Digital Identity in Germany: State of Play in mid 2024

The latest findings from the 2024 eGovernment MONITOR study shed light on the evolving landscape of digital identities in Germany. This study, conducted by Initiative D21 e. V. , provides a comprehensive analysis of the use and acceptance of state-issued digital identities among German citizens, highlighting significant trends, barriers, and demographic insights.

Purpose of the Study

The study aims to evaluate the readiness, usage, and obstacles associated with digital identity cards, particularly the Online-Ausweis (Electronic Identity on German ID card). By examining these factors, the research seeks to understand how digital identity tools can be better implemented to enhance public administration services and improve user engagement across different age groups and demographics.

Key Findings

1. Increased Readiness of Online IDs: The proportion of individuals with an operational online ID card rose significantly from 30% in 2023 to 39% in 2024.
2. Demographic Trends: The readiness to use online ID cards has improved across all age groups, with notable increases among Generation Z (up 15 percentage points) and the oldest generation born before 1945 (up 12 percentage points). .
3. Usage Patterns: Approximately 22% of individuals with a valid ID have utilized the eID function at least once, marking a significant increase from previous years. Men, younger generations, and individuals with higher formal education levels are more likely to use the online ID.
4. Barriers to Adoption: Despite the positive trends, several barriers persist. Key obstacles include a lack of perceived benefits (22%), the complexity of the setup process (20%), and a general lack of trust in the online ID system (18%).
5. Smartphone Integration: Awareness of the ability to use smartphones for reading online IDs remains low, with less than a quarter of respondents knowing about this feature.
6. Wallet Usage: The use of digital wallets on smartphones has increased from 28% in 2023 to 37% in 2024. Additionally, over half of the respondents expressed support for a unified digital identity solution that could be used across various services, including fitness studios, health insurance, and public authorities.

The study highlights the critical areas where improvements can be made to enhance the adoption and effectiveness of digital identity tools in Germany. By addressing the existing barriers and increasing public awareness, there is significant potential to streamline public administration processes and make digital services more accessible and user-friendly. As Germany continues to advance its digital infrastructure, these insights provide a roadmap for policymakers and technology providers to foster a more inclusive and efficient digital identity ecosystem.

About the eGovernment MONITOR study

The eGovernment MONITOR shows whether the digital transformation of administration is being received by citizens in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is achieving success. The annual report, which has been published since 2010, helps decision-makers measure progress and identify weak points. This enables targeted measures to be taken to improve digital administrative services. The eGovernment MONITOR is a study by the D21 initiative and the Technical University of Munich under the patronage of the Federal Minister of the Interior and Home Affairs, Nancy Faeser, carried out by Kantar.

Executed between May 6 and May 28, 2024, the 2024 study surveyed 8,108 individuals across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, representing the online population aged 16 and above who use the internet privately .

The complete study will be published on October 8, 2024.

Initiative D21 - eGovernment MONITOR 2024: Digital Identities (Study Pre-Publication) - PDF

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