When you apply for an NBI Clearance in the Philippines one section that many people forget to pay attention to is the “Identifying Marks” part of the form. This section is very important because it helps the NBI recognize a person’s unique physical features such as scars, moles, tattoos or birthmarks. These details make it easier to confirm your identity and help prevent mistakes or fraud in the clearance process.
This guide will help you understand what identifying marks are, why they are required and how to fill out this part correctly when applying for your NBI Clearance online or in person.
What Are Identifying Marks in NBI Clearance?
Identifying marks are unique physical features or body characteristics that help distinguish one person from another.
These can include:
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Scars
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Moles
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Birthmarks
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Tattoos
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Burns or surgical marks
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Any visible mark on the face, hands, neck or other body parts
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Why Are Identifying Marks Important?
NBI collects identifying marks to make sure that every record matches the right person. These physical details help the Bureau confirm your identity and prevent mistakes in their records.
Here is why this information matters:
✅ Prevents duplication of NBI records.
✅ Helps verify your identity during background checks.
✅ Assists in investigations when people have the same or similar names.
✅ Improves security for both local and overseas job verification.
By giving accurate identifying marks, you help keep the NBI’s database reliable and avoid any problems or delays with your future clearance applications.
How to Fill Out the “Identifying Marks” Section
When you apply for your NBI Clearance whether online or at an NBI branch you will find a section asking for your identifying marks. Follow these simple steps to fill it out correctly:
Step 1: Look for any visible marks on your body that can help identify you such as “Mole on left cheek” or “Tattoo on right forearm.”
Step 2: Write a short but clear description of the mark. Avoid using vague answers like “none” if you actually have a visible mark.
Step 3: If you truly don’t have any identifying marks, write “None” or “N/A.”
Step 4: Double-check your spelling and details before submitting the form to prevent any mismatches in your NBI record.
How to Editing Identifying Marks in Your NBI Record
If you made a mistake or forgot to include an identifying mark when applying for your NBI Clearance you can easily update it online through the official NBI portal.
Follow these steps:
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Log in to your existing NBI account.
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Open your Profile Information section.
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Click “Edit Information.”
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Find the Identifying Marks field and enter the correct details.
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Save your changes and confirm your update.
For major corrections like removing a tattoo record or changing identifying details that need proof the NBI may require you to visit a branch in person for manual verification and document checking.
How NBI Uses Identifying Marks
NBI uses identifying marks to help confirm a person’s identity during the clearance process. When an NBI officer reviews your application they check your fingerprints, photo and identifying marks together to make sure all your information matches correctly.
If there is a record hit (meaning someone else has the same or a similar name) your identifying marks help the NBI prove that you are a different person. This process helps to ensure that your NBI Clearance is accurate, secure and truly yours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When filling out the “Identifying Marks” section of your NBI Clearance application even small mistakes can cause delays or verification issues. Be sure to avoid these common errors:
❌ Writing “None” when you actually have visible marks.
❌ Submitting unclear or incomplete descriptions (e.g., “mark on arm” instead of “scar on right arm”).
❌ Giving different details in multiple NBI applications.
❌ Using slang or informal terms like “tat” instead of “tattoo.”
✅ Tip: Always double-check your answers before submitting. Accuracy helps prevent mismatches between your NBI record and your actual physical appearance.
Can Identifying Marks Affect Clearance Processing Time?
In most cases, identifying marks do not delay the release of your NBI Clearance. However, if your record triggers a “hit” meaning your name or details match someone else’s the NBI will use your identifying marks to verify your identity.
This verification helps ensure that your clearance belongs to the correct person and prevents mistaken identity.
Conclusion
Identifying marks play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and accuracy of your NBI Clearance record. They serve as an additional layer of identity verification, helping prevent error, duplication and fraudulent entries. By providing truthful and specific details and updating them when necessary you make the NBI’s job easier.
Always remember: accurate personal information not only protects your record but also strengthens the reliability of the NBI system for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What if I don’t have any identifying marks?
If you have no visible marks simply write “None” or “N/A.” Your NBI Clearance will still be processed without any issues.
Q2: Do I need to show my identifying marks during the appointment?
Not always if the NBI staff needs to verify your record they may ask for a quick visual confirmation of your listed marks.
Q3: Can I remove or change an identifying mark record later?
Yes You can update your record online for minor edits. For removals or major corrections, you will need to visit an NBI branch for manual verification and may need to present supporting documents.
Q4: Is it required for minors or first-time applicants?
Yes Every applicant including first-timers and minors must accurately fill in the identifying marks section.
Q5: Will tattoos or scars affect my clearance approval?
No Having tattoos, scars or moles will not affect your clearance approval.
