Lost ID card – What to do? Your comprehensive guide
Losing your ID card can be a frightening experience and requires quick and considered action. This guide will take you step by step through the process of reporting the loss of your ID card and applying for a new one.
1. Keep calm
It is understandable that losing your ID card can be a real shock. Try to stay calm and act prudently. Panic can cause you to overlook important steps or make rash decisions.
2. Tracing the place of loss
Think carefully about the last place you saw your ID card. Return to these places and carefully search all possible hiding places. Ask people who were there if they saw or found the ID card.
3. Contact the police
If the ID card cannot be found, you should report the loss to the local police station immediately. A loss report is important to prevent misuse and may be required when applying for a new ID card.
4. Report the loss to the ID card authority
Contact the ID card authority responsible for your place of residence. This may be the municipal authority, the city council or the administrative union. Report the loss and request the blocking of the online ID function if it is activated.
5. Block the online ID function
If your online ID function is activated, have it blocked immediately to prevent misuse. You can arrange for the blocking directly with the ID card authority.
6. Apply for a new ID card
To apply for a new ID card, you must appear in person at the relevant authority and bring the required documents with you. The necessary documents include:
- Proof of loss: Proof of registration with the police.
- Valid passport or birth certificate: For identification.
- Biometric photograph: Current photograph measuring 45 x 35 mm, in portrait format and without a frame.
7. Apply for a provisional identity card
If you urgently need an identity document, you can apply for a temporary ID card. This is valid for a maximum of three months and must be returned as soon as you have received your new ID card.
8. Find the relevant authority
The relevant authority for issuing a new ID card is:
local/city government
joint administration or the relevant ID card authority for your place of residence
9. Understand the process
The process of applying for a new ID card includes:
- Personal interview: The application must be made in person.
- Submission of documents: Please bring all the required documents with you.
- Production and delivery: The new ID card is produced centrally by the Bundesdruckerei (federal printing office) in Berlin and sent to the authority.
10. Receive secret number and blocking password
When your new ID card is issued, you will receive a secret number (transport PIN), a personal unblocking key (PUK) and a blocking password by post. This information is important for using the electronic proof of identity and must be stored securely.
11. Use the telephone hotline to block your card
If you suspect that you have lost your ID card, you can use the telephone hotline to block your card:
- Call number: 116 116 (toll-free, available 24/7)
- Requirement: Have your blocking password ready, which was sent to you in the PIN letter.
12. Note deadlines
Report the loss of your ID card as soon as you notice it. The faster you act, the lower the risk of misuse.
13. Place a wanted ad
Use platforms like suchen.expert to place an ad about the loss of your ID card. Provide the following information:
- Name: Your name and, if applicable, the name of your child
- Place and date of loss: Where and when the ID was lost
- Description: Details of the ID (ID number, appearance)
- Contact information: Your phone number and email address
14. Check suchen.expert regularly
Visit suchen.expert regularly to ensure that no new ads regarding your lost ID card have been posted.
15. Preventive measures to avoid future losses
To avoid future losses, follow these tips:
Secure storage: Keep your ID card in a fixed place, e.g. in a safe or locked cabinet.
Digital protection: Only use the online ID function when absolutely necessary and deactivate it when not in use.
Regular checks: Regularly check that your ID card is in its place.
Identification aids: Carry a copy of your ID card separately from the original in case it gets lost.
Conclusion
Losing your ID card requires quick and considered action to prevent misuse and to obtain a new ID. Keep calm, report the loss to the police and the relevant authority, and apply for a new or temporary ID. Use platforms such as suchen.expert to place an advert and support your search. By taking preventive measures, you can avoid future losses and protect your personal data.
For more information and support, visit suchen.expert or contact your local ID card office directly.
The displayed information comes from publicly available sources and was last updated on 04/10/24. All retrievable content and explanations are non-binding and do not constitute legal advice. The Suchen Expert platform does not guarantee and is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of the published information.
