Brazilian Identity Card

The cédula de identidade, informally called cartão/carteira de identidade (identity card), "RG" (from Registro Geral, General Registry) or simply identidade in Portuguese, is the official national identity document in Brazil. It contains the name, birth date, parents' names, signature and thumbprint of the bearer. Other national documents can legally be used as an identity card, such asstate-issued driver's licenses, passports or, for minors, birth certificates.

Each card has a unique number, the RG number . The card may also have the bearer's CPF number printed alongside the RG number.

Having and carrying an RG card is not compulsory under federal, state or municipal law, but it is common for all citizens who are of legal age — 18 years old — to have one, as it is extensively used for identification. Minors may also obtain one, but if the individual is under 16 at the time they apply, it will expire on their 18th birthday, making it necessary to apply for another one.

Identity cards are issued by state governments and are valid nationwide. There is no legal restriction on having more than one identity card, provided that each one is issued by a different state.

The documents required for obtaining an identity card depend on whether the applicant is single, married or naturalized. For single persons, a birth certificate (the original or a certified copy) is used; for those who are married, the marriage certificate is used. As for naturalized persons, a naturalization certificate is used. If the applicant so desires, their CPF number can be printed on the card alongside the RG number.

An identity card is commonly required for such activities as getting a driver's licence, opening a bank account, buying or selling real estate, financing debts, applying for a job, giving testimony in court, and entering some public buildings. The police may ask to see the identity card of anyone who is detained, arrested, or searched.

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