Take the National Identity Document (DNI) on your mobile phone It is now possible in Spain thanks to the new official application launched by the National Police: MyDNI. This digital solution allows you to verify your identity in multiple everyday contexts without needing to carry a physical document, although there are still certain limitations that are worth being aware of. However, the major concern that has arisen since its launch is the proliferation of apps that mimic its name or functionality, generating confusion and even risks to user privacy. Although the Ministry of the Interior and the National Police have officially enabled this digital tool (which is available on the Google Play Store and App Store as of yesterday, April 2, 2025), its low visibility in the search engines of both platforms has led many users to download apps that appear to be the original, but which in reality have no institutional backing or legal validity.
What is MiDNI and what is it for?
MiDNI is a free app, developed by the National Police, which allows you to carry your ID digitally on your smartphone. This tool allows you to present an official and valid ID to institutions, private entities, and state security forces. It also offers features such as generating temporary QR codes digitally sealed, which allows personal data to be shared selectively depending on the type of procedure.
The user can choose to display only Basic information (such as age and photo), intermediate data (including name and surname) or the entire content of the physical documentThis versatility facilitates in-person transactions such as renting a car, checking in at hotels, opening a bank account, signing notarized documents, or picking up packages at courier offices.
However, the application does not completely replace the physical ID.It cannot be used as a travel document, nor for identification outside of Spain, nor for online procedures that require an electronic signature. In these cases, the physical document is still required.
How to register and activate MiDNI
To use MiDNI, you need a prior registration that links the citizen's identity to their mobile phone numberThere are three main ways to make this connection:
- Through the official website www.midni.gob.es using a Electronic DNI and a compatible reader.
- Through the Documentation Update Points (DUP) available at National Police stations.
- Going directly to the DNI issuing offices to carry out the procedure in person.
Once this process is complete, a unique code is received that allows the app to be activated on the mobile device. The user must then create a secure password and activate biometric options such as fingerprint or facial recognition if desired.
Confusion with unofficial apps
Since the launch of MiDNI, various entities and media have warned about the Existence of applications with similar names such as "my DNI" or "DNI Wallet" that are not related to the PoliceSome of these apps may request payments or even share personal data with third parties, all without any legal safeguards.
For example, the app "my ID", available on both Google Play and the App Store and developed by an American company, It is presented as a trial solution with no government affiliation or legal validityIt even clearly states that data may be shared with other services, which represents a significant risk to user privacy.
Screenshots of the miDNI app on Android
Another popular app is the aforementioned "DNI Wallet," which simulates a digital wallet for storing documents such as ID cards, health cards, or driver's licenses. Although it boasts "data encryption" and privacy, It is not supported by any Spanish public administration and does not require identity verification like MiDNI.
Apps like these have come to position themselves among the most downloaded in their respective categories, even above MiDNI, which has caused confusion and errors for thousands of citizens. Even when writing its exact name, it appears very low, something that should have been anticipated before its launch, given that it directly affects user security.
In this regard, the National Police and the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) have issued numerous public notices to clarify which is the only valid app. They also warn that entering data into unofficial apps can lead to fraud, identity theft, or transferring information to third parties for commercial purposes. On its official channels, the Police have also shared the MiDNI app logo (a blue background, combined blue and white letters, and the Spanish and European flags) to help identify it correctly. They also emphasize that the app it's totally free and does not require any type of payment for its download or use.
Where to download the official MiDNI app
To avoid mistakes, it is best to Go directly to the official project website: www.midni.gob.es, which offers secure links to both Google Play and the App Store.
From there, users can ensure they're downloading the right app, avoiding scams or imitations with similar names. App stores themselves offer no guarantees against this type of confusion, so extreme caution is advised.
First year of progressive adaptation
Although the digital DNI is already legally valid, the authorities have established a twelve-month period for companies, businesses, and private entities to adapt to the new format. During this time, Some establishments may not yet recognize this system. or lack the means to verify it. In this sense, although the citizen has the right to present their digital ID, It is recommended to also bring the physical document, at least until the use of the digital format is fully widespread.
Screenshots of the miDNI app on iOS
This initial phase will also serve as a test to improve the app's usability, resolve issues, and evaluate the citizen experience. It is also expected that, starting in 2026, MiDNI will incorporate additional features such as: electronic signature and online procedure management.
This type of initiatives is part of a increasing trend towards digitalization of public services, as was already the case with the MiDGT and Mi Folder Ciudadana apps. Previous experience with these tools suggests a positive outcome, although there are still aspects to be perfected in terms of compatibility, accessibility, and user experience. Not to mention controversial "unofficial" solutions like the one we're now facing. Be careful.