Über VideoIdent

VideoIdent is a regulatory identity-verification process in which a customer joins a live video call with a verification agent who checks their identity document on camera. It is the dominant method used by German mobile operators to satisfy TKG §111, the law that requires identity verification before any SIM card activates.

A typical session has six steps:

1. Provider redirects you to the verification service (usually IDnow or WebID)
2. You grant camera and microphone access in your browser or the provider's app
3. An agent joins the call within 1-15 minutes
4. The agent asks you to hold your ID up to the camera at various angles for hologram and photo checks
5. You answer security questions matching your signup form (DOB, address, document number)
6. The agent approves or rejects; approved cases activate within minutes

Pass rate is around 90% when conditions are right. Common failure causes are poor lighting, ID glare, audio dropouts, and name mismatch with the signup form. Second failure routes to PostIdent at a Deutsche Post branch as the in-person alternative.