Duratum

Guides · Brazil

National ID card renewal in Brazil

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Instituto de Identificação (Civil Identification Institute), a department of the Polícia Civil (Civil Police) in each Brazilian state, or through state-level 'citizen services' centers like Poupatempo (in São Paulo) or Na Hora (in Brasília)..

Renewing a Brazilian National ID card, known as the Carteira de Identidade Nacional (CIN), involves applying for a new document through the Instituto de Identificação or Poupatempo, typically requiring an in-person visit. The process focuses on verifying identity and updating personal information if needed.

Your timing

It is advisable to begin the renewal process several months before a document's expiration date, especially for the new CIN, or when planning international travel or needing the document for administrative purposes. Processing times can vary, and appointments may have a waiting list, so proactive planning helps avoid potential inconveniences.

Start 60 days ahead

This timeframe accounts for potential delays in scheduling appointments at service centers, as well as the processing and delivery time of the new document. The actual time can vary by state and demand.

The process

  1. 1Check the validity of the current ID card. While older RGs may not have an expiration date, the new Carteira de Identidade Nacional (CIN) does. Renewal may also be necessary due to significant physical changes, damage, or loss.
  2. 2Gather the required documents, which typically include original civil status certificates (birth or marriage), CPF, and proof of residence.
  3. 3Schedule an appointment at an Instituto de Identificação office or a state-specific citizen service center (e.g., Poupatempo, Na Hora). Many states offer online scheduling.
  4. 4Attend the scheduled appointment, bringing all original required documents. Photos and fingerprints will be taken at the service center.
  5. 5Pay any applicable fees. Some states may require payment beforehand, while others allow payment at the service center.
  6. 6Track the status of the new ID card. Most states provide an online tracking system.
  7. 7Collect the new ID card once it is ready, typically at the same location where the application was made or at a designated pick-up point.

What to bring

  • Original birth certificate (Certidão de Nascimento) or marriage certificate (Certidão de Casamento), depending on civil status, for proof of filiation.
  • Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas (CPF) - the individual taxpayer registry number. For the new CIN, the CPF number is mandatory and serves as the single national identification number.
  • Proof of residence (Comprovante de Residência) issued within the last 6 months (e.g., utility bill).
  • If applicable, previous ID card (Carteira de Identidade) for cancellation.
  • If desired, documentation for additional optional information to be included on the CIN, such as professional titles, blood type, PIS/PASEP, or CNH.

Who handles it

Instituto de Identificação (Civil Identification Institute), a department of the Polícia Civil (Civil Police) in each Brazilian state, or through state-level 'citizen services' centers like Poupatempo (in São Paulo) or Na Hora (in Brasília).

The cost for issuing a new Carteira de Identidade Nacional (CIN) varies by state. In many states, the first issuance of the CIN is free. Subsequent issues (due to loss, damage, or renewal) generally incur a fee, which should be confirmed with the specific state's Instituto de Identificação or service center. Fee amounts are typically published on the relevant state government websites.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure all civil status certificates (birth/marriage) are original or certified copies, and that they are up-to-date with any necessary annotations (e.g., divorce).
  • The new Carteira de Identidade Nacional (CIN) uses the CPF as the primary identification number. Individuals without a CPF will need to obtain one first.
  • Appointment availability can vary significantly by location and time of year, potentially requiring booking well in advance.
  • Rules and specific requirements can differ between Brazilian states, especially regarding fees, required documents, and appointment scheduling systems. Always check the official website of the Instituto de Identificação or citizen service center in the relevant state.

Sources

Other documents in Brazil

National ID card renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

Don't rely on remembering

Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.

Track my National ID card