IDdokumendid

IDdokumendid are official documents issued by governments or recognized authorities to prove an individual’s identity and, in many cases, to grant access to rights, services, or travel. They serve as a portable, verifiable record used in daily life, administration, and international travel.

Common types include personal identity cards, passports, driving licenses, birth or citizenship certificates, and residence permits. Some countries issue national ID cards that function as both identification and keys to digital services. Features typically include the holder’s name, date of birth, nationality, a photograph, a unique document number, and issue and expiry dates. Many documents incorporate security elements such as holograms, microprinting, and machine-readable zones; newer versions often embed biometric data or an electronic chip for authentication and digital signing.

Digital and interoperable variations are increasingly common. In some systems, physical IDs serve as a gateway to electronic identity (eID) or online services via mobile or online platforms, enabling secure login, digital signatures, and automated verification across public and private sectors. Estonia, for example, uses ID cards with digital identity and signing capabilities, complemented by mobile and remote authentication methods.

Issuance and use are governed by national laws and administrative procedures. Applicants typically provide identity and citizenship documents, pay a fee, and may need photos or biometric data. Documents are issued by designated government offices and subject to revocation if lost, stolen, or compromised. Standards for ID documents cover physical size, machine readability, and security features to facilitate international recognition and travel.