How many years is the ID card valid for? Detailed explanation of the validity period regulations of ID cards for different age groups
The ID card is an important identity document for every citizen, and its validity period varies depending on the age at the time of application. Recently, the discussion about the validity period of ID cards has become one of the hot topics on the Internet, and many netizens have questions about the specific regulations. This article will combine the hot spots across the Internet to explain the validity period rules of ID cards in detail in the form of structured data.
1. Classification of validity periods of ID cards

According to the "Resident Identity Card Law of the People's Republic of China", the validity period of an identity card is divided into three situations, as follows:
| Claiming age | Validity period |
|---|---|
| Under 16 years old | 5 years |
| 16-25 years old | 10 years |
| 26-45 years old | 20 years |
| 46 years old and above | Effective for a long time |
2. Answers to hot questions
1.How to check the validity period of ID card?
The "validity period" is clearly marked on the bottom of the front of the ID card (the side with the national emblem printed on it) in the format of "XXXX.XX.XX-XXXX.XX.XX".
2.What to do after the validity period expires?
You must go to the public security bureau at the place of household registration or residence to get a new certificate within 3 months before expiration. Recently, many places have launched "online appointment and certificate replacement" services, which have become a hot spot for convenience.
3.How long is the temporary ID card valid for?
The temporary ID card is only valid for 3 months and does not have a chip function, so it cannot be used in electronic verification scenarios.
3. Extended topics that are hotly discussed across the Internet
1.Promotion progress of electronic ID cards
Recently, many places across the country have piloted electronic ID card application scenarios, but physical ID cards are still legal documents that must be carried.
2.New policy for certificate renewal in other places
Starting from 2023, ID cards can be replaced in other places across the country, and the processing cycle is shortened to 15 working days.
4. Precautions
| situation | Processing method |
|---|---|
| ID card is about to expire | Redeem 90 days in advance |
| Lost and replaced | Need to report the loss first and then reissue it |
| Information changes | Need to collect photos again |
5. Clarification of common misunderstandings
1. The online rumor that “you don’t need to change your ID card after the age of 46” is inaccurate. Long-term valid ID cards still need to be actively replaced when the photo is obviously aged.
2. The validity period is calculated based on the age at the time of application and will not be automatically extended due to age increase.
3. After the minor’s ID card expires, he or she must be accompanied by a guardian to renew it.
Conclusion
Understanding the validity period of your ID card can help you avoid the inconvenience caused by expired documents. Recent data from the Ministry of Public Security shows that approximately 20 million ID cards across the country need to be replaced when they expire every year. It is recommended that the public pay attention to the validity period of the ID in a timely manner and arrange the replacement time reasonably. If you need further consultation, you can call the 12345 government service hotline or log on to the official website of the local police.
check the details
check the details