A press card is an important work tool for many journalists. It serves as proof of journalistic activity and facilitates access to certain events, press conferences or restricted areas. However, not every journalist is automatically entitled to a press card, and there are numerous misunderstandings about its meaning and use. In this article, you will find out who can apply for a press card, when it is really necessary and what you should look out for to avoid falling for dubious providers.
1. when do I need a press card?
A press card is not an absolute must for journalistic work, but can be useful in many situations. These include
- Access to events, trade fairs or press conferences that are only accessible to accredited journalists.
- Easier procurement of information from authorities and companies.
- Proof of journalistic activity vis-à-vis the police, fire department or security forces, especially in critical situations.
- In some cases, a press card can enable discounts or reductions, for example for business trips or access to certain databases.
2. do I always need a press card?
A press card is not absolutely necessary to work as a journalist. Freelance journalists and bloggers can often get by without one. Especially in the digital age, a lot of research, interviews and articles can be carried out without physical proof of journalistic activity.
Nevertheless, the press card can be helpful in certain situations, for example when:
- Official bodies may only pass on information to accredited journalists.
- Organizers of major events should only grant access to press representatives with ID.
- The journalist must quickly identify himself as a representative of the press in dicey situations.
3. who gets a press card?
In principle, the press card is intended for full-time journalists. This includes reporters, editors, photographers, cameramen or online journalists who work regularly and predominantly as journalists.
Not everyone who works occasionally as a journalist is automatically eligible. The following criteria are usually required:
- A regular, remunerated job as a journalist.
- Publications in recognized media.
- In some cases, membership of a professional association or trade union.
Bloggers or influencers may also be able to apply for a press card if they can prove that they regularly produce journalistic content and that this has a relevant reach.
4 Where can I apply for a press card?
An official press card is issued in Germany by these 6 associations and trade unions:
- Federal Association of Digital Publishers and Newspaper Publishers (BDZV)
- German Union of Journalists in Ver.di (dju)
- German Association of Journalists (DJV)
- Media Association of the Free Press (MVFP)
- Photographers’ association FREELENS
- Association of German Sports Journalists (VDS)
Applicants must provide evidence of their journalistic activities, for example in the form of work samples, contracts or fee statements.
Important: In Germany, there is a national press card that is issued jointly by the aforementioned associations and recognized by the authorities; all other providers are fake!
5. beware of dubious providers
There are numerous providers on the Internet who sell supposedly official press cards without much scrutiny. These are usually useless and are not recognized by the authorities. Even if the website gives the impression of being reputable, they are useless in the event of an inspection and, in the worst case, only cause unnecessary trouble.
How do you recognize dubious providers?
- No or very low requirements for applicants.
- High fees without any recognizable service in return.
- No connection to a recognized journalists’ association.
- Promises of special rights that a genuine press card does not grant.
If you fall for such providers, you not only risk losing money, but in the worst case you could be liable to prosecution for deception or abuse.
6 The nationwide press card
The official press card in Germany is issued by the above-mentioned associations and bears the seal of the Conference of Interior Ministers. This nationally recognized card offers the following advantages:
- Official recognition by authorities and security forces.
- Uniform award criteria for all journalists.
- Protection against misuse and dubious providers.
It must be applied for annually and requires proof of full-time journalistic activity.
7 A press card is not a free pass
A widespread misconception is that a press card confers unlimited rights. In fact, there are clear limits:
- No general access to restricted areas – The press card does not automatically grant access to police barricades, court hearings or private events.
- No protection from legal consequences – journalists must continue to abide by the law, for example when filming or photographing in sensitive areas.
- Not a free ticket for discounts – Even if some companies grant discounts, the press card is not an official discount or benefit ticket.
8. alternatives to the press card
Even without a press card, there are ways to identify yourself as a journalist and gain access to information or events. Two important alternatives are
Editorial assignment
A written editorial assignment from a recognized media organization or publishing house can often serve as proof of journalistic activity. Organizers, authorities or companies often accept such documents as legitimation for press inquiries or access to certain events.
- An editorial order should contain official letterhead data of the editorial office.
- It must clearly confirm the journalistic activity of the agent for a specific purpose.
- Some offices also require a contact person in the editorial office for verification.
Credible interest
Even without a press card or editorial mandate, journalists can obtain information in some situations if they can demonstrate a credible interest. This applies in particular to:
- Press inquiries to public authorities: The Freedom of Information Act (IFG) and information requests under press law often allow access to official documents – even for journalists without an official press card.
- Events and trade fairs: Some organizers allow accreditation on the basis of publications or the naming of a medium for which reporting is to take place.
- On-site research: A credible journalistic interest, proven by previous articles or the declaration of a research project, can facilitate access.
The press card as a “shortcut”
A press card is not a mandatory requirement for journalistic work, but it makes many processes easier. It serves as a “shortcut” because the journalistic activity has already been checked and confirmed by a third party – namely by professional associations or trade unions.
This means:
- Journalists do not have to individually legitimize themselves or prove their work each time.
- Security forces, authorities and event organizers are quicker to recognize the press card as credible confirmation.
- It reduces bureaucracy and saves discussions about journalistic activities.
So anyone who works regularly as a journalist can work more easily and efficiently with a recognized press card. However, those who only research or report occasionally can also rely on alternative credentials.
9. conclusion & tips
A press card is an important tool for full-time journalists, but not an absolute necessity for everyone. If you need a press card, you should only apply for one from recognized associations and stay away from dubious providers.
Tips for applicants:
- Check whether you meet the requirements for an official press card.
- Only apply for it from recognized associations or trade unions.
- Be careful with providers who issue a press card without proof.
- Find out about the actual rights and limits of a press card.
Anyone who is a serious journalist will benefit from an official press card – but always within the framework of the applicable rules.
