Quick answer: The Dominican ID card (cédula) is issued by the Junta Central Electoral (JCE), not the consulate. From the US you apply at the JCE's offices abroad or at events organized with the consulates. Without a valid cédula you can't get a passport, vote or sign many documents.
Where it's done & key facts
| Issued by | Junta Central Electoral (JCE) |
|---|---|
| Where from the US | JCE offices abroad and consulate events |
| How | In person: photo, fingerprints, signature |
| First cédula | From age 18, with a Dominican birth record |
| US-born children | Nationality recognition and Dominican birth record first |
| Official site | jce.gob.do |
| Official site | jce.gob.do |
Three different situations
| Your case | What you need |
|---|---|
| Renewal or replacement | Previous cédula (even expired). If your marital status or name changed, the record proving it. |
| First cédula, born in the DR | Updated Dominican birth record and photo ID. |
| US-born child of Dominicans | Nationality recognition and transcription of the birth record first; then the cédula. See dual citizenship. |
General steps
- Check jce.gob.do for the nearest office or event and whether you need an appointment.
- Request an updated birth record if there's any doubt about your data (see birth certificate).
- Go in person with originals; biometrics are captured.
- Receive the cédula or receipt, per current procedure.
Common mistakes
- Asking the consulate for the cédula when the JCE has its own office or event.
- Bringing a birth record with name or date errors: it must be corrected at the JCE first.
- Applying for a passport before the cédula is up to date.
Also on True Multiservices:
Want help with this procedure?
- We review your documents before you go to the agency.
- We translate, notarize and apostille what's needed.
- We tell you exactly where to go, what to bring and in what order.
- Service in Spanish and English.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Dominican consulate issue the cédula?
The JCE issues it. Some consulates host JCE windows or events, but the responsible agency is the JCE.
Can I vote from the US?
Yes. Dominicans with a valid cédula registered on the overseas voter roll can vote in presidential and overseas deputy elections.
What if my birth record has an error?
It must be corrected at the JCE before the cédula. We can help organize the file and coordinate with professionals in the DR.
This guide is informational and does not replace official information or legal advice. Requirements, fees and hours may change: always confirm with the institution before you go. Information verified in November 2026. True Multiservices is a private, independent business, not the consulate or a government agency.
