What do I have to do during an identity check?

The police have the right to check your identity at any time. The aim of these checks is to identify you as a person. This means that the police take your personal details. Personal details include the following information:

  1. First name / Last name
  2. Date of birth
  3. Place of residence / Nationality
  4. Address where you officially live and are registered
  5. Information on residence permit or registration procedure

Details of your place of work, profession,telephone number, etc. are NOT part of yourpersonal details!

What are my rights during an identity check?

  • Only the police are allowed to ask you foryour personal details. Security staff arenot allowed to do this. If you are not surewhether you are talking to the police, askfor ID (a police ID looks like an identitycard). Take your time to look at the ID carefully.
  • You may ask for the names of the police officers and write them down.
  • You are not allowed to take a photo ofthe police ID. Ask for a business card. Youare allowed to photograph these.
  • You do not have to answer any questionsthat go beyond your personal details ifyou do not want to.
  • You have the right to know the reason forthe identity check.