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Apply for a new ID card if you lose it

Please note in particular our information under:
  • Service description

    You can report the loss of your identity card

    • at any identity card authority, usually the local citizens' office, or
    • the police.

    You must also apply for a new ID card if you

    • are over 16 years old, are registered in Germany and
    • do not have a valid passport document, i.e. a passport or temporary passport.

    You can apply for a new ID card at the Citizens' Registration Office at your main place of residence.

    All ID cards automatically have the online ID function. This function is generally activated on ID cards issued from July 2017. This allows you to identify yourself to authorities and companies for online services with a high level of trust as soon as you have set a six-digit PIN of your choice. You can use the online ID card after your 16th birthday.

    When you apply for your ID card, the prints of your two index fingers are stored on the chip of the card. Children under the age of 6 are excluded from this regulation.

    In the event that you find your ID card again, you must report this personally to your ID card authority. Only then will an entry be deleted by the police.

    If you have not applied for a new ID card, you can continue to use your ID card that has been reported as recovered within Germany without restriction until it expires.

  • Prerequisites

    • You have lost your identity card and have reported this accordingly.
  • What documents are required?

    • Biometric digital passport photo: taken on site at the authority or by a registered domestic photo service provider, e.g. a photographer
    • if available and not yet validated: passport
    • if no valid passport is available: Birth certificate or marriage certificate
    • if available: police report of loss
    • for children under the age of 16: if necessary, a declaration of consent from the parent with custody who is not present
      • If there is only one parent or legal guardian, additional proof of custody
    • if available: valid or already expired children's passport
    Special information for - City of Idar-Oberstein



    In individual cases, it may be necessary to submit further documents (e.g. to prove marital status or nationality).
    If you have any doubts about which documents to bring, we advise you to contact us by telephone on 06781-64 3800

  • Legal basis

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