Brazil implements new national identity card using CPF

Brazil is implementing the Carteira de Identidade Nacional (CIN), a new national standard for civil identification designed to replace the traditional Registro Geral (RG). The primary change is the use of the CPF as the sole identification number nationwide, which aims to reduce registration inconsistencies and increase security by preventing individuals from holding different RG numbers across various states.

Citizens are not required to replace their current RG immediately; the old model remains valid until February 28, 2032. Starting March 1, 2032, the CIN will become the mandatory national standard. The first issuance of the CIN is free of charge, though second copies may incur fees depending on state regulations.

The issuance process is managed by state identification agencies and generally requires a regularized CPF, a birth or marriage certificate, and proof of residence. Because procedures vary by state, citizens are advised to check local requirements and schedule appointments through their respective regional identification bodies.