Identification card
Official photo ID for citizens aged 16 and older.
How to proceed
- 1
Appointment at the Department of Citizen Services
Book online or by phone.
- 2
Appear in person
Applications can only be submitted in person.
- 3
Pickup in 2–4 weeks
In person as well.
Required documents
- Biometric passport photoMandatory
- Old ID card
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
37 € (ab 24 J.), 22,80 € (unter 24 J.)
Processing time
approx. 2 weeks
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Common mistakes
- • Non-biometric passport photo
- • Proof of residence is missing from the initial registration
Common reasons for rejection
- • Identity not conclusively established
- • Residence not specified
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
All German citizens aged 16 and older who have their primary residence in Germany.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 weeks
Success rate
approx. 99.8 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Non-biometric passport photo
- •Proof of residence is missing from the initial registration
Common reasons for rejection
- •Identity not conclusively established
- •Residence not specified
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Everything about Identification card
Related services
Questions & Answers
How much does an ID card cost?▼
€37 (ages 24 and older), €22.80 (under 24).
Freshness & source
- Maintenance
- Continuously reviewed & updated
- Data quality
- 100 %
Latest content changes
- Gebühren 37 € bestätigt
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Identification card by city
Regional processing times, responsibilities and specifics.