Is technology used for identifying voters at polling stations (electronic poll books)?
Germany
Die Bundeswahlleiterin, Bundestag election 2025: On the Sunday of the election (Bundestagswahl 2025: Der Wahlsonntag), accessed 18 March 2025
At the polling station
Do I have to present my identity card at the polling station?
You are not explicitly required by law to show your identification at the polling station. Those who are listed in a voters’ register or have a polling card may vote. However, the electoral board may ask you to present your identification. If you have forgotten your voter’s notification, you will have to show your identity card.
See also: Postal ballot Legal bases Section 14 (3) of the Federal Elections Act (BWG) Section 56 (3) of the Federal Electoral Regulations (BWO).
The Federal Returning Office (Die Bundeswahlleiterin), Federal Elections Act of 1993 (last amended on 7 March 2024) (Bundeswahlgesetz (BWG) (zuletzt geändert am 7. März 2024)), accessed 18 March 2025.
Act is only available in German as of the last access date.
