Guide
Markdown exportLeitweg-ID
The German routing system for electronic invoices. Unique identification and correct delivery to public contractors.
What is a Leitweg-ID?
The Leitweg-ID is a unique identifier for public contractors in Germany who receive electronic invoices. It enables automatic delivery of XRechnung documents to the correct authority and organizational unit.
Mandatory Information
Since November 27, 2020, the correct Leitweg-ID is mandatory for all invoices to public contractors in Germany.
Format Requirements
Use these points as the practical checks for this section.
- Minimum 3, maximum 12 characters
- Alphanumeric characters (A-Z, 0-9)
- Hyphen (-) as separator allowed
- No spaces or special characters
- Unique assignment per authority
- Registration in Leitweg-ID directory
Example Leitweg-IDs
991-12345-67 (Federal authority)
Bundesministerium der Finanzen
02-L-12345 (State authority)
Land Bayern
03-K-67890 (Municipal authority)
Stadt München
04-U-11111 (Other public entity)
Universität Hamburg
Validation Process
Follow this sequence as the practical checklist for this section.
- Perform format validation
- Check Leitweg-ID directory
- Verify authority status
- Control validity period
- Confirm routing capability
- Perform test transmission
Common Errors & Solutions
Invalid format
Leitweg-ID does not meet format requirements Solution: Correct format according to official specifications
Not registered
Leitweg-ID is not found in directory Solution: Request correct Leitweg-ID from recipient
Inactive status
Authority is temporarily not ready to receive Solution: Use alternative transmission methods or try later
Routing error
Technical delivery not possible Solution: Contact Access Point Provider
Format Example
| federal level | authority code | organizational unit |
|---|---|---|
| 991 | 12345 | 67 |
Directory Search
Use the official Leitweg-ID directory for search and validation.