Have an identity card with you: Is this compulsory?

Do you or do you not have to carry your ID card with you at all times? There are always heated debates about these questions. We clear them up!

Idee für mich
via Tanja Seiffert
06/12/2018, 13:47
Personalkontrolle: Muss man den Personalausweis dabei haben oder nicht?© iStock
Identity check: Do you have to have your ID card with you or not?

If you want to go on vacation, you always have an identity card or passport with you. This goes without saying.

From the age of 16, you must have an identity card

But what about in everyday life? Do I have to have an identity card with me? No, you don't have to. But you must have one from the age of 16. And: If you are stopped and cannot identify yourself when asked by the police, you can expect a few inconveniences. The police can take us to the police station to establish our identity and take our personal details.

No valid ID? That could be expensive?

Or they could escort us straight home. I wonder what your neighbor will say. If you can't produce a valid ID card, you could be fined up to 3,000 euros for this offense.