Guides · Uruguay

National ID card renewal in Uruguay

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Dirección Nacional de Identificación Civil (DNIC) / National Civil Identification Directorate.

Renewing a Uruguayan National ID card (Cédula de Identidad) primarily involves scheduling an appointment, attending in person at a DNIC office, and providing necessary documentation. The new card will feature updated details and a current photograph.

Your timing

It is generally advisable to begin the renewal process several weeks before the current card expires. This allows ample time to secure an appointment, as waiting times can vary depending on the location and demand, and to account for the processing and printing time of the new card.

Start 30 days ahead

This accounts for potential appointment waiting times and the subsequent processing and printing of the new ID card. While some offices offer faster processing, it's prudent to allow a buffer.

The process

  1. 1Verify the expiration date of the current National ID card.
  2. 2Schedule an appointment through the official online system (Agenda Web) or by phone. Appointments can be made for DNIC offices in Montevideo or various interior departments.
  3. 3Gather the required documents: the expired or soon-to-expire National ID card.
  4. 4Attend the scheduled appointment at the chosen DNIC office. At this time, a new photograph will be taken, fingerprints will be scanned, and the necessary information will be confirmed.
  5. 5Pay the applicable fee at the time of the appointment or through authorized payment methods as indicated by DNIC.
  6. 6Collect the new National ID card on the specified date, typically at the same office where the application was processed, or as otherwise instructed.

What to bring

  • Current or expired Uruguayan National ID card (Cédula de Identidad).

Who handles it

Dirección Nacional de Identificación Civil (DNIC) / National Civil Identification Directorate

https://www.gub.uy/

The fee for renewing a National ID card for Uruguayan citizens is a set amount (known as a 'Tasa') which can be confirmed on the DNIC website or during the appointment scheduling process. It is subject to change.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Appointment availability can vary; it is recommended to book in advance, especially in peak times.
  • Ensure all personal details on the existing card are accurate; any necessary updates (e.g., name change due to marriage) may require additional documentation and different procedures.
  • For renewals outside of Uruguay, specific procedures and required documents may differ and should be confirmed with the nearest Uruguayan consulate.
  • The new card will be printed with a fresh photograph taken at the DNIC office, so applicants should be prepared for this.

Sources

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