Germany reinstates online PIN reset service for electronic IDs

The German Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) has reinstated a free online service for resetting the PIN of the electronic identity card (e-Perso). The service, which allows users to order a PIN reset letter via the website ‘PIN-Ruecksetzbrief-bestellen.de’, was originally launched in February 2022 but was suspended in early 2024 due to budget cuts.

The reset letter provides a new PIN, an activation code, and a QR code. To ensure security, the letter is sent to the user's registered address in Germany via Postident delivery. This requires the recipient to either receive it personally at their door or collect it from a post office by presenting an official identity document.

This service is intended for individuals who have forgotten their self-selected PIN, lost their initial PIN letter, or need to reactivate the online identification function of their electronic ID card, thereby avoiding a physical visit to a local administrative office.