The digital identity card introduced in 2010 should make many things easier for citizens. 13 years later people are still printing, signing by hand, faxing and going to the office. What went wrong?
The key for digital Germany is 8.6 by 5.4 centimeters. Since 2010, the “nPA” – the new identity card – has been issued in credit card format. Citizens have to pay ten euros more than before for the new ID card. Makes 920 million euros within 13 years with 92 million ID cards. Money well invested, that’s what Angela Merkel’s black-yellow government was convinced of. With the eID function of the ID card with a chip, they should be able to identify themselves to the authorities on their home computer, apply for benefits or register.