How to Renew NBI Clearance Without Your Old NBI ID Number (Philippine Context)

Last updated based on generally applicable rules and practice as of mid-2024. Processes can change; the exact screens and fees you’ll see at checkout will control.

Executive Summary

You can get a fresh NBI Clearance even if you no longer know or have your old NBI Clearance/ID number. In most cases, you will simply apply as a “NEW” applicant in the NBI Clearance Online system, book an appointment, pay, and appear for biometrics and release. “Renewal” in NBI jargon just means you’re a returning applicant; it doesn’t require presenting your previous clearance number to receive a new certificate.

Legal & Administrative Basis (Why NBI Can Issue You a New Clearance)

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is authorized to maintain criminal identification records and issue clearances under the NBI Reorganization and Modernization Act (Republic Act No. 10867, which updated RA 157).
NBI processes involve personal data and biometrics and are covered by the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (RA 10173) and its rules. Your identity is re-established through government IDs and live biometrics—not by a prior clearance number.

Bottom line: the law doesn’t require you to recite an old clearance number to be re-cleared. The NBI’s job is to positively identify you again and search your name/biometrics against their database.

Key Terms You’ll See

NBI Clearance Number – The alphanumeric code printed on an issued clearance (used for verification). Losing this does not bar you from applying again.
Reference/Payment Code – The code you receive after choosing a payment channel. This is what you present at the cashier/partner and keep as proof of payment.
“Hit” – A possible name/biometric match found in NBI records. If you get a HIT, release may be delayed pending verification/quality control.

The Practical Paths (Choose One)

Path A — (Optional) Try to Recover Your Old Number

If you previously created an NBI Clearance Online account and still know the email/password:

Log in and check your transaction history; prior clearances and their numbers often appear there.
If you recover it, you may use the “Renew” flow. But: recovery is optional. If you can’t log in or nothing shows, use Path B.

Path B — Apply as NEW (Recommended if you don’t have the old number)

This is the straightforward, legally sound route and works for most people.

Step-by-Step Guide (Without Your Old Number)

Create/Access Your Online Account
- Go to the NBI Clearance Online portal and create an account using your active email and mobile number. If you already have an account but forgot details, you can create a fresh one; the system de-duplicates through biometrics later.
Start an Application → Choose “NEW”
- Since you don’t have your old number, do not choose “Renew” (which may ask for it). Select NEW.
- Encode your personal details exactly as they appear on your government ID(s) (full name, middle name, birthdate, birthplace, civil status, etc.). Consistency reduces “HIT”s.
Prepare Your IDs
- Bring at least one valid, government-issued, photo ID (many branches still advise two IDs). Commonly accepted: Passport, PhilID (PhilSys National ID), Driver’s License, UMID, PRC ID, GSIS/SSS ID, Postal ID, Voter’s ID.
- If any detail on your ID differs from your entry (e.g., married surname), bring the supporting PSA document (e.g., Marriage Certificate, court order, CENOMAR/CEMAR as applicable).
Book an Appointment (Branch, Date, Time)
- Pick a convenient NBI site, then choose a schedule. Many branches require online appointments (courtesy lanes may exist for seniors, PWDs, and pregnant women—bring proof).
Choose a Payment Channel & Pay
- The portal will show your total amount (base fee + service/partner charges).
- Typical channels include e-wallets, over-the-counter payment partners, and bank options.
- Important: Note or screenshot your reference/payment code. This is not the same as a clearance number.
Show Up for Biometrics & Photo
- Be on time. Wear appropriate attire (no headgear/tinted glasses unless for religious/medical reasons).
- Biometrics (fingerprints) and photo capture are required to link you uniquely to your record.
Wait for the Result
- No HIT: release is often same-day after printing/verification.
- With HIT: expect additional verification; release can be delayed (days to ~2 weeks, varies). If NBI requests documents (e.g., court disposition), comply promptly.
Claim & Check Your Clearance
- Inspect spelling and details before leaving.
- Clearances typically show a QR code or verification code. Keep both the printed clearance and your reference documents in case a verifier asks.

Frequently Encountered Situations (and How to Handle Them)

I forgot my old email or can’t access my old online account. Apply as NEW. Your live biometrics and IDs will link your identity to any prior records behind the scenes.
I changed my name (marriage/annulment/court order). Use your current legal name and bring the PSA-issued supporting document (e.g., Marriage Certificate, court order). If a verifier later questions the change, you’ll have the paper trail ready.
I had a previous case that was dismissed/acquitted. If you get a HIT, NBI may ask for disposition papers or certificate of finality. Bring the latest certified true copies to speed up verification.
I’m an OFW / using the clearance abroad. Many foreign recipients require apostille. After issuance, have your clearance apostilled by the DFA before submission overseas. Book the DFA appointment online and follow their requirements.
I’m a foreign national. Bring your passport and ACR I-Card (or the most current immigration document proving legal stay). Expect biometrics and possible verification.
I’m a senior citizen / PWD / pregnant. Many sites operate courtesy lanes; bring proof (e.g., senior/PWD ID, medical proof of pregnancy). Availability and hours can vary by site.
I lost my printed NBI clearance. Do I need the number to replace it? You’ll normally apply again (NEW or RENEW). If a particular employer requests proof of the old one, you can execute an Affidavit of Loss (template below) and pair it with your newly issued clearance.

Data Corrections & Disputes

Wrong Name/Birthdate/Gender/Nationality printed? Immediately request correction before printing. If already printed, you may need to file a correction and re-print; bring valid IDs that prove the correct data.
Biometric Mismatch (e.g., worn fingerprints): Inform the encoder; NBI may use alternative capture or manual verification.

Validity, Re-use, and Verification

Validity: NBI Clearances are commonly valid for 1 year from issuance (unless a recipient sets a shorter window). Once expired, you apply again—there is no “extension.”
Verification: Recipients often verify the clearance using the QR code / unique number printed on the certificate. Keep your printout clean and legible.

Fees & Timelines (What to Expect)

Fees: Expect a base government fee plus convenience/service charges from your chosen payment partner. The checkout screen amount controls; bring extra cash if paying over the counter.
Processing Time:
- On-site capture: typically 15–30 minutes excluding queues.
- No HIT: usually released the same day.
- With HIT: release can be delayed (commonly several business days to ~2 weeks), depending on verification.

Practical Tips to Avoid Delays

Match your IDs. Use the same full name sequence across IDs and online entries.
Bring originals (and photocopies, if you can) of IDs and any supporting PSA/court papers.
Keep screenshots/receipts of payment and appointment details.
Arrive early. Some branches have long queues, even with appointments.
Check spelling before printing; corrections after printing can mean re-queuing.

Simple Affidavit of Loss (Template)

AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS I, [Full Name], of legal age, Filipino, and a resident of [Address], after being duly sworn, depose and state:

That I was previously issued an NBI Clearance on or about [Date, if known];

That I have lost and can no longer locate the said clearance/its number despite diligent search;

That I am executing this Affidavit to attest to the loss and for whatever legal purpose it may serve. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this [Date] in [City/Municipality], Philippines. (Signature over Printed Name) SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this [Date], affiant exhibiting [ID Type & No.]. (Notary Public)

Note: An affidavit is not required by NBI just to apply again, but some employers or third parties ask for it if you’re replacing a lost copy.

Bottom Line

You do not need your old NBI Clearance/ID number to proceed.
Just apply as NEW, bring proper IDs, appear for biometrics, and claim your clearance.
Handle special cases (name change, prior cases, use abroad) by bringing the right supporting documents.

If you want, tell me your situation (e.g., name change, OFW, foreign national, prior case) and I’ll tailor the exact document checklist you should bring to your chosen branch.