ID and driving license in one application. This is how the new EU wallet is supposed to work

The European Union is preparing to launch the European Digital Identity Wallet, or EUDI Wallet. Each Member State will have to make available an application compliant with common EU standards. In Germany, the first implementations are scheduled to start in 2027.

The system will not immediately replace all paper and plastic documents. Its development is to take place in stages, and users will gradually gain access to subsequent functions.

The EU digital wallet will hold your ID card and driving license

Ultimately, the application will be able to store, among others, an ID card and a driving license. Over time, other documents confirming identity, qualifications or rights will also appear.

The wallet will also enable you to log in to online services, deal with official matters and conclude contracts online. The smartphone is supposed to take over some of the functions of a traditional wallet.

The user will only show the information they need

One of the most important advantages of the system is greater control over the shared data. The user will not always have to provide the entire set of information recorded in the document.

When confirming age of majority, it is sufficient, for example, to provide information about meeting the age requirement. Date of birth, residential address and other data may remain hidden.

The application will be useful in banks and offices

The European wallet is intended to make it easier to open a bank account, sign electronic documents and use public administration services. Its main task will be to confirm the user’s identity.

However, this does not mean that bank accounts will be transferred to one system. Transfers and other financial operations will still be carried out in the applications of individual banks.

You will need your digital ID PIN

In Germany, using the new solutions will require active electronic identification in the ID card and knowledge of the PIN number assigned to it.

Many people have never used electronic document functions or do not remember the code. The German government is planning to restart the PIN reset service.

Safety will be key

Documents saved in the application are to be protected with digital signatures. The system should allow the transfer of only the information needed to perform a specific activity.

However, experts point out the risk of cyberattacks, phishing attempts and problems after losing the phone. The success of the project will depend on effective security and user trust.

Traditional documents will remain in use

The launch of the system in 2027 does not mean the immediate abandonment of physical documents. ID cards and driving licenses will continue to be used, and the digital wallet will gradually expand its scope.

Ultimately, the application is to enable secure identity confirmation throughout the European Union. This is intended to make it easier to use public and commercial services both in your country of residence and when traveling to other EU countries.