OnlineAusweisfunktionen

OnlineAusweisfunktionen (often referred to as the online-Ausweisfunktion) are features of the German electronic identity card (Personalausweis) that enable online identification, authentication, and in some cases digital signing for internet services. They rely on the card’s embedded cryptographic certificates and keys, which are protected by a PIN and accessed via a card reader or NFC-enabled device.

The core functions include identification, authentication, and digital signing. For identification or authentication, a service challenges the user, who activates the eID function, confirms with their PIN, and uses the card to sign the challenge. The service verifies the signature against the card’s certificate to confirm the user’s identity or authorize access. Digital signing allows creating legally binding signatures on documents or forms, subject to applicable legal requirements and user consent.

Use of the OnlineAusweisfunktionen is common for e-government services, but also extends to other public or private sector portals that support eID-based login. To use them, a holder needs a valid Personalausweis, a compatible card reader or NFC-capable device, and software such as AusweisApp2 or an integrated browser solution. Data that can be transmitted during online identification is controlled and limited to what the service requires, with privacy protections in place.

Security and privacy considerations include cryptographic protections, user PIN verification, and the need for user consent for data sharing. Limitations include hardware requirements, browser or software compatibility, and varying support across online services. Over time, the ecosystem has evolved to improve accessibility, interoperability, and user experience while maintaining strong identity assurance.