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Electronic Identification

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How to identify myself electronically before the Public Administrations

Generally, you can identify yourself electronically to the Public Administrations through 2 types of systems:

  • Systems based on electronic certificates

  • Systems of concerted key

Next, we will explain each of them to you.

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Systems based on electronic certificates

Electronic certificate

The electronic certificate is also called a digital certificate.

It is the means of electronic identification that offers the greatest guarantee.

It is a file that allows you to identify a person in an unequivocal way.

It has the same validity as the presentation of the ID card in face-to-face care.

The Public Administrations only accept certificates that come from accredited certification bodies

What are these certificates?

There are many accredited providers, both in the Public Administrations and in the private sector, that can provide you with this type of electronic certificates.

The most common electronic certificates are the following:

  • Citizen software certificate issued by the National Currency and Stamp Factory (FNMT), a public entity accredited to issue electronic certificates.

  • Electronic DNI (DNIe): In this case, the certificate is inserted into the DNIe chip. It is issued by the General Directorate of Police.

How can I apply for these certificates?

You can request these electronic certificates in the following ways:

  • Software certificate of the FNMT. You can get it by 2 ways:

    • In person, in an office, where you will prove your identity.
      Previously, you will need a code that you will get when you start the request.
    • Telematically, using your electronic ID
    • Telematically, using video identification

For more information, you can consult our page about
How to obtain the electronic certificate.

  • Electronic ID: This certificate is located within the DNIe chip, and is obtained at the time the police issue it to you. Afterwards, you have to activate it in the machine that is there for this purpose in the station where you have obtained it; you can do this right after finishing the expedition.

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Concerted key systems

Concerted key systems are user- and password-based, and require you to register earlier.

The registration must guarantee the identity of the person.

The most widespread system in Public Administrations is Cl@ve. In our Page about Cl@ve You can learn more about how to register and the regulatory regulation.

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Identification and electronic signature

Electronic certificate

With the electronic certificate you can both identify yourself and sign electronically.

The certificate-based electronic signature has the same validity as the handwritten signature.

You can use the electronic signature in the following cases, among others:

  • Sign documents. For example, a PDF.

  • Carry out procedures that require a signature. For example, making a request.

In addition to the electronic certificate, you need one signature application

For procedures that require signature, you will need to have the AutoSignature signature application installed. You can download it here.

Cl@ve

With the Cl@ve PIN, Cl@ve Permanente or Cl@ve Móvil concerted key systems you can only identify yourself, but you cannot sign electronically.

However, there is the option of Cl@ve Signature, It does allow the electronic signature, although at the moment it is only available for very few procedures.

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When to use a software certificate, Cl@ve or electronic ID

Software certificate

Advantages:

  • It is allowed to identify you in any procedure or procedure of the Administration

  • Allows you to sign electronically

Drawbacks:

  • You need to install it on an electronic device (such as a PC)

  • If you want to use it on multiple devices, you will need to export it and install it on each of them.

Electronic ID

Advantages:

  • It is allowed to identify you in any procedure or procedure of the Administration

  • You don’t need to install it on an electronic device

  • Allows you to sign electronically

Drawbacks:

  • You need a card reader. From version 3.0 of the DNIe you can use the mobile as a card reader

  • You may need to install some additional software

Cl@ve

Advantages:

  • You don’t need to install it on an electronic device

  • You can use it from any device (PC or mobile)

Drawbacks:

  • You can not use it in all procedures and procedures

  • You can not use it in all public administrations

  • It does not allow you to sign electronically

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Regulatory regulation

Electronic identification is regulated in the following regulatory provisions:

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Electronic relationship