Documents

New ID card

The new ID card was launched in Germany on 1 November 2010.
This card can do everything the old ID card could - and much more.

As a handy document in credit-card format, the new ID card will continue to be used as so-called photo ID. But for those citizens who wish to make use of its additional functions, transactions on the Internet are set to become more convenient and secure. That's because the information printed on the ID card is also digitally stored on the chip integrated into the card. For the first time ever, the holder can use the new ID card to prove his identity on the Internet. At the same time, however, he continues to have full control over the data. Apart from the online ID function, the holder of the new ID card can also elect to use the qualified electronic signature (QES). When it comes to the sovereign ID function, citizens can choose whether or not to have their fingerprints stored on the chip in the card. This establishes an even stronger link between the document and its holder.

Bundesdruckerei is a one-stop shop for comprehensive security know-how for the new ID card:

• The company produces the new ID card, one of the most secure ID documents in the world.
• It issues authorisation certificates for online service providers.
• The company operates its own eID Service at its high-security computer centres for the authentication of online service providers.

To find out more about the new document, go to: www.personalausweisportal.de.