For residents of Valencia, the National Identity Document (DNI) is more than just a piece of plastic; it is the key to daily life. From boarding a flight at Manises Airport to signing a rental contract or visiting a bank, a valid DNI is indispensable. However, the process of renewing or issuing this document at the Comisaría de la Policía Nacional Hospital/Valencia can be a daunting experience if you aren’t prepared.
Located in the heart of the city (Calle de l’Hospital), this specific office is one of the busiest in the Valencian Community. A single oversight in your preparation can result in a rejected application, forcing you to wait weeks for a new opening. To ensure your visit is successful, here are the five most common mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.
1. Waiting Until the Last Minute (The “Expiration Trap”)
The most frequent mistake is waiting for the DNI to expire before seeking an appointment. In Valencia, especially during peak seasons like summer or before Christmas, the “Cita Previa” system can be fully booked for weeks.
The Fix: Did you know you can renew your DNI up to 180 days before it expires? If you are also renewing a passport, you can do so 90 days in advance. Don’t wait until you have a trip planned or a legal deadline looming. Check your card today, and if it expires within the next six months, visit pedircitasdni.es to secure your slot at the Hospital/Valencia office immediately.
2. Bringing the Wrong Type of Photo
It sounds simple, but “photo rejection” is a leading cause of failed appointments at the Hospital/Valencia station. Many people bring photos that are too old, or they use “selfies” printed at home that do not meet the strict Ministry of the Interior standards.
The Fix: Your photo must be recent, in color, and measure exactly 32×26 millimeters. The background must be plain white and uniform. Avoid wearing hats, headbands, or large earrings. Most importantly, ensure your hair does not cover your eyes. While there are photo booths near the Calle de l’Hospital area, it is much safer to go to a professional photographer beforehand who knows the specific “DNI requirements.”
3. Forgetting the “Empadronamiento” Certificate
If you have moved house since your last DNI was issued, you cannot simply tell the officer your new address. You must prove it. Many citizens arrive at the Valencia Hospital office expecting the police to have access to the City Council’s (Ayuntamiento) database, but these systems are often not integrated in real-time.
The Fix: If your address has changed, you must bring an original Certificado de Empadronamiento. Crucially, this document must have been issued within the last three months. If it is older, it is invalid for the DNI process. If your address remains the same as on your current DNI, you do not need this document.
4. Payment Confusion: Cash vs. Card
The current fee for a standard DNI renewal is 12 Euros (as of 2024-2025). A common mistake is arriving without the exact change or assuming the office functions like a retail store. While many offices are upgrading to include POS terminals for credit cards, technical glitches happen, and some specific stations still prioritize cash or pre-payment.
The Fix: Exact Change: If paying in person, bring the exact 12 Euros in cash. It speeds up the process and avoids issues if the office is low on coins.
- Online Payment: You can pay the fee online via the official booking portal using a digital certificate or Cl@ve.
- Exemptions: If you are a member of a “Familia Numerosa” (Large Family), the process is free. However, you must bring your valid Large Family Certificate to prove it. Without the physical document, you will be required to pay the 12 Euro fee.
5. Underestimating the “Valencia Hospital” Logistics
The Valencia Hospital office (Comisaría de l’Hospital) is located in a high-traffic, central area (CP 46001). One of the biggest mistakes is not accounting for the specific logistics of this neighborhood.
Conclusion
Renewing your DNI at the Valencia Hospital office doesn’t have to be a stressful event. By booking in advance, bringing the correct 32x26mm photo, updating your empadronamiento if necessary, and carrying the exact 12 Euro fee, you can finish the entire process in under 20 minutes.
For a full breakdown of the office hours, contact phone numbers, and a direct link to the booking system, make sure to visit the DNI Hospital/Valencia specialized guide. Being informed is the best way to ensure your identity documentation remains up to date without the headache.
