All Germans who have reached the age of 16 are subject to the ID card requirement. A new ID card must be applied for in good time before it expires.
Identity card
The ID card is an identification document for use within Germany. It is also valid for crossing borders within European countries. It is not valid for travel to countries where a passport or visa is required. In international use, passports are the most common and recognized document for crossing borders. Against this background, the German federal identity card is merely a substitute for a passport. You can find the relevant information in the travel information of the Federal Foreign Office.
The following documents are required for the application:
1 current digital biometric photo (not older than 1 year)
Previous identity card or other official photo ID (e.g. passport)
If the personal data in the population register is incomplete or incorrect, a civil status certificate (birth or marriage certificate) must be submitted.
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A personal appearance is required, as your signature will be sealed into the ID card. (Please make an appointment with the BürgerCenter (as of 09.02.2026)). The application form cannot be completed in advance as it is printed out directly at the BürgerCenter. The fee is 46 euros; 27.60 euros for persons under 24 years of age.
Anyone applying for a passport or ID card must present a "current photograph". The photo is used to identify the document holder by comparing his/her face with the picture. To put it simply, the person must be clearly recognizable in the photo for the period of validity, if possible. As a rule, a photograph is no longer considered current if it is more than one year old.
Young people who are required to have ID may apply for an ID card without the involvement of a parent or guardian. The collection can be carried out by an authorized person. (After making an appointment (as of 09.02.2026). The collection takes place at the information desk of the BürgerCenter. When collecting your ID card, you must hand in any ID cards still in your possession, as these are the property of the Federal Republic of Germany (§ 4 Para. 2 PAuswG).
If an ID card is lost, the loss must be reported immediately to the ID card authority. If the loss is due to theft, a report must also be made to the police. A previous ID card cannot be extended; a new ID card with a new picture must be applied for.
Failure to possess a valid document is an administrative offense that can be punished with a fine.
For people who are likely to be permanently accommodated in hospitals, nursing homes or similar institutions or who are no longer permanently involved in legal activities, an exemption from the ID card requirement can be applied for.
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