F2 | Digital ID card

Here you will learn what a digital ID card is, and how to use it securely.

• 1. What is a digital ID card?

  You can download the official app free of charge to your smartphone or tablet through either the Play Store or Apple Store by searching for “AusweisApp.”

  Got it!

• 2. What features does the card offer?

  

  Once you’ve synced the AusweisApp or card reader with your digital ID card, you can

  • register or change your place of residence
  • apply for BAföG and check its current status,
  • manage your pension account with the German Pension Insurance,
  • check your current points balance with the Federal Motor Transport Authority or
  • have your data electronically read and entered at banks or hotels on site.

  It is best to also find out from your local town hall what additional options your digital identity card offers. In addition to services at the town hall, you can also use your digital ID card with companies such as Deutsche Post or Deutsche Bahn, to register for the Postident procedure, or to set up direct debit payments.

  Got it!

• 3. What do I have to consider when using the card?

  Certain features of the digital ID card do not work everywhere in Germany yet, but its use will steadily expand in the coming years. If you want to use your digital ID card now, you should consider the following points:

  Disconnect

  You should disconnect your ID card from your smartphone or card reader after each session.

  Latest updates and antivirus protection

  As always, it’s important to install all updates and keep your antivirus protection up to date.

  Report lost or stolen cards

  If you lose your identity card, report the loss immediately at the town hall or a police station. Your online ID card will then be blocked to prevent misuse.

  How secure is the digital ID card?

  It is safe to use. You have control over who can receive your personal data, and can directly see who is requesting your data, and why it is needed. Only by entering your six-digit PIN do you agree to the transmission of your data, which, in combination with your ID, provides a two-factor authentication. Additionally, the chip on your ID card checks whether the provider of the online service has the state authorization to request your data at all.

  Got it!