How to Get a DTI Certificate in Philippines? 2025

Entrepreneurs launching their own companies in the Philippines must get a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Certificate. In addition to validating your company name, this certificate is an essential document for dealing with banks, suppliers, and clients.

How to Get DTI Certificate in Philippines

In this article, we will guide you on how to get a DTI certificate in the Philippines, ensuring you have all the information you need to get started on your business journey.

What is a DTI Certificate?

A DTI Certificate is an official document that confirms your company name’s registration. In the Philippines, this registration is essential for sole owners and anybody planning to run a business under a specific name.

Type of DTI Certificates

The Business Name Registration Certificate is the main kind of DTI certificate that you will need. This certificate serves as evidence that the Philippine legal system officially accepted and preserved your company name.

Benefits of Having a DTI Certificate

Legal Protection:

The DTI Certificate guarantees that, within the specified region, no one else can legally use your registered business name. This keeps customers from becoming confused and helps protect your brand.

Credibility:

A DTI certificate gives your company more legitimacy. It demonstrates to partners and clients that your company is genuine, which may increase your customer base and foster confidence.

Access to Funding:

When asking for credit or loans, a DTI Certificate is required by many banks and financial organizations. It is a crucial document for companies looking for funding.

Eligibility Requirements

Who Can Apply?

Any Filipino citizen or foreign national with a valid business clearance permit in the Philippines can apply for a DTI Certificate. Whether you’re starting a small shop, an online business, or a service-oriented enterprise, this certificate is vital.

Required Documents

To successfully apply for a DTI Certificate, you need to prepare the following documents:

Valid Identification: A government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license, or any valid photo ID).
Completed Business Name Registration Form: This form can be downloaded from the DTI website or filled out online.
Additional Supporting Documents: If your business requires specific permits (for example, if you’re setting up a food-related business), you may need additional documentation.

Preparing for the Application

Gathering Required Documents

Before you apply, ensure you have the following documents discussed above: a valid ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license), completed business name application form, additional documents (e.g., proof of ownership if renting a space).

Choosing a Business Name:

Ensure the name is unique and not similar to existing businesses.
Avoid using words that are restricted or imply government affiliation.
Keep it simple and memorable for potential customers.

Application Process

Online Registration

Access the DTI Online Portal: Visit the official DTI website and go to the Business Name Registration section.
Create an Account: If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to sign up by providing your email address and creating a password.
Fill Out the Application Form: Input your business details and the chosen business name.

Payment of Fees

Overview of Fees: The fee for registration varies based on the coverage area of your business name (local, regional, or national).
Barangay: Php 200
City/municipality: Php 500
Regional: Php 1000
National: Php 2000

Payment Methods: You can pay via online banking, credit/debit cards, or through authorized payment centers.

Submitting Your Application

After payment, you will receive a confirmation. Review all details and submit your application.
If you choose to apply in person, visit your local DTI office with the required documents and submit them.

What to Expect After Submission

After submitting your application, the DTI will process your request. This can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the volume of applications.

Timeline for Processing

Online Applications: Usually processed within 1-3 working days.
In-Person Applications: May take longer due to queue and processing time.

DTI Certificate Renewal Process

Renewing a DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) Certificate in the Philippines includes several steps:

Check Eligibility: Confirm your certificate can be renewed.
Gather Documents: Existing certificate, valid ID, business permit, TIN.
Visit DTI Website: Visit the DTI online renewal portal.
Fill Application: Complete the renewal form.
Pay Fees: Pay the renewal fee online or at banks.
Submit Application: Submit the form and payment confirmation.
Receive Confirmation: Get application confirmation.
Wait for Processing: Processing time varies from a few days to weeks.
Receive Certificate: Get your renewed certificate by email or mail.
Follow Up: Contact DTI if needed.

FAQs

You can check your application status through the DTI website or by contacting their customer service.

Sole proprietors, freelancers, and small businesses operating under a specific business name are required to obtain a DTI Certificate

Yes, there is a registration fee that varies based on the duration of the registration and the scope of the business.

Yes, you can apply for a change of business name through the DTI. This requires a new application and payment of the corresponding fees.

You can reach out to DTI through their official website or visit your local DTI office for assistance with your application or any inquiries.

Conclusion

In the Philippines, obtaining a DTI Certificate is an essential first step for upcoming business owners. You may successfully navigate the process and create a strong foundation for your company by following the steps provided in this blog. Your entrepreneurial goals might become a reality if you obtain the other necessary permits you need after receiving your DTI Certificate.

How to Get a DTI Certificate in Philippines

What is a DTI Certificate?

Type of DTI Certificates