From December 4th onwards, the online ID function or BundID will be required for many applications
Anyone in Darmstadt wishing to handle official business online will need to adjust to new access rules starting Friday, December 4, 2026. Most of the registration office's digital services will then only be accessible using the online ID function (eID) or a BundID account. Submitting applications by email will no longer be possible. To support citizens during this transition, the City of Darmstadt is offering a free information session on November 20.
With this changeover, the registration office is introducing nationally established digital identification procedures. This is intended to ensure that applicants can be clearly and legally identified when using online services.
Which online applications are affected?
Digital identification will be required for numerous services offered by the registration office in the future. These include, among other things, deregistering a residence when moving abroad, deregistering a secondary residence, and various requests for information and certificates.
The following online services require identification with eID or BundID:
- Deregistration for moving abroad
- Deregistration of a secondary residence
- Self-disclosure
- Setting up information and transmission blocks
- Electronic registration certificate
- Extended registration certificate
The electronic registration certificate is also listed in the city's notification as a service with identification via BundID.
The following are still possible without online ID function or Federal ID:
- Reporting lost documents
- Status query of official documents
- Exemption from the obligation to identify oneself
No corresponding digital identification is required for these services, even after the switchover.
Applications via email are no longer required
With the introduction of the new identification procedures, the previous application process also changes.
To ensure a uniform security standard for applications, they can no longer be submitted via email.
Those who neither wish nor are able to use the online ID function or BundID still have the option of handling their affairs in person at the registration office.
Both online bookable appointments and open consultation hours are available.
Free help on November 20th at the Luisencenter
To make it easier for citizens to get started with digital procedures, the registration office is holding an information evening on Friday, November 20, 2026.
From 5 pm to 7 pm, employees of the registration office will be available in the foyer of the Citizens' and Public Order Office on the second floor of the Luisencenter to answer questions and provide practical assistance.
On-site, they help to set up the online ID function, create a BundID account, or reset a forgotten or unknown PIN.
The services offered are free of charge. Prior registration is not required.
Please bring the following to the information session:
- Identity card, eID card or electronic residence permit
- Smartphone, if available
- PIN for the online ID function, if known
This is how the online ID function works
The online ID function allows for secure identification when using digital administrative services.
This is done using the electronic chip in the identity card, the eID card for citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area, or the electronic residence permit.
The application requires the free AusweisApp, a smartphone with NFC function or a suitable card reader, and a self-chosen six-digit PIN.
For identity cards issued since July 2017, the online identification function is automatically activated.
What is the BundID?
The BundID is a central user account for digital administrative services provided by the federal government, states, and municipalities.
With such an account, citizens can use various government services online. Messages and official notices from the authorities can also be received via the associated electronic mailbox.
The city recommends setting up the BundID account using the online ID function. This ensures the account achieves the highest level of trust and can be used for administrative services that require particularly secure identification.
Forgot your PIN? Here are your options
Anyone who no longer knows the PIN for their online ID function or needs to set up a new PIN can contact the registration office.
The city also points to a digital PIN reset and activation service for identity cards and eID cards.
A PIN reset letter can be ordered free of charge via this service. It will be sent to the registered address and delivered personally via POSTIDENT.
This online service is not available for electronic residence permits.
Order a PIN reset letter: https://www.pin-ruecksetzbrief-bestellen.de/
If citizens have questions about the changeover, they can contact the registration office by telephone on 06151 115 or by email at meldeamt@darmstadt.de
The most important information
Change: New identification requirement for most online services of the Darmstadt registration office
Start: Friday, December 4, 2026
In the future, an online ID function (eID) or Federal ID will be required, depending on the service.
Applications via email: No longer possible after the changeover
Still without eID or BundID: reporting lost documents, checking the status of official documents and exemption from the obligation to identify oneself
Alternative: Personal visit to the registration office by appointment or during open consultation hours
Information session: Friday, November 20, 2026
Time: 5 PM to 7 PM
Location: Citizens' and Public Order Office, Luisencenter, 2nd floor, Darmstadt
Registration: Not required
Cost: Support at the information event is free of charge.
Bring along: ID document, preferably a smartphone and the PIN, if known
Contact the registration office: Telephone 06151 115
Email: meldeamt@darmstadt.de
(DARMSTADT – RED/stip)
