Why You Need an Estonian ID Card
The Estonian ID card (ID-kaart) is one of the most powerful identity documents in the world. It's not just ID — it's your key to digital Estonia:
- Digital signatures — Sign documents, contracts, even buy property
- Access government services — Tax, healthcare, voting (for EU citizens)
- Authentication — Login to banks, utilities, all e-services
- Public transport — Register your travel card
- Mobile-ID — Enable your phone as an authentication tool
- Travel — Valid ID within EU/Schengen
Bottom line: Without an ID card, you're missing out on what makes Estonia special.
Who Can Get One
Automatic Eligibility
You can apply for an Estonian ID card if you have:
- Estonian citizenship
- Estonian residence permit (temporary or long-term)
- Right of residence (EU citizens registered in Estonia)
Not Yet a Resident?
You need to register your residence in Estonia first. See our visa guide for options.
What You'll Need
Documents Required
| Document | Notes | |----------|-------| | Valid passport or current ID | Original required | | Residence permit/registration | If not Estonian citizen | | Passport photo | Biometric, taken at application (usually) | | Application form | Filled on-site or online | | Fee payment | Card or cash |
Photo Requirements
Photos are usually taken at the PPA service point, but if you bring your own:
- Biometric format (35mm x 45mm)
- White background
- Recent (within 6 months)
- Front-facing, neutral expression
- No glasses (new rules)
How to Apply
Step 1: Book an Appointment
Book online at broneering.politsei.ee
- Available in English
- Choose "ID-kaart" (ID card)
- Select your nearest PPA service point
- Pick a time slot
Tallinn locations:
- Tammsaare tee 51 (main office)
- Pärnu mnt 139
- Lasnamäe Centruum
Step 2: Attend Your Appointment
What happens:
- Submit your documents
- Photo and fingerprints taken
- Pay the fee
- Receive your receipt
Processing time:
- Standard: up to 30 calendar days
- Express (extra fee): 2-5 working days
Step 3: Collect Your Card
You'll receive an SMS/email when ready. Collect from:
- Same PPA service point, OR
- Have it mailed (additional fee, within Estonia)
When collecting, you'll also receive:
- PIN envelope (PIN1 and PIN2 codes)
- Card reader (first card free, or buy separately)
Costs (2024)
| Service | Price | |---------|-------| | ID card (standard processing) | €30 | | ID card (express, 2-5 days) | €50 | | ID card (under 15 or over 65) | €20 | | Card reader | Free (first time) / €10 | | Replacement (lost/stolen) | €30 |
Setting Up Your ID Card
The Codes
Your ID card comes with two PIN codes:
- PIN1 (4+ digits) — Used for identification/login
- PIN2 (5+ digits) — Used for digital signatures
- PUK — Recovery code if you block PINs
Keep these safe! You'll need them constantly.
Getting the Software
To use your ID card on a computer:
- Install ID-software: installer.id.ee
- Connect card reader (USB)
- Insert ID card
- Open DigiDoc4 Client for signing documents
Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Browser Extension
For web authentication:
- Chrome/Firefox: Web-eID extension
- Safari: Built-in (Mac)
Test your setup at test.id.ee
Using Your ID Card
Digital Signatures
Digital signatures are legally equivalent to handwritten signatures:
- Open DigiDoc4 Client
- Add document(s) to sign
- Click "Sign"
- Enter PIN2
- Done — creates .asice file
Where you'll use it:
- Employment contracts
- Bank applications
- Government submissions
- Property transactions
- Any official document
Authentication (Login)
Most Estonian e-services accept ID card login:
- Select "ID-kaart" login option
- Insert card in reader
- Enter PIN1
- You're in
Common uses:
- Internet banking
- Tax board (e-maksuamet)
- Health portal (digilugu.ee)
- Social insurance (sotsiaalkindlustusamet)
- E-residency services
Mobile-ID Setup
Turn your phone into an authentication device:
- Go to your mobile provider (Telia, Elisa, Tele2)
- Request Mobile-ID SIM or activation
- Get Mobile-ID PIN codes (separate from ID card PINs)
- Use phone instead of card reader
Cost: Usually included in plan or small monthly fee
Smart-ID (Alternative)
Many people also use Smart-ID app:
- Free smartphone app
- Works like Mobile-ID
- Easier to set up
- Download from App Store/Google Play
- Register using your ID card (one-time)
Common Issues
PIN Blocked
After 3 wrong PIN attempts:
- PIN blocked
- Use PUK code to reset
- 10 wrong PUK attempts = card blocked permanently
If fully blocked: Apply for new card at PPA
Lost or Stolen Card
- Block immediately at politsei.ee
- Or call 112 (emergency) or 612 3000
- Apply for replacement
- Police report (if stolen)
Card Not Working
- Check reader connection
- Update ID-software
- Try different USB port
- Restart computer
- Check card chip for damage
Renewal
When to Renew
- ID cards are valid for 5 years (adults)
- Apply for renewal 6 months before expiry
- Old card remains valid until new one arrives
Renewal Process
Same as new application:
- Book appointment
- Submit documents
- Pay fee
- Collect new card
Tips & Advice
- Book early — Appointment slots fill up, especially in Tallinn
- Morning appointments — Less crowded
- Save your PINs — But not with your card!
- Get Smart-ID too — Convenient backup
- Update address — If you move, update at rahvastikuregister.ee
- Check validity — Banks may require valid ID
- Bring paper — Just in case something's missing
Children's ID Cards
For children under 15:
- Parent/guardian must apply
- Both parents' consent (usually)
- Reduced fee (€20)
- Valid for 5 years
Beyond the ID Card
Once you have your ID card, explore:
- e-maksuamet — File taxes in minutes
- digilugu.ee — Health records
- rahvastikuregister.ee — Official address
- eesti.ee — Government services portal
- Internet banking — Full access
Welcome to digital citizenship! 🇪🇪