Duratum

Guides · Cameroon

National ID card renewal in Cameroon

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Délégation Générale à la Sûreté Nationale (General Delegation for National Security).

Renewing a Cameroonian national identity card involves updating biometric data and photographic records at a designated identification center. The process requires an in-person appearance to verify identity and collect new credentials.

Your timing

Applicants are generally advised to begin the renewal process several months before the document expires. High demand at identification centers can lead to significant appointment backlogs and extended processing times for the production of the new card.

Start 90 days ahead

A three-month window accounts for administrative processing delays and the potential need for follow-up visits to collection centers.

The process

  1. 1Verify the required documentation and current fee schedules at the nearest police identification center or official delegation website.
  2. 2Pay the mandated stamp duty or processing fee at an authorized collection point or designated bank.
  3. 3Visit the local identification center in person to have biometric data (fingerprints) and a photograph captured.
  4. 4Submit the application file along with proof of payment.
  5. 5Monitor the official notification system for updates regarding the status of the new card.
  6. 6Return to the collection center with the original receipt to pick up the issued identity card.

What to bring

  • Original birth certificate or a certified copy
  • Proof of payment receipt
  • The expired or expiring national identity card
  • Supporting documentation for any changes in personal details, such as marriage or divorce certificates

Who handles it

Délégation Générale à la Sûreté Nationale (General Delegation for National Security)

https://www.dgsn.cm/

The fee is subject to government regulation; check the latest DGSN communication for the current official rate in CFA Francs (XAF).

What commonly goes wrong

  • Failure to provide original, certified documents may result in immediate application rejection.
  • Incomplete payment receipts or unofficial payment channels will delay processing.
  • Data entry errors during the biometric capture process can lead to significant delays in card issuance.

Sources

This guide is based on one official source.

Other documents in Cameroon

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