Personalausweise

Personalausweis (plural: Personalausweise) is the national identity card of Germany and a term used similarly in Austria for a comparable document. It is issued to citizens as an official proof of identity and, within the European Union, as a travel document when a passport is not required. The card is commonly used for everyday identification and for access to various services.

Modern German ID cards contain a biometric chip with the holder’s data, a photo, and security features. The chip enables electronic identification (eID) and, in some configurations, digital signing. Use of the eID function is protected by a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and, for higher security, reader-based authentication. The card thus supports both offline identification and online authentication with designated government and private services.

Usage and scope: The Personalausweis is used to prove identity in interactions with authorities, banks, employers, and other institutions. It also enables online authentication with e-government portals and selected private services. For travel, the card is accepted within the European Union and some neighboring regions, while travel to many non-EU countries still requires a passport.

Issuance and security: The card is issued under national law by federal or local authorities. Validity periods depend on age and issuing policy, with renewals required periodically. If lost or stolen, replacement procedures apply. Data protection and security standards govern the handling of personal data stored on the chip and during online authentication.