Electronic ID

Electronic ID card

An electronic ID card feature is a private ID card that you connect to your computer, it is a card the same size as a credit card that can only be used for electronic identification.

To use electronic ID cards, you must have both a card reader connected to the computer and a software installed to read the identification.

• The card reader is connected to the computer on which the electronic ID card is to be used. The card reader connects the card to the computer. Most branches of banks provide readers for a small fee.

• SmartID software has to be installed. In some newer laptops this kind of software is built-in, as well are keyboards with built-in card readers available for sale in many stores, which is a convenient solution. It is very simple to connect a card reader to a computer using a USB cable.

How do I provide an electronic ID card?

You start by applying for a private ID card here.
The private ID cards are issued specifically for this purpose and are not used for other purposes. You specify your bank and you then retrieve the electronic ID card when it is ready.

How do I enable an electronic ID card?

Once you have submitted the application and paid for the IDcard, go to the branch you chose to get the IDcard activated. Remember to bring a valid ID (passport, driver's license or Icelandic identity card). It is good to have decided in advance the PIN numbers you want on the cards. 4-digit PIN number for authentication and 6-digit PIN number for signing.

How long is the PIN code?

When the card is activated, a 6-digit PIN must be selected. The first four digits are used for identification – such as logging into My pages on island.is – but all six digits are used to sign electronically – e.g. when a loan is taken.

Where do I enable the electronic ID card?

Service points for the electronic ID cards are all around the country from telecommunications companies, banks and Auðkenni.

How do I use electronic identification on a card?

Once the electronic ID card has been activated, the Nexus personal software downloaded to the computer and a card reader has been retrieved in order to use the ID card, the electronic ID card can be used. In order to use the electronic ID card, you access a service provider's website and choose to login with an electronic ID card. Make sure you keep the card in the card reader. A window from Nexus Personal will appear where you enter the PIN code you chose when the certificate was activated and you are logged in.

Overview of service points can be accessed here.