Isikutõend

Isikutõend is a term used to refer to an official document issued by the state that proves a person’s identity. It encompasses documents carried by individuals to confirm who they are in both everyday and official interactions, with use in dealings with public authorities and private entities. The concept covers various forms of identification, including national identity cards, passports, and other recognized identity documents, depending on the country’s system.

In Estonia, the common national form of isikutõend is the isikutunnistus (ID card), which also functions as a digital identity token. This card allows not only physical identification but also access to a wide range of electronic government services and digital signing of documents. Other commonly accepted forms of isikutõend, such as passports or driving licenses, may also be used as identity documents in many contexts, though their primary purposes differ (for travel or driving).

Issuance and regulation of isikutõend are the responsibility of the state. To obtain an isikutõend, a person must prove their identity and, where applicable, citizenship or legal residence. The document is issued for a defined validity period and must be carried by the holder. If lost or stolen, it must be reported and replaced. In many systems, the isikutõend may be revoked or suspended for security reasons.

Modern isikutõend often includes features for security and privacy, such as a photograph, data about the holder, a unique identification number, and security elements. Many contemporary isikutõendid incorporate an embedded chip and cryptographic keys, enabling electronic authentication, digital signatures, and secure access to online services.