As of March 31, 2025, all adult citizens can apply for early renewal of their still-valid identity card, to switch to the new, smaller electronic card format, now compatible with the France Identité application. The aim: to have your identity card on your smartphone. Here are the steps to follow and the conditions of eligibility.
The digital identity card is now available to all adults, even if their current card is still valid. Since March 31, 2025, early renewal is possible to obtain the new electronic format, compatible with the France Identité application and usable on smartphones. Conditions, procedure and benefits: we tell you everything.
New identity card: who can apply?
The electronic identity card(CNIe), in credit card format, is now available to all legally competent adults. It is possible to renew an identity card that is still valid, provided it expires in more than a year's time. This does not apply to first-time applications, changes of marital status, or cards expiring in less than a year.
How do I apply for a new identity card?
- Go to the France Titres website (formerly ANTS)
- Select " Identity card and/or passport ".
- Click on " Start this online process ".
- Fill in the pre-application form with the requested information
- Select " Renewal for digital identity " in the reason question
- Keep the file number and QR code generated for the appointment at the town hall
An appointment at the town hall is essential to finalize the application. You'll need to present the usual supporting documents: recent passport photo, proof of address, oldidentity card.
How long will it take?
Requests for digital identity are not given priority. Delays may therefore be longer, particularly during periods of high demand, or depending on availability at town halls.
How do I digitize my card with the France Identité application?
Download the France Identité application (Android or iOS)
Follow the in-app tutorial to scan and activate the card
Then use the digital version of the card with compatible services
Is the physical card still valid?
Use of the digital card remains optional. The physical version of the identity card remains valid.
With the new identity card, get your Vitale card on your smartphone too
Since March 18, 2025, holders of the electronic identity card have been able to activate their digital Vitale card on their phone via the France Identité application.
How do I get a digital Carte Vitale?
- Have a credit-card format identity card
- Download the France Identité application
- Identify yourself with your card and social security number
- Follow the activation steps suggested in the application
What's it for?
- Identify yourself to healthcare professionals
- Obtain reimbursement for treatment
- Present your smartphone at the pharmacy or at a medical appointment
Simply unlock the application and scan the phone's screen.
Who can use it?
- All policyholders affiliated to Social Security, MSA or MGEN
- Entitled dependents (spouses, children) can be included
- Access to the application will be extended to all insurance schemes by autumn 2025
Is the physical card still valid?
Yes, it is still active and must be kept. Not all healthcare professionals are yet equipped to use the digital version.
What additional services does the application offer?
- Add health insurance information
- Automatic activation of third-party payment (compulsory and complementary)
- Secure connection to Mon espace santé and France Connect
In short, a new connected era is upon us. If you want to simplify your paperwork, always have your papers to hand and never lose them, this is the solution to adopt.
