El digital certificate on Android It has become an essential tool for electronic identification and conducting business with the government and private entities remotely, without the need to travel. Thanks to this certificate, you can sign procedures, submit documents, access services, file tax returns, apply for aid, and much more, directly from your mobile phone. In this comprehensive guide, you'll find everything you need to know about how to obtain, install, and maintain your digital certificate on Android, with detailed explanations, updated steps, and tips for safe and efficient use.
What is a digital certificate and what is it used for on Android?
El digital certificate It is an electronic document issued by a certifying authority, such as the National Mint and Stamp Factory (FNMT), that allows a natural or legal person to be securely and irrefutably identified online. It consists of a file containing, among other data, your name, NIF/NIE (Tax Identification Number), email address, and a cryptographic key that guarantees the identity of the holder. This certificate is legally equivalent to your handwritten signature before the government or private entities.
Its usefulness is enormous, since it makes it possible carry out procedures remotely, As:
- Digitally sign official documents (declarations, applications, etc.)
- Access the Tax Agency, Social Security, the DGT, city councils, and other state and regional agencies.
- File your tax return, apply for benefits, check your records, pay fees, apply for aid or subsidies, etc.
- Identify yourself on banking and private platforms that require high security.
Android It allows you to import and use your digital certificate for all these procedures, facilitating mobility and eliminating the need for a computer or physical presence in offices.
Types of existing digital certificates
Digital certificates can be classified according to their purpose or holder:
- Digital certificate of natural person: It is the most common, it identifies an adult citizen as an individual.
- Certificate of representation: Allows the legal representative of a company, association, or organization to act on behalf of the entity to carry out electronic procedures.
- Public sector certificate: For Public Administration employees, managed by the organization for its workers.
- Component or device certificate: Targeted at specific servers, applications, or devices to encrypt communications and ensure technical security (e.g., SSL for websites).
The one that interests you most as an Android user is the natural person certificate, essential for most personal tasks.
Is the digital certificate already installed on Android?
Before starting the application process, it's a good idea to check if you already have a digital certificate installed on your Android phone. This will save you a lot of time if you already have one activated.
- Access the Your mobile settings.
- Sign in Security (or “Lock Screen and Security” depending on the model).
- Look for the option Encryption and credentials o Security certificates.
- Within User credentials You will be able to see the list of installed digital certificates.
Si The FNMT certificate now appears or the one you need, you can now use it for electronic procedures; otherwise, you'll need to request and install it following the steps below.
How to obtain the digital certificate on Android step by step
Demand the digital certificate for Android It's been greatly simplified, and there are now several methods to verify your identity and securely download it to your phone. The most common options are:
- Through the official FNMT app:
- Download the FNMT Digital Certificate app from Google Play Store.
- Access and choose Request digital certificate.
- You must identify yourself and there are three main ways:
- Video Call Identification: Complete a facial recognition process with your ID and an agent. It costs approximately €2,99. You will receive the certificate within a few days.
- In-person identification: Make an appointment and go to a Tax Agency, Social Security, or authorized office with your ID.
- Identification with DNIe: If you have a Electronic DNI valid and your mobile phone has NFC, you can scan the chip (it will ask for the CAN and PIN of the DNIe) to download your certificate immediately. - You will receive the digital certificate and associated password in your email after verification.
- From the FNMT website on your mobile or PC:
- Access the Electronic Headquarters of the FNMT and follow the application process for individuals.
- Complete the application form and note the application code that will be sent to you by email.
- Prove your identity using the same methods: in person, video call, or with an electronic ID card.
- Download the digital certificate and install it on your mobile.
Remember that the Digital certificate for a natural person It is strictly personal, valid for any citizen of legal age and will allow you to carry out most electronic procedures from your Android.
How to download the FNMT root certificate on Android
The FNMT root certificate is what allows systems to recognize the validity of certificates issued by this authority. On older versions of Android (prior to Android 8) or on some devices, it is necessary to install this root certificate to avoid problems when accessing official portals.
- Access the section FNMT Root Certificate Downloads.
- Download the file AC RAIZ FNMT-RCM (.CER extension).
- Open the file and follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Android will ask you for a name to identify the certificate.
After installation, your phone will automatically recognize FNMT electronic certificates, and you'll avoid error messages or security alerts when interacting with official offices.
Installing a Digital Certificate on Android: Methods and Steps
Once you have the digital certificate file (.p12 or .pfx), you can install it on Android using any of these methods:
- From the email: If you received the attachment by email, download it from your mobile web browser (not from the email app) and tap the downloaded file to start the installation wizard. The system will request the associated password and ask you to assign a name to the certificate.
- From internal storage or SD card: Copy the file to the root folder of your phone or SD card. Then, go to Settings > Security > Encryption & credentials > Install certificate from storage. Select the file, enter the export password, assign a name, and select "VPN & apps."
- From Google Drive or cloud services: If you uploaded the file to Google Drive, access it from your mobile device, download it, and follow the installation process just like you would from internal storage.
- From the FNMT app: If you managed everything through the FNMT app and the process was successful, the app can install the certificate directly. Verify that it has been registered by going to Settings > Security > User Credentials.
Remember that if this is the first certificate you install, Android will ask you to create or enter a Device lock PIN, pattern, or password, since certificates require a secure environment for storage.
How to export or transfer the digital certificate to another device
Once installed, the digital certificate can be exported for backup or transfer to another computer. The file must be in .p12 or .pfx format and password-protected.
- In the FNMT app you can go to My installed certificates, select the one you want to export and generate a backup that you can share via email, Drive, Bluetooth, etc.
- The system will ask you to create a password. Keep it safe, as without it you won't be able to install the certificate on other devices.
- Remember that the responsible file and password management It is essential to prevent misuse by third parties.
Checking the installation and use of the digital certificate on Android
After installing the certificate, you can verify it's working properly by going to Settings > Security > Encryption & Credentials > User Credentials. It will appear there and be ready for use in:
- Compatible browsers (mainly Google Chrome on Android, as Firefox does not manage user certificates on Android).
- Administration Apps, such as the Tax Agency, Social Security, DGT, regional portals, etc.
- Sign electronic documents through compatible apps.
If you are asked for a digital certificate when attempting to complete a transaction, you must select the one installed on your mobile phone and authorize its use.
Troubleshooting common problems and frequent errors
Despite the simplicity of the process, some drawbacks may arise, which we describe below along with suggested solutions:
- Password error: If you get an error after entering the password while installing the certificate, make sure you enter the exact password used to export the certificate. If you don't remember it, you'll need to export the certificate again from the original device.
- Invalid file format: Android only accepts certificates in .p12 or .pfx format. If you have a .cer or .crt, it won't work as a user certificate.
- The certificate does not appear after installation: Check your secure storage and that you've selected the correct file. For some customization layers, the installation path may vary slightly.
- Browser Problems: Remember that only Chrome and derivatives typically support digital certificates on Android. Firefox doesn't include this feature for standard users.
- Errors after updating or restoring the mobile: If you wipe your data or reset your device, the certificate is deleted. Always do a Backup in a safe place.
Key security tips for your digital certificate on Android
Your digital certificate is as valuable as your ID, and protecting it is essential. Keep these security tips in mind:
- Protect your mobile with a PIN, pattern, strong password, or fingerprint. Prevent automatic unlocking or unlocking via trusted devices if you store certificates.
- Do not share your digital certificate or the export password with anyone. If you lose control over it, request revocation of the certificate from the FNMT as soon as possible.
- Keep official apps and the Android operating system up to date to avoid vulnerabilities.
- Beware of fake emails and websites. Always download the certificate from the official electronic headquarters of the FNMT.
- If your mobile phone is lost or stolen, immediately revoke your digital certificate and request a new one from the FNMT portal.
- Enable two-step verification on critical accounts (Google, Amazon, banks).
Remember that, although a digital certificate allows you to perform virtually any online transaction, it represents sensitive and personal access, so its safekeeping is the sole responsibility of the holder.
How to remove or revoke a digital certificate on Android
If you no longer need a certificate, it has expired, or you prefer to revoke it for security reasons:
- Go to Settings > Security > Encryption & Credentials > User Credentials.
- Click on the certificate you want to delete.
- Choose Delete or “Delete certificate”.
Do this only with user certificates, without touching the ones that come with the factory system, which are necessary for the proper functioning of services and apps.
For final revocation, go to the Official website of the FNMT or ask technical support for help.
Having your digital certificate on Android gives you complete autonomy to manage your procedures in the digital age., streamlining processes, saving travel time, and facilitating the digital signature of documents from anywhere. Take the time to properly configure and install your certificate, protect it with strong security measures, and always stay up-to-date on new developments and best practices. If you follow the steps described in this guide, you can take full advantage of all the benefits of electronic identification from your Android phone with complete confidence.