Identity card - apply for issue due to loss

Have you lost your identity card or has it been stolen?

Then you are obliged to inform the identity card authority (citizens' office) as soon as possible. You must also inform the identity card authority if you find the document you thought you had lost.

Note: If your ID card has been stolen, report the loss to the police as soon as possible.

You must apply for a new ID card in person and bring the necessary documents with you.

You can also fulfil your identification obligation by holding a valid passport. If you do not have a valid passport, you must apply for a new identity card.

Tip: You can apply for a temporary ID card at the same time. This is possible if you already need an identity document for the period until the new ID card is issued. The temporary ID card is valid for a maximum of three months. You must return it as soon as you have received your new ID card.

Blocking the online ID function if your ID card is lost or stolen

If your ID card is lost or stolen, you must have the online ID function blocked as soon as possible. Blocking ensures that any attempted misuse is recognised immediately.

It is important to note that nobody can read your data without your PIN.

The easiest way to block is via the telephone blocking hotline. This is available around the clock, 7 days a week, on the toll-free number 116 116. From abroad, dial 0049-116 116 or 0049-30-40 50 40 50 (chargeable). Please note that some countries use a different country code for Germany.

Please have your blocking password, which you were given in the letter you received, ready for the call.

If you have lost your blocking password, you can obtain it from the ID card authority where you applied for your ID card. For Security reasons, you must appear in person and prove your identity.

The online ID card function will be blocked immediately. You will not be able to use it for the time being.

If you find your ID card again, you can have the block cancelled by your ID card authority.

Please note: If the eID function is blocked via the hotline, you are also obliged to report the loss to the relevant authority.

However, you can also have it blocked directly by the competent or issuing ID card authority. They will initiate the blocking immediately. They will also inform the police about the loss of your ID card.

Do you also use the electronic signature on your lost ID card?
Then you must have the signature function blocked separately. To do this, you must contact the provider from whom you purchased the signature certificate.