When you go through the NBI Clearance process, you’ll encounter two important but very different numbers: the Reference Number and the NBI ID Number.
It’s easy to get them mixed up, but understanding their unique purposes is key to a smooth application and easy future renewals. This guide will clearly explain what each one is for so you never confuse them again.
What is the NBI ID Number?
The NBI ID Number is your permanent and unique identification number assigned to you by the NBI.
- Where to Find It: It is printed directly on your official, physical NBI Clearance certificate, usually located on the top-right portion of the document.
- Its Purpose: Think of it as your NBI “account number.” It stays with you for life and is used by the NBI to identify your official, permanent record in their national database.
What is the NBI Reference Number?
The NBI Reference Number is a temporary code generated for a single, specific transaction.
- Where to Find It: It is generated and displayed on the screen of the NBI online portal after you book an appointment. It can also be found in the “Transactions” menu of your NBI account.
- Its Purpose: Think of it as your “ticket” or “order number” for one application. Its only jobs are to link your payment to your application and to serve as your identifier on your appointment day. Once you have received your clearance, this number is no longer useful.
For a more detailed explanation, see our guide on What is an NBI Reference Number and How to Find It.
The Key Differences: A Quick Comparison Table
Here is a simple table to show the main differences at a glance:
| Feature | NBI ID Number | Reference Number |
| Purpose | Permanent record identifier | Temporary transaction code |
| Where to Find It | Printed on your NBI certificate | On the NBI portal during booking |
| When to Use It | For future renewals (Quick Renewal), verification | For paying the fee, at your appointment |
| Validity | Permanent (links to your record) | Temporary (expires after the transaction) |
Why Your NBI ID Number is So Important
While the Reference Number is only useful for a few days, your NBI ID Number is valuable for years to come. Here’s why you should always keep a copy of it:
- For Easy Renewals: This is its most important use. You cannot use the convenient, no-appearance NBI Quick Renewal service without the NBI ID Number from your previous clearance.
- For Online Verification: Employers, embassies, and other agencies use this number to verify that your NBI Clearance is authentic using the NBI’s official online tool.
- For Future Reference: It helps the NBI quickly locate your official record for any future transactions or inquiries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Unfortunately, the NBI ID Number is only printed on the certificate itself. If you have lost the document and have no photocopy or digital picture of it, you cannot retrieve the number. You will have to apply for a new clearance as a first-time applicant.
No. Each new NBI Clearance certificate you are issued is a unique document and will have its own unique NBI ID Number. However, all these different numbers will still point to your single, permanent criminal history record in the NBI’s main database.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between your NBI ID Number and your Reference Number is simple: the Reference Number is your temporary ticket for the application, while the NBI ID Number is the permanent code on your final, official document.
Always keep a digital photo or a photocopy of your issued NBI Clearance in a safe place. Having a record of your NBI ID Number will make your future renewals significantly faster and easier!
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