Apply for exemption from the identification requirement as a permanently disabled person who cannot move around in public

If you are unable to move around alone in public due to a disability, you may be exempt from the requirement to have an ID card.

If you are unable to move around in public on your own due to a disability, you can be exempted from the obligation to have an ID card. This is the case, for example, if you are no longer able to leave the house on your own due to a disability.

You can revoke the exemption at any time. Once you have been exempted from the ID card requirement, you can no longer use your ID card as an official identity document.

If the presentation of a valid identity card is required for identity purposes or is customary in everyday life, the official certificate of exemption does not replace a required identity card.

An identity document is always required when traveling abroad. The person concerned can apply for a new ID card at any time after the exemption from the ID card requirement has been granted. The letter from the authorities stating that the ID card requirement has been waived should then be returned to the issuing authority.

Please contact the identity card authority at the applicant's main place of residence.

• written application
• if available: Your old identity card or your old passport
• Proof that you cannot participate in public life alone, for example by a certificate from your family doctor, hospital, nursing home or nursing service
• if you are incapable of acting or giving consent: the original certified power of attorney
• in the case of an application by a representative:
  • Proof of power of representation, for example by means of a power of attorney or a guardian's identity card
  • ID document of the representative, e.g. identity card or passport
• In the case of persons under guardianship, the guardian's identity card and the identity card/passport of the guardian should be presented. The guardian's identity card must include at least the area of responsibility for determining residence.

Forms available: Yes
Written form required: Yes
Informal application possible: Yes
Personal appearance required: No

Online services available: No

• You must have German citizenship.
• You must be at least 16 years old.
• You cannot move alone in public due to a permanent disability.
• You must be registered with your main residence in your municipality.

Complaint to the superior authority, alternatively to the Ministry of the Interior of the country.

You can apply for exemption from the ID card requirement in writing or by visiting the ID card authority.

If the relevant ID card authority offers an online service for exemption from the ID card requirement, you can submit the application via this service.

Fee free of charge