Identifying Marks in NBI Clearance? Example and Explanation

When applying for an NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) Clearance in the Philippines, one of the details you need to provide is your “Identifying Marks.” Many applicants are unsure what this means and why it is required. Identifying marks help in distinguishing individuals and preventing mistaken identities in official records. In this blog post, we will explain what identifying marks are, why they are important, how the NBI uses them, and provide examples to help you fill out your application correctly.

About Identifying Marks?

Identifying marks refer to unique physical features on a person’s body that can help in distinguishing them from others. These marks can be birthmarks, scars, tattoos, moles, or any visible body characteristics that are permanent. The purpose of these marks is to provide an additional way to verify a person’s identity aside from their name and facial features.

Why Are Identifying Marks Important NBI Clearance?

Identifying marks are essential for several reasons:

1. Avoids Identity Confusion – Many people have similar names, and having identifying marks recorded can help authorities distinguish individuals accurately.
2. Aids in Crime Investigation – If a person is involved in a legal case, their identifying marks can be used for verification.
3. Enhances Security Measures – It ensures that the clearance issued belongs to the correct individual, reducing the chances of fraud.
4. Essential for Law Enforcement – Police officers, security agencies, and other authorities use identifying marks to confirm a person’s identity in case of an arrest or investigation.

What Are the Requirements for NBI Clearance?

To apply for an NBI Clearance, you need the following:

• A valid government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license, SSS ID, UMID, or PRC ID)
• Personal information (including birth date, address, and identifying marks)
• Recent photograph (captured during biometrics)
• Application fee (varies depending on the type of clearance)

How Does the NBI Clearance Use Identifying Marks?

The NBI Clearance in the Philippines utilizes identifying marks as part of a multi-layered identification process to ensure accuracy and prevent identity fraud.

Application Process :

• Applicants are required to list any permanent identifying marks (e.g., scars, tattoos, birthmarks) on their application form. This information is collected alongside biometric data (fingerprints, photo) and personal details.

Database Integration:

• Identifying marks are stored in the NBI’s centralized database. They serve as secondary identifiers to complement primary biometric data like fingerprints.
• This helps resolve cases of mistaken identity, particularly for individuals with common names.

Background Checks:

• During clearance processing, the NBI cross-references the applicant’s details against criminal records and other databases.
• Identifying marks help differentiate individuals who share names or other similarities with persons of interest, reducing “NBI Clearance hit“ errors.

Verification:

• While the physical NBI Clearance certificate typically does not display identifying marks, the data is accessible internally.
• Employers or agencies requesting verification can rely on this information (alongside fingerprints and photos) to confirm identity.

Legal and Security Purpose : 

• Collecting identifying marks aligns with legal requirements for accurate criminal record checks.
• They act as an additional layer of security, especially if fingerprints are unclear or if someone attempts identity fraud.

Also Check : Nbi Clearance Dress Code

What Are Examples of Identifying Marks (NBI Clearance)?

Here are some common examples of identifying marks:

• Birthmarks – Example: “Brown birthmark on left shoulder”
• Scars – Example: “Scar on right knee from surgery”
• Tattoos – Example: “Dragon tattoo on right forearm”
• Moles – Example: “Dark mole under left eye”
• Burn Marks – Example: “Burn scar on left hand”
• Surgical Marks – Example: “Appendectomy scar on lower abdomen”

These marks should be accurately described when filling out your NBI Clearance application to ensure proper documentation.

How to Identify and Document Your Own Identifying Marks?

If you are unsure about your identifying marks, follow these steps:

1. Check Your Body – Look for any permanent scars, moles, birthmarks, or tattoos on your arms, legs, face, back, or any other visible areas.
2. Take Note of Location – Write down the exact location of each mark. Example: “Small mole on the right cheek.”
3. Describe the Mark – Mention the size, color, and shape if possible. Example: “Circular, dark brown birthmark on upper left arm.”
4. Ask for Help – If you are unsure, ask a family member or use a mirror to check hard-to-see areas.
5. Be Honest – Provide accurate information in your NBI Clearance application.

FAQ:

Can I leave the identifying marks section blank in my NBI Clearance application?

• No, if you have visible marks, you must declare them. If you have none, you may write “None” or “N/A.”

What if I forget to list some identifying marks?

• It is best to be as detailed as possible, but minor mistakes won’t affect your application. However, if you discover significant omissions, you may update your records in future applications.

Do all tattoos need to be reported?

• Yes, all permanent tattoos should be mentioned, regardless of size or location.

Will my identifying marks be used against me?

• No, these marks are only for identity verification and will not affect your clearance result.

What if my identifying marks change over time?

• If you undergo surgery, get new scars, or remove a tattoo, you can update your details in your next NBI application.

Conclusion:

Identifying marks play an important role in verifying a person’s identity when applying for an NBI Clearance. They help prevent mistaken identities and ensure accurate records. Whether you have a scar, a mole, or a tattoo, correctly documenting your identifying marks will make your NBI application smoother. By understanding how these marks work and how they are used by the NBI, you can confidently complete your application without confusion. If you are applying for NBI Clearance soon, take a moment to check and record your identifying marks properly!