Identity card; blocking and unblocking the online ID function in the event of loss

You can have the online ID function of your ID card blocked either by calling the telephone blocking hotline or at the ID card authority. If you find your ID card again, you can have it unblocked at the ID card office.

The ID card holder must immediately report the loss (loss, theft) of the ID card to block the online ID card function to the blocking hotline or the ID card authority in order to rule out misuse (see "Related topics"). It is important to note that although nobody can read your data without your PIN, blocking ensures that any attempted misuse is detected immediately.

The easiest way to block is to call the telephone blocking hotline on 116 116 (free of charge from the German landline and mobile network). From abroad, the hotline can be reached for a fee via +49 116 116 or via +49 (0) 30 40 50 40 50. You will need the blocking information specified in the PIN letter, in particular the blocking password, to block the function.

If you would like to have the online ID card function blocked by the authorities or if you no longer have the blocking password required for blocking by telephone, you can also have it blocked directly at your local ID card authority.

If you find your ID card again, you can have the online ID card function unblocked at the ID card authority. This can only be done in person. It is not possible to unblock it by telephone.

• To block the card, you will need the blocking information specified in the PIN letter, in particular the blocking password. If you do not have the PIN letter and do not know the blocking password, please contact your local ID card authority.

If the eID function is blocked via the hotline, you are also obliged to report the loss to the ID card authority (see "Related topics").