Frequently Asked Questions about Spanish ID Documents

Find answers to the most common questions about DNI, NIE, NIF, CIF and other Spanish identity documents. Includes information about validation, letter calculation, and document usage.

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Questions about DNI

How do I know if my DNI is valid?

A valid DNI must meet these requirements:

  • 8 numbers followed by a letter
  • The letter must match the calculation algorithm
  • It cannot contain the letters I, Ñ, O, U

You can use our DNI validator to check it.

How is the DNI letter calculated?

The letter is calculated by dividing the number by 23 and using the remainder to assign a letter according to a specific table. Check the complete formula or use our calculator.

Questions about NIE

What is the difference between NIE and TIE?

The NIE is the identification number, while the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) is the physical document where the NIE appears. More information about NIE.

Why does my NIE start with X, Y or Z?

  • X: First series of NIEs (oldest)
  • Y: Second series, when X was exhausted
  • Z: Current series, when Y was exhausted

Questions about CIF

What does the initial letter of the CIF mean?

The initial letter indicates the type of organization. For example:

  • A: Public Limited Companies
  • B: Limited Liability Companies
  • G: Associations
  • See complete list

How is a CIF validated?

A valid CIF must have:

  • Valid initial letter
  • 7 numbers (including provincial code)
  • Correct control digit/letter

Use our CIF validator to check it.

General questions

What is the difference between NIF and DNI?

For Spanish individuals, the NIF coincides with the DNI. The difference is in its use:

  • DNI: Identity document for personal identification
  • NIF: Tax identification number for tax procedures

For foreigners, the NIF corresponds to the NIE. For companies, the NIF is the CIF.

Can I use generated DNIs/NIEs for tests in official documents?

No. The documents generated by our tools are exclusively for software testing, development, and training. Using false identifications in official documents is illegal and may constitute a crime of document forgery.

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