How to Buy a SIM Card in Germany

In Germany, you must register your real identity when buying a SIM card (TKG § 111). Registration under a false name is illegal.

Where to buy: Aldi, Lidl, Rewe, dm, Edeka, or phone shops (Telekom/O2/Vodafone).

Required documents: Passport or ID card. Identity verification via app (VideoIdent) or in-store (PostIdent).

Popular providers:

• Aldi Talk (O2 network) – from €7.99/month, unlimited plans from ~€12/month
• Lidl Connect (Vodafone network) – plans from €9.99/month
• Congstar (Telekom network, best coverage) – from €10/month

Tip: Supermarket prepaid SIMs are the cheapest option with no contract commitment.