Documents & ID
How long does a German ID card take?
Estimated wait
~28 days
Based on published sources
By case
- Faster cases~24 days
- Average cases~28 days
- Slower casesUp to 42 days
A new German ID card (Personalausweis) is usually ready about 3 to 6 weeks after you apply, and is then collected in person at your Bürgeramt (it is not mailed). For an extra fee, an express card (Expressausweis) is available in a few days.
Sources
Personalausweisportal21 days–42 days
ID card ~3-6 weeks from application to pickup.
Last updated: 25 Jun 2026
Information is for general knowledge only.