However, the prerequisites for the online application are the new electronic ID card, which must be activated for the online ID function, and a suitable card reader. According to the Federal Office of Justice (BfJ), this allows the person making the application to be clearly identified.

According to the BfJ, foreign citizens who do not have a German identity card can use the corresponding function of their electronic residence permit in the same way.

In addition to certificates of good conduct, information from the central trade register can also be requested via the BfJ's new online portal. Such information is often required by companies applying for public contracts in tendering procedures.

The certificate of good conduct shows any criminal convictions, insofar as they must be included in a certificate of good conduct in accordance with the Federal Central Criminal Register Act. The information from the Central Trade Register is an important tool for assessing the reliability of tradespeople.

The online portal is not intended to replace the traditional application process: Applications can still be submitted in person at the town hall.

As with applications at the Citizens' Center, a fee of 13 euros per certificate of good conduct is also charged for online applications. This can be paid in the online portal using a major credit card or by bank transfer via "Giropay". The certificates of good conduct are printed on special green paper and sent by post.