Salvadoran DUI (national ID) in the United States: how to get or renew it
The DUI (Documento Unico de Identidad / national ID) is the identity card for every Salvadoran of legal age. If you live in the United States, you do not need to travel to El Salvador to get it or renew it: the consular network handles the process and, at several locations, even delivers it the same day. In this guide we explain what the DUI is, where to apply for it, what documents you need and how to do it step by step.
Contents
What the DUI is and how it differs from the passport
The DUI is issued by the RNPN (Registro Nacional de las Personas Naturales / National Registry of Natural Persons) and is the official identity document for Salvadorans aged 18 and over. You use it to identify yourself, vote, open bank accounts and complete all kinds of procedures in El Salvador, even if you live abroad.
Important: the DUI is not the same as the passport. The DUI identifies you within El Salvador and for domestic procedures; the Salvadoran passport is the document you use to travel internationally.
Where to apply and consulates with same-day delivery
The DUI is processed at the consulates of El Salvador in the United States. Some locations have the same-day (immediate) delivery system, while at others the document may take longer to be ready. The consulates with same-day delivery are:
- 📍 Los Angeles (California)
- 📍 Woodbridge (Virginia)
- 📍 Silver Spring (Maryland)
- 📍 Long Island / Brentwood (New York)
- 📍 Dallas (Texas)
If your consulate is not on this list, it can still process your DUI; just ask for the estimated delivery time when you book. Find the location closest to your city on our home page.
Requirements for the DUI
The documents you need to bring depend on whether this is your first DUI or a renewal:
- Renewal: you usually present your previous DUI to verify your information.
- First time: identity documents such as a Salvadoran birth certificate or a passport are usually required.
The exact requirements and the cost of the procedure may vary depending on your case and the location. Always confirm them with your consulate or directly with the RNPN at rnpn.gob.sv before your appointment.
How to apply for the DUI step by step
- Book your free appointment at portalcitas.rree.gob.sv, through the Call Center or via WhatsApp.
- Choose the consulate closest to you and the "DUI" procedure.
- Gather your documents according to whether it is your first DUI or a renewal.
- Attend your appointment with the confirmation and the requirements; your biometric data will be collected there.
- Pick up your DUI: the same day at locations with same-day delivery, or when indicated at the others.
- 🌐 Appointment portal: portalcitas.rree.gob.sv
- 📞 Call Center: 1-888-301-1130 (option 4 for the US and Canada)
- 💬 WhatsApp: +503 7070-1071
Validity and renewal
The DUI has a limited validity and must be renewed before it expires so that it remains valid for your procedures. Renewal at the consulate is usually quicker, since presenting your previous DUI is enough. If the document is expired, damaged or has outdated information (for example, a change of address or marital status), it is a good idea to update it during your appointment.
Is your son or daughter not yet 18? In that case the identification document is different; check our guide to the minor's ID card (carne de minoridad).
Frequently asked questions about the DUI
What is the DUI and what is it used for?
It is the Documento Unico de Identidad (national ID), the identity card for Salvadorans aged 18 and over, issued by the RNPN. It is used to identify yourself, vote, open bank accounts and handle procedures in El Salvador.
Which consulates deliver the DUI the same day?
Same-day delivery is available in Los Angeles (CA), Woodbridge (VA), Silver Spring (MD), Long Island/Brentwood (NY) and Dallas (TX). At the other consulates the document may take longer; ask when you book.
Are the DUI and the passport the same thing?
No. The DUI is your identity document for procedures within El Salvador; the passport is the document you use to travel. They are different procedures and documents.
Do I need an appointment to get the DUI?
Yes, and it is free. Book it at portalcitas.rree.gob.sv, through the Call Center at 1-888-301-1130 (option 4 for the US and Canada) or via WhatsApp at +503 7070-1071.
What documents should I bring?
To renew, your previous DUI is usually enough. For your first DUI, documents such as a Salvadoran birth certificate or a passport are normally required. Confirm requirements and cost with your consulate or the RNPN.