In the Philippines, the practice of a profession is not a natural right but a privilege granted by the State, subject to its police power. Central to this regulation is the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the agency mandated to oversee the licensing and regulation of professionals. A vital component of this oversight is the periodic renewal of the Professional Identification Card (PIC).
Under Republic Act No. 8981, otherwise known as the "PRC Modernization Act of 2000," and in compliance with the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Act of 2016 (Republic Act No. 10912), professionals are required to renew their licenses every three (3) years.
I. Essential Requirements for Renewal
To ensure a seamless renewal process, the following documents and prerequisites must be satisfied:
- Online Appointment: A printed copy of the "Petition for Renewal" form generated through the PRC’s LERIS (Licensing Online Query System).
- Proof of CPD Compliance: Generally, professionals must earn a specific number of CPD credit units.
- Note: Pursuant to PRC Resolution No. 2019-1146, professionals may currently sign an Undertaking to complete lacking units during the next renewal cycle, though this is subject to periodic policy updates.
- Specific Requirements for Certain Professions:
- Nursing: Submission of a valid PNA membership if required by the Board.
- Accountancy: Proof of valid membership in the Accredited Integrated Professional Organization (AIPO).
- Engineering/Architecture: Requirements for professional seals or AIPO certifications as dictated by their respective Regulatory Boards.
- Identification: One (1) passport-sized picture with a white background and a full name tag.
II. The Step-by-Step Renewal Process
The PRC has transitioned to a "zero-contact" policy for the initial stages of application through its online portal.
Step 1: Online Registration and Appointment
Access the PRC LERIS portal. If you do not have an account, you must register with a valid email address and your personal details. Once logged in, select "Renewal" and choose your preferred PRC Regional Office or Service Center and your desired appointment date/time.
Step 2: Selection of Payment Method
After securing a slot, the system will prompt you to pay the renewal fee. Integrated payment options usually include:
- LandBank (Link.BizPortal)
- Over-the-counter (7-Eleven, Bayad Center)
- Online Wallets (GCash, Maya)
- Credit/Debit Cards
Step 3: Printing of Application Form
Once payment is confirmed, go to "Existing Transactions" in your LERIS account and print the Application for Professional Identification Card.
Step 4: Personal Appearance and Submission
On your scheduled date, visit the chosen PRC branch. Present your printed application form and the old PIC (if available). Most offices now offer "Same-Day Issuance," allowing you to receive your new ID within hours of submission.
III. Fee Structure and Penalties
The fees for renewal are standardized across professions, though they vary based on the educational attainment required for the license.
| Category | Renewal Fee (3 Years) | Surcharge (Late Renewal) |
|---|---|---|
| Baccalaureate Degree | ₱450.00 | ₱30.00 |
| Non-Baccalaureate | ₱420.00 | ₱20.00 |
Legal Note on Delinquency: Failure to renew within the birth month of the expiry year shall incur a surcharge. If the license has expired for more than one renewal cycle (3+ years), the professional may be required to pay "Back-fees" for the years the license was delinquent.
IV. The Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Requirement
The CPD Act of 2016 remains the most significant legal development in license renewal. It mandates that professionals undergo continuous learning through seminars, workshops, or postgraduate studies.
- Minimum Units: While originally set at 45 units, recent resolutions have lowered this requirement for many professions (often to 15 units) or allowed for an Affidavit of Undertaking due to the lingering effects of the pandemic and the transition period of the law.
- Exemptions: Professionals working overseas (OFWs) may apply for an exemption or a lower credit requirement, provided they present proof of their overseas employment.
V. Summary of Rights and Obligations
The Professional Identification Card is the primary evidence of a person's legal authority to practice their profession in the Philippines. Carrying an expired PIC not only invites administrative penalties from the PRC but can also lead to criminal liability for "Illegal Practice" under the specific Regulatory Laws of each profession.
By adhering to the LERIS process and maintaining CPD compliance, professionals ensure their standing within the Integrated Professional Organization and their eligibility for career advancement and legal protection.
Would you like me to draft a sample Affidavit of Undertaking for CPD compliance or perhaps a guide on how to register for a new LERIS account?