Carte d'Identite - French ID Card Guide
Complete guide to obtaining or renewing your French national identity card (carte nationale d'identite / CNI). Learn about the required documents, the process, and how long it typically takes in each department.
Required Documents
- Birth certificate less than 3 months old (or 6 months for overseas)
- Proof of French nationality (if not born in France)
- Proof of residence (utility bill, tax notice, etc.)
- 1 recent ID photo (35x45mm, plain background)
- Previous identity card (for renewals)
- Completed CERFA form (pre-filled online recommended)
Steps to Follow
- Gather all required documents
- Complete the CERFA pre-application online at ants.gouv.fr
- Note your pre-application number
- Book an appointment at your local mairie or prefecture
- Attend with all original documents and copies
- Provide your fingerprints at the appointment
- Receive your receipt and wait for SMS/email notification
- Collect your new carte d'identite at the same location
Departments
FAQ
Since 2014, the French national identity card is valid for 15 years for adults and 10 years for minors.
Yes, the first issuance and renewal are free. However, if your card was lost or stolen, a 25 EUR tax stamp is required.
Yes, the French identity card is a valid travel document within the European Union and some other countries.
Processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, but can be longer during peak periods (summer, back-to-school). Check your request status on ants.gouv.fr.
Not all mairies process identity cards. You must apply at a mairie equipped with a biometric capture station. Check the list on service-public.fr.
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