What SAFE registration is
SAFE is the process by which the Irish state verifies your identity and creates a unique record linking your biometric data to your PPS number. Once you are SAFE-registered, you are on the state identity register and do not need to prove your identity from scratch for subsequent government interactions.
The process was designed to reduce identity fraud in the social welfare system and to create a common identity platform across government departments. It is similar to the kind of biometric registration used for passports and national identity cards in other countries.
SAFE has two levels
- SAFE Level 1: Basic registration, older system. Limited uses.
- SAFE Level 2: Full registration with photograph and signature capture. Required for PSC, MyGovID verified access, and passport online.
Most people going through SAFE registration today are registered at Level 2.
What happens at the appointment
- 1
Document check
A DSP officer checks your documents. They verify that your identity document is genuine and current, and that the documents match each other and the details on file for your PPS number.
- 2
Photograph taken
A digital photograph is taken of you at the appointment. This photograph is stored on the chip of your PSC and in the DSP database. It is used for identity verification purposes.
- 3
Signature captured
You sign on a digital pad. This signature is also stored on the chip and in the database.
- 4
Identity confirmed
The officer confirms your SAFE registration in the system. You will be told you are registered. Your PSC is then produced centrally and mailed to you.
Data retention — what is kept
The DSP retains your photograph, signature, and document details in its databases. Following the 2019 Data Protection Commissioner ruling, the Department was required to review and reduce the data it was retaining. If you want to know exactly what data is held on you, you can submit a Subject Access Request to the Department of Social Protection under GDPR.
How long does SAFE registration last?
SAFE registration itself does not expire. Your biometric identity record remains on file. However, the PSC card itself has an expiry date and must be renewed. When you renew, your SAFE registration is usually confirmed rather than repeated from scratch — though you may need to attend in person if your appearance has changed significantly.