From April 2, Spanish nationals will be able to identify themselves using their mobile phone instead of carrying a physical DNI. The change, confirmed by the National Police, makes the digital version of the DNI legally valid in many everyday situations – but it only applies to Spanish citizens. Foreign residents with a TIE are not included.

It’s a small change on paper, but in real life, it’s something a lot of people will notice straight away. For the first time, you won’t always need to check your wallet before heading out. In many cases, your phone will do the job.

The physical card isn’t disappearing, though. It’s still valid and, in some situations, still required. But from now on, there’s a second option – and it’s one most people already rely on.

Digital DNI now accepted in real-life situations across Spain

Up until now, having your DNI on your phone was possible, but its use was limited.

That changes from April.

The digital DNI, available through the official MiDNI app, is now recognised as a valid way to prove your identity in person, whether you’re dealing with public authorities or private businesses.

So if you’re asked to show ID, you can often just open the app instead of reaching for your wallet.

The National Police has stressed that only the MiDNI app is legally valid. It works differently from a simple stored document – each time you use it, the app connects to police servers and generates your identity data in real time.

That data is digitally signed and only valid for a short period, which helps prevent tampering or misuse.

Another key point: your personal information isn’t permanently stored on your phone, which adds a layer of security if your device is lost or stolen.

Where you can use your DNI on your phone

In practice, the digital DNI is designed for everyday, face-to-face situations.

You can use it to identify yourself when opening a bank account, checking into a hotel, renting a car, signing documents before a notary, or collecting a parcel. It can also be used in administrative procedures, at universities, or to prove your age.

It even covers situations like accessing buildings, attending events, or completing certain in-person formalities where ID is required.

For many people, that simply means fewer things to carry – and fewer chances of being caught without your ID when you need it.

What hasn’t changed: limits you need to know

Despite the change, the digital DNI doesn’t replace everything.

For now, it can’t be used online for identification or electronic signatures. It also won’t work without an internet connection, as the system relies on real-time verification.

You also can’t use it for travel, so crossing borders still requires your physical DNI or a passport. And outside Spain, the digital version isn’t recognised.

It’s also worth repeating: this update only applies to Spanish citizens with a DNI. If you’re a foreign resident in Spain and hold a TIE, you’ll still need to carry your physical card as usual.

How to get your DNI on your phone

Setting it up is fairly straightforward, although it does require a quick registration step.

You’ll first need to register your DNI. This can be done at a police station, when renewing your ID, or from home if you already have an electronic DNI and a compatible card reader.

Once registered, you download the MiDNI app from Google Play or the App Store.

After opening the app, you enter your DNI details, create a password and confirm your identity using a code sent by SMS. You can also enable fingerprint or facial recognition for easier access.

Once that’s done, your DNI is ready to use from your phone.

A change people will actually feel in daily life

Unlike many administrative updates, this one is easy to notice.

Being able to step out without your physical ID – and still be able to prove who you are – removes a small but familiar hassle from everyday life.

At the same time, nothing is being forced. The physical DNI remains fully valid, and in some cases, still necessary.

So for now, it’s about giving people a practical alternative rather than replacing the system entirely.

What happens next

This rollout is likely just the first step.

As the system develops, the digital DNI could be expanded to cover more uses, including online identification and additional official procedures.

But as of April 2, one thing is already clear: for Spanish citizens, your phone can now act as your ID – at least in most day-to-day situations.