The temporary ID card allows you to bridge the gap until a regular ID card is issued.
Your temporary ID card is valid for a maximum of 3 months.
You must return the temporary ID card when you receive your new regular ID card.
Starting May 1, 2025, we will only be allowed to use digital photos for passport and ID card applications that are taken at a certified photo studio or drugstore (where you will receive a code) or directly at a self-service terminal at a municipal office. These terminals are currently available at the Citizen Service Center in the Stadthaus on Kaiserstrasse and at the local administrative offices in Altstadt and Hartenberg-Münchfeld.
Photos taken at the Citizen Service Center can be retrieved by any local administration office within 14 days. Photos taken at the Altstadt and Hartenberg-Münchfeld local administration offices are available for only 96 hours and are then automatically deleted.
- German citizens aged 16 and older are required to have an ID card. An exception applies if you have a valid passport.
- The temporary ID card is valid for a maximum of 3 months.
- When issuing the temporary ID card, we must collect your old ID card.
Application:
- You must apply in person, as you are required to sign the application.
- Children aged 10 and older must also sign their ID card in person.
Children and adolescents under 16 years of age:
- They can apply for an ID card. This is necessary, for example, for travel within the EU.
- Three months before turning 16, an application can be submitted without a parent or legal guardian being present.
Children and adolescents under 15 years and 9 months of age:
- Both legal guardians must give their consent.
- It is not mandatory for both parents to be present when applying. However, we do require a written consent form from the parent who is not present.
We will issue the temporary ID card immediately.
The temporary ID card does not support online functions.
You can apply for a temporary ID card under the following conditions:
- You are a German citizen
- You are registered in Germany
- You do not have a valid ID card
- You urgently need a valid identification document.
You must apply for the temporary ID card in person.
- Apply for the temporary ID card at the Citizens’ Office in your primary place of residence.
- If you do not apply for your temporary ID card at your primary residence, you must have a valid reason. Please contact the Citizens’ Office of your choice to find out whether they will accept your reason.
- The Citizens’ Office will usually issue the temporary ID card to you immediately.
Note: The temporary ID card is an exception. If you wish to apply for it twice in a row, the competent authority may refuse your request.
