There are a lot of people that ask about what's a national identity card and to where one will be able to request for it. The national identity card is considered to be an official document which has been issued by the French Administration through a consulate or embassy if you are ever living abroad. This will help prove your identity and also your nationality. This actually is a secure document that comes with personal information which will help in protecting it from fraud. The national ID card in fact is free and valid or good for 10 years.

 

Even when you could travel to different countries with the ID card with lecteur code-barres, it's not a permit to travel. You can however use it for you to travel within EU and to some countries as well. You may however do checks at the French Foreign Office.

 

For individuals that are under 18 travelling with their carte d'identification without any legal guardian or parents, it is essential to have an authorization when leaving the country. The consulate will be the one to deliver the authorization.

 

At the time of the application, the applicant has to be come in person to collect their ID card and should return the previous one because this is owned by the French State.

 

Children who are also under 18 doesn't need to come in person, but the parents or legal guardian should bring their family book or documentation that will prove the parental authority.

 

When you have failed to collect your ID card within 3 months of its scheduled date, it is going to be destroyed.

 

A word of advice that you need to follow is that you should check as to which documents are needed for you to be able to enter and stay in your destination country. You will be able to find the information regarding this matter at the embassy or the consulate of the specific country in France. There in fact are some countries that in fact requires passports to be valid for a number of months after your return.

 

Only the valid National Identity Card is needed in traveling within EU or the European Union.

 

It is a good idea that you keep copies of the documents at home and get at least 2 identity photos.

 

In the case where you have lost your passport or national identity card or it was stolen during your trip from abroad, it is important to first make a statement at a local police station. Based through the statement given, the consulate of France or Embassy will draw up the emergency passport or pass which depends however on the case. It is essential to be aware that there are certain fees that will apply and formality is going to take time. Learn more about ID cards at http://www.dictionary.com/browse/identification-card.