What is the DNI? - National Identity Document in Spain
The DNI (National Identity Document) is the official document that certifies the identity and personal data of Spanish citizens. It is issued by the General Directorate of Police and its use is mandatory for all Spaniards over 14 years of age residing in Spain and for those of the same age who, residing abroad, move to Spain for a period of not less than six months.
The information provided is based on official data from the Ministry of the Interior. You can consult more details on the official DNI website.
Related tools:
- DNI Generator - Create valid DNIs for testing
- DNI Validator - Check if a DNI is valid
- DNI Letter Calculator - Calculate the control letter
DNI Characteristics
Data included
- Name and surnames
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Sex
- Parents' names
- Current address
- Personal number and verification letter
- Date of issue and validity
Security elements
- Cryptographic chip
- Digital photograph
- Changing laser image (CLI)
- Optically variable inks
- Anti-copy measures
- Security backgrounds
DNI Structure
The current DNI (DNI 4.0) incorporates the latest technologies in document and electronic security:
- 8 numbers: Unique sequential number
- 1 letter: Verification letter calculated using a specific algorithm
- NFC chip: Allows contactless reading and stores digital certificates
- QR code: Facilitates quick verification of the document
DNI Validity
- 2 years for people under 5 years old
- 5 years for people under 30 years old
- 10 years for people under 70 years old
- Permanent for people over 70 years old
What is the DNI used for?
The DNI is necessary for:
- Identifying yourself to authorities and public officials
- Carrying out banking procedures
- Voting in elections
- Traveling within the European Union
- Signing contracts
- Carrying out administrative procedures
- Digital identification and electronic signature
Electronic DNI (DNIe)
The electronic DNI incorporates a chip that allows:
- Authentication in online services
- Electronic signature with legal validity
- Storage of digital certificates
- Secure access to public administration services
Frequently asked questions about the DNI
How to renew the DNI?
You can renew your DNI at any National Police station with a DNI issuance office. It is recommended to make an appointment in advance through the official website.
How to get the DNI for the first time?
You must go to a DNI issuance office with the required documentation: birth certificate, photograph, and payment of the corresponding fee.
What to do if I lose my DNI?
You should report the loss at a police station and request a new issuance. The lost document will be invalidated in the system.
Brief history of the DNI
The Spanish DNI was created in 1951. Since then, it has evolved through several versions, incorporating increasingly advanced security measures. The current version (DNI 4.0) was introduced in 2015 and includes NFC technology.