How to Get a DTI Certificate in the Philippines (2025)

DTI certificate is a mandatory document to set up a business in the Philippines, it is issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which serves as proof that your business name is registered and should be considered legal for all legal and business purposes.

It is crucial to have proper knowledge about the DTI certificate, its procedures, and the required documents to get it. In this guide, we will explore you have everything you need to register your business smoothly.

What is a DTI Certificate?

A DTI Certificate is an official paper showing that your business name has been registered in the DTI. Every business owner should have this document as proof of legitimacy for using his or her business name lawfully in a certain business activity.

Types of DTI Certificates

Business Name Registration Certificate:

This is to certify the registration of a new business name and primarily the kind of DTI Certificate required in the operation of a business by lawful means in the Philippines.

Barangay Clearance (in connection with DTI Certificate):

In connection with barangay clearance, businesses are in some ways required, as well as in local activities concerning their DTI Certificates.

Basic Eligibility Criteria to Obtain DTI Certificate

To be able to obtain the DTI Certificate, you shall be:

A Filipino or a duly authorized representative by a business organization registered in the Philippines.
Have a valid, unique, and approved name.
Meet all the specific requirements about your type of business structure i.e. sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.

Required Documents for DTI Certificate

For Individuals:

A valid government-issued ID (e.g., driving license, passport).
Proof of business address (e.g., utility bills, lease contract)

For Businesses:

Articles of Incorporation in the case of corporations, or partnership agreements.
Proof of Business Address
TIN – Tax Identification Number

How to obtain a DTI Certificate in the Philippines

You can apply for a DTI Certificate online or in person.

Online Application

Account Creation: Visit the official DTI website and sign up for an account.
Fill Out the Application Form: Provide your contact and business information and your desired business name.
Attach Documents: Upload the required documents in scanned copies.
Submit Application: Review the information and submit your application for processing.

Applying In Person

Visit a DTI Office: Find the nearest DTI branch and visit it.
Submit Documents: The applicant has to submit the necessary documents to the DTI staff.
Fill Out Forms: The applicant fills out any forms given by the staff.
Get a Receipt: Get a confirmation or receipt of your application.

DTI Certificate Fees

The registration fee differs according to the kind of business and the period of registration. It ranges from PHP 200 to PHP 2,000, it varies for fast processing of applications.

How to Pay:

Online payment via the DTI portal.
Payment over-the-counter at DTI offices or other payment centers accredited by the DTI.

DTI Certificate Processing Time

Online Submissions: Applications are usually processed within 1 to 3 business days.
In-Person Submissions: It usually takes 1 to 5 business days.

How to Obtain Your DTI Certificate

For Online Applications:

You will be given an electronic copy of your DTI Certificate, which you will either receive via email or directly download from the DTI website.

For In-Person Applications:

You may pick up your certificate from the DTI office or have it delivered to your address of record.

In case there is a delay or any error, you may contact DTI support or you can also go directly to the office where you submitted your application.

What Are The Next Steps After Receiving a DTI Certificate

Opening a Business Bank Account

Open a business bank account using the DTI Certificate to manage finances.

Get Other Permits

Mayor’s Permit and registration from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) come in other permits.

Barangay Clearance

Get this clearance if your LGU requires this for the said business activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The DTI Certificate is valid for five years. It is renewable upon the expiration of its validity.

Yes, but you’d have to file for a new registration because, after the change, the old certificate won’t be valid anymore.

In the instance of your DTI Certificate getting lost, it can equally be replaced either by physically visiting the offices of DTI or by logging into your account at DTI online and re-downloading the soft copy.

No, only Filipino citizens or businesses registered in the Philippines can apply for a DTI Certificate.

Yes, you have to register at the Bureau of Internal Revenue and secure a Mayor’s Permit and other requirements by the LGU.

Yes, even online businesses in the Philippines are also obliged to register with the DTI to legalize the operation.

Yes, operating without a DTI Certificate attracts fines, other penalties, and possible legal action being taken.

Yes, DTI Certificates can be renewed online through the official DTI portal. Make sure you apply for renewal before the expiration date to avoid penalties.

Conclusion

To conclude, a DTI Certificate is one of the primary licenses you need to acquire to start your business clearance in the Philippines. It legally verifies your business name, that your business meets all legal requirements, and builds credibility for your business.

In this article, you have full guidance about the application steps that will take you smoothly through the process of setting a good foundation for business success.

How to Get a DTI Certificate in the Philippines (2025)

What is a DTI Certificate?