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Mobile-ID

Frequently asked questions

Mobile-ID service is supplied by your mobile operator.

In Estonia: Elisa, Telia or Tele2. In Lithuania: Bite, Telia or Tele2.

General information

Mobile-ID is an electronic identity document that is fully state-supported in Estonia and gaining popularity fast in Lithuania. Its online usage is very similar to ID-card – but without the need for a smart-card reader. You can use it to authenticate yourself (i.e. log in to banks, websites, state services etc) and to sign documents (confirm transactions, sign legally binding agreements etc).

  • Requirements for using Mobile-ID

    Mobile-ID is a SIM-card based solution – so you need a service agreement with your mobile operator, and a specific SIM-card.

    What’s best: once activated, you can use it across devices. For example you may want to access your online bank via your computer, just start the logging in process by selecting Mobile-ID, type in your phone number and authenticate the request from your mobile phone.

  • Can you use Mobile-ID when traveling?

    Yes, of course! Mobile-ID uses one or two SMS-s for each transaction, so as long as you have access to your mobile phone, you’ll be good to go – even when roaming!

  • Can minors use Mobile-ID?

    General minimum age required for Mobile-ID is 7, but each mobile operator may set their own age specific limitations: please check with them.

  • Do I need to visit the Police to activate Mobile-ID?

    No, that was the old process – you no longer need to visit the Police and Border Guard service points to start using your Mobile-ID. All of the information will be provided by your mobile operator who will also be activating the certificates.

  • Can more than one person use the same Mobile-ID?

    No! It is an official identity document and only the person it’s assigned to is allowed to use it.

Certificates

Mobile-ID certificates are valid for 5 years and you can activate them through your mobile operator. You cannot update the certificates: once they expire, you need to replace your existing SIM-card with a new one.

  • How to activate Mobile-ID certificates?

    Please visit your mobile operator, they each have their own process for activating the certificates.

  • What if my certificates expire?

    You need a new SIM-card – please order one before your existing Mobile-ID expires! Most mobile operators allow you to order a replacement SIM through their self service.

PIN-codes

PIN-codes enable you to keep your Mobile-ID safe: PIN1 protects authentication and PIN2 protects digital signing. PUK-code is used to unlock PIN-codes should they get locked. Keep your PIN- and PUK-codes safe and do not share them with anyone!

  • How can I change my PIN-codes?

    Open the Mobile-ID app on your phone and select “Change codes” in the menu. This is also where you can unblock the PIN-codes should they accidentally get locked.

    NB! You need your PUK-code to unblock your PIN-codes!

  • What if I’ve lost/forgotten my PIN-codes?

    If you’ve forgotten your PIN but still have access to your PUK-code, open your Mobile-ID app and locate “Change codes” on the menu. You can unblock the PIN-codes, using your PUK-code.

    If you’ve also lost or forgotten your PUK-code, you need to order a new Mobile-ID SIM-card.

  • How to keep my PIN- and PUK-codes safe?

    Do NOT keep your PIN- and PUK-codes easily accessible for anyone who might have stolen your phone, computer or a wallet etc!

    It’s best to just memorize them, but we understand it’s not always an option. You can change the PIN-codes to something more memorable through your Mobile-ID app, and you can always write them down using your own secret code. For example, store them in your address book masked as phone numbers of relatives, or create a system for decoding them that only you know about.

    Remember: you are responsible for the safety of your Mobile-ID and all actions taken with it, so it is your responsibility to make sure no-one else has access to your PIN- and PUK-codes!