Check that it isn’t expired and shows your photo, name, signature, and birth date. See our Valid IDs for NBI Clearance Online guide for the full accepted list.
- Your basic personal details ready, including full legal name, birth date, address, and contact information, exactly as they appear on your ID.
- An active email address, since your account and confirmations are usually tied to it.
- A stable internet connection, especially during peak hours when the portal can slow down.
After Booking Your Appointment
- Your application reference number. Save this immediately after booking.
- Proof of payment. Keep your payment confirmation from GCash, Maya, bank, or 7-Eleven until after you’ve claimed your clearance. See our NBI Clearance Fee guide for payment options and amounts.
- Your appointment confirmation, including the branch, date, and time.
- A backup ID, if you have one, in case your primary ID has an issue at the branch.
The Night Before Your Appointment
- Recheck your appointment date, time, and branch location.
- Lay out your ID and printed or saved digital confirmation together.
- Confirm your payment reflects correctly on your account, if possible.
- Plan your route to the branch, including travel time and parking or transport options.
Morning of Your Appointment
- Bring your original valid ID. Screenshots or photocopies alone aren’t accepted.
- Bring your reference number and payment confirmation, either printed or easily accessible on your phone.
- Arrive early, since branches can get crowded, especially during peak seasons like school breaks or hiring periods.
- Dress appropriately for your biometrics photo. Avoid all-white tops, since some branches use a white background for ID photos.
- Wear a plain expression for your photo, without glasses or accessories that obscure your face, if the branch follows standard biometric photo rules.
Special Situations Checklist
If you’re a minor (15–17 years old):
- Bring your birth certificate.
- Bring a valid ID of your parent or guardian.
- Have your guardian accompany you to the appointment, if required by the branch.
If you’re a first-time jobseeker (RA 11261):
- Confirm your eligibility for the free clearance ahead of time.
- Bring proof of residency or other documents your branch may require to confirm eligibility.
If you’re resolving a HIT:
- Bring any supporting documents you already have, such as a court clearance or affidavit.
- Review our HIT status guide so you know what to expect.
If you changed your name (marriage or legal name change):
- Bring your PSA Marriage Certificate or relevant legal document.
- Make sure your online application matches your current legal name, or be ready to explain any mismatch.
If you’re applying for use abroad:
- Confirm requirements directly with the embassy or consulate handling your application.
- See our NBI Clearance for abroad use guide for the apostille process and related steps.
Quick Checklist Summary
| Item | Needed For |
|---|---|
| Valid government ID | All applicants |
| Reference number | All applicants |
| Proof of payment | All applicants (unless RA 11261-exempt) |
| Backup ID | Recommended for all applicants |
| Guardian’s ID and birth certificate | Minors (15–17) |
| Supporting documents (court clearance, affidavit) | Applicants resolving a HIT |
| PSA Marriage Certificate | Applicants with a legal name change |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to bring the original ID and relying only on a photo of it
- Losing the reference number and having to search for it at the branch
- Not confirming payment before arriving, then getting delayed at the counter
- Wearing an all-white top to a branch that uses a white photo background
- Assuming a HIT status means you shouldn’t show up to your appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring a printed copy of my appointment confirmation? Many branches accept a digital copy on your phone, but bringing a printed copy as backup is a safe habit in case of connectivity issues at the branch.
What if I forget my reference number? Check your email or the confirmation message from your payment channel. If you truly can’t find it, ask branch staff, since they may be able to look up your application using your ID details.
Can I bring a photocopy of my ID instead of the original? No. Branches require the original ID for verification. Some also ask for a photocopy in addition to the original, so bringing both is a good idea.
Is a digital photo required before my appointment? For most standard in-person appointments, no. Your photo is captured on-site during biometrics. Some delivery-based renewal options may ask for an uploaded photo, so check your specific application type.
What should minors bring that adults don’t need? Minors need a guardian’s valid ID and their own birth certificate, and a guardian typically needs to accompany them to the appointment.
Final Tips
- Prepare your documents the night before, not the morning of your appointment.
- Double-check your ID against our Valid IDs for NBI Clearance Online guide before you leave the house.
- Keep your reference number and payment confirmation together in one place.
- If your situation is unusual, like a name change or a HIT, prepare supporting documents in advance rather than at the last minute.
For more on what happens next, see our guides on NBI Clearance Appointment, NBI Clearance Status, and NBI Clearance Requirements.
This guide is independently written for informational purposes and is not affiliated with the National Bureau of Investigation. Requirements can vary slightly by branch — always confirm current details at clearance.nbi.gov.ph before your appointment. Last reviewed: 2026.
