Digital Certificate – Validity And Renewal

Digital certificates have a limited validity, but not all have the same, it depends on the class of certificate that you downloaded.

You can check through your browser when the certificate that you installed will expire and it´s easiest if you renew before this date, as then you can use the presently installed certificate for ID purposes in the process. That is, if you have not renewed it before and if you renew from the same supplier. If you renew for the 2nd time, you need to aply for a new certificate instead. This has to do with the law on digital certificates that obliges private individuals to have their identy accredited at least once every 8 years. We offer information from the FNMT website, as that is the most widely used and we explain the process of installing based on their information as well in the file in our Library, Certificates Section.

The FNMT has sent out emails to those that have installed a certificate from their website, to announce an update in the software that offers more security to users. You have the choice to either download a new certificate or wait till yours expires naturally. The new certificates have a validity period of 4 years.

Info on how to check validity date for Firefox users

HERE

and for Google Chrome users

HERE

Alternatively, you can verify the status of your certificate, useful for Internet Explorer users for example, as the results of this request will also include the validity period of your certificate.

VERIFY STATUS CERTIFICATE

Instructions how to renew HERE.

When you can renew, LINK.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.