Personalausweisgesetz

The Personalausweisgesetz is the German federal law governing the issuance and use of the German identity card, known as the Personalausweis. This law establishes the legal framework for this official identification document, which is mandatory for all German citizens aged 16 and over, although its issuance is compulsory only from the age of 16.

The Personalausweisgesetz outlines the requirements for obtaining an identity card, including proof of identity and German citizenship. It specifies the personal data that can be stored on the card, such as name, date and place of birth, nationality, and address. The law also details the security features of the card to prevent forgery and misuse, including an electronic chip that can store biometric data like fingerprints and a digital photo.

Furthermore, the Personalausweisgesetz regulates the use of the electronic identification function (eID function) of the identity card, allowing individuals to authenticate themselves online with service providers. It sets rules for data protection and the rights of the cardholder, including the ability to disable the eID function. The law is periodically updated to incorporate new security technologies and address evolving digital identification needs.