How to Register for SPID Poste: A Comprehensive Guide
SPID, the Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale (Public Digital Identity System), is Italy’s national digital identity. It allows Italian citizens to access online services offered by the Public Administration (PA) and participating private entities with a single username and password. Poste Italiane, one of the Identity Providers (IdP), offers SPID Poste, a widely used and reliable SPID identity. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step explanation of how to register for SPID Poste, covering everything from initial requirements to troubleshooting common issues.
## What is SPID and Why Do You Need It?
SPID simplifies online interactions with the Italian government and other participating organizations. Instead of creating separate accounts for each service, you can use your SPID credentials to log in to various platforms, including:
* **Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency):** File taxes, access tax returns, and manage fiscal information.
* **INPS (National Social Security Institute):** Access pension information, apply for unemployment benefits, and manage social security contributions.
* **Comuni (Municipalities):** Obtain certificates, register for services, and pay local taxes.
* **Regioni (Regions):** Access regional healthcare services, apply for regional grants, and manage regional taxes.
* **Other Public Administrations:** Access a wide range of online services offered by government agencies at the national, regional, and local levels.
* **Participating Private Entities:** Access online services from banks, insurance companies, and other businesses that accept SPID for authentication.
Having SPID streamlines administrative processes, saves time, and reduces the need for physical visits to government offices. It’s a crucial tool for anyone living or working in Italy.
## Prerequisites for SPID Poste Registration
Before you begin the SPID Poste registration process, ensure you have the following:
1. **Valid Italian Identity Document:** You must have one of the following valid Italian identity documents:
* Carta d’Identità (Identity Card)
* Passaporto (Passport)
* Patente di Guida (Driving License) – Although driving license is accepted by Poste Italiane, some other SPID providers might not accept it. It’s always recommended to use Carta d’Identità or Passaporto if possible.
2. **Tessera Sanitaria (Health Card) or Codice Fiscale Card:** This card contains your Codice Fiscale (Tax Identification Number), which is essential for registration.
3. **Italian Mobile Phone Number:** You need an active Italian mobile phone number to receive SMS verification codes and other important notifications.
4. **Email Address:** A valid and accessible email address is required for account activation and communication.
5. **A Computer or Smartphone with Internet Access:** You need a device with a stable internet connection to complete the online registration process.
6. **Webcam (Optional but Recommended):** While some registration methods don’t require a webcam, having one can simplify the identification process, especially when registering online.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for SPID Poste
Poste Italiane offers several methods for obtaining SPID Poste. Choose the method that best suits your needs and technical capabilities.
### Method 1: Online Registration with CIE (Electronic Identity Card) or CNS (National Service Card)
This is generally the fastest and easiest method if you have a CIE (Carta d’Identità Elettronica) or CNS (Carta Nazionale dei Servizi) and a compatible card reader.
**Step 1: Access the SPID Poste Website**
* Open your web browser and go to the official SPID Poste website: [https://posteid.poste.it/](https://posteid.poste.it/)
**Step 2: Start the Registration Process**
* Click on the button that says “Richiedi SPID” (Request SPID) or a similar call-to-action button that initiates the registration process. The exact wording might change slightly, but it’s usually prominently displayed.
**Step 3: Choose Online Identification with CIE/CNS**
* You will be presented with different identification options. Select the option that says something like “Identificati con CIE/CNS” (Identify with CIE/CNS). This will indicate that you’ll be using your electronic identity card or national service card for verification.
**Step 4: Connect Your Card Reader and Insert Your Card**
* Connect your card reader to your computer and insert your CIE or CNS into the reader. Ensure that the card reader is properly installed and recognized by your computer.
**Step 5: Install Required Software (if necessary)**
* You might be prompted to install specific software or drivers to allow your computer to communicate with the card reader and access the information on your CIE/CNS. Follow the on-screen instructions to install any required software. This might include the CIE ID software or a similar application. Typically, the PosteID website will guide you through this process.
**Step 6: Enter Your Personal Information**
* The system will automatically extract some of your personal information from the CIE/CNS. Verify that the information is correct and fill in any missing fields, such as your email address and mobile phone number. Ensure that the information you provide matches the information on your Tessera Sanitaria (Health Card) or Codice Fiscale card.
**Step 7: Create Your SPID Credentials**
* Choose a username and password for your SPID account. Follow the password requirements, which typically include a minimum length, a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Store your username and password in a safe place.
**Step 8: Verify Your Email Address and Mobile Phone Number**
* Poste Italiane will send verification codes to your email address and mobile phone number. Enter the codes in the designated fields to verify your contact information.
**Step 9: Accept the Terms and Conditions**
* Carefully read the terms and conditions of SPID Poste and accept them to proceed.
**Step 10: Complete the Registration**
* Submit your application. If everything is correct, you should receive a confirmation message indicating that your SPID Poste registration is complete. You will typically receive an email confirming your SPID activation.
### Method 2: Online Registration with Webcam and Italian Identity Document
This method allows you to register online using your webcam to verify your identity document.
**Step 1: Access the SPID Poste Website**
* Open your web browser and go to the official SPID Poste website: [https://posteid.poste.it/](https://posteid.poste.it/)
**Step 2: Start the Registration Process**
* Click on the button that says “Richiedi SPID” (Request SPID) or a similar call-to-action button.
**Step 3: Choose Online Identification with Webcam**
* Select the option that says something like “Identificati con Webcam” (Identify with Webcam). This option will lead you to the webcam-based identification process.
**Step 4: Upload a Photo of Your Identity Document**
* You will be prompted to upload a clear photo of your valid Italian identity document (Carta d’Identità, Passaporto, or Patente di Guida). Make sure the photo is well-lit and that all the information on the document is clearly visible. Follow the guidelines provided by Poste Italiane regarding acceptable file formats and size limits.
**Step 5: Webcam Identification**
* You will need to use your webcam for a live video call with a Poste Italiane operator. The operator will guide you through the identification process. They will ask you to show your identity document to the webcam and may ask you some questions to verify your identity.
**Step 6: Enter Your Personal Information**
* After the webcam identification, you will need to enter your personal information, including your Codice Fiscale, email address, and mobile phone number. Double-check the accuracy of the information.
**Step 7: Create Your SPID Credentials**
* Choose a username and password for your SPID account, following the password requirements.
**Step 8: Verify Your Email Address and Mobile Phone Number**
* Verify your email address and mobile phone number by entering the verification codes sent to you.
**Step 9: Accept the Terms and Conditions**
* Read and accept the terms and conditions.
**Step 10: Complete the Registration**
* Submit your application and wait for confirmation. The activation process might take slightly longer compared to the CIE/CNS method, as it involves human verification. You will receive an email confirming your SPID activation once the process is complete.
### Method 3: In-Person Registration at a Poste Italiane Office
This method involves visiting a Poste Italiane office to complete the registration process in person. It’s a good option if you’re not comfortable with online registration or if you have difficulty using a computer or webcam.
**Step 1: Find a Participating Poste Italiane Office**
* Not all Poste Italiane offices offer SPID registration services. Check the Poste Italiane website ([https://posteid.poste.it/](https://posteid.poste.it/)) to find a participating office near you. You can usually search by postcode or city.
**Step 2: Gather Required Documents**
* Bring your valid Italian identity document (Carta d’Identità, Passaporto, or Patente di Guida), Tessera Sanitaria or Codice Fiscale card, and your mobile phone with an Italian SIM card.
**Step 3: Visit the Poste Italiane Office**
* Go to the selected Poste Italiane office during their operating hours. It’s often a good idea to check if you need to book an appointment in advance, especially during busy periods. Some offices might require you to take a number and wait your turn.
**Step 4: Complete the Registration Form**
* A Poste Italiane employee will assist you with the registration process. You will need to fill out a registration form with your personal information. The employee will verify your identity document and Codice Fiscale.
**Step 5: Create Your SPID Credentials**
* The employee will help you create a username and password for your SPID account.
**Step 6: Verify Your Mobile Phone Number**
* You will receive a verification code on your mobile phone. Provide the code to the employee to verify your phone number.
**Step 7: Complete the Registration**
* The Poste Italiane employee will complete the registration process for you. You will receive a confirmation document and an email with instructions on how to activate your SPID account.
### Method 4: Registration via Poste Italiane App (for existing Poste Italiane Customers)
If you are already a customer of Poste Italiane with a BancoPosta account or a PostePay card, you might be able to register for SPID directly through the Poste Italiane app.
**Step 1: Download and Install the Poste Italiane App**
* Download the official Poste Italiane app (usually called “Poste Italiane” or “BancoPosta”) from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
**Step 2: Log in to the App**
* Log in to the app using your existing Poste Italiane account credentials (username and password for your BancoPosta account or PostePay account).
**Step 3: Find the SPID Registration Section**
* Navigate to the section of the app related to SPID registration. This might be located under “Servizi” (Services) or a similar menu option. Look for an option specifically mentioning SPID or “Identità Digitale” (Digital Identity).
**Step 4: Follow the On-Screen Instructions**
* The app will guide you through the registration process. You might need to verify your identity using existing information associated with your Poste Italiane account.
**Step 5: Create Your SPID Credentials**
* Choose a username and password for your SPID account, following the password requirements.
**Step 6: Verify Your Mobile Phone Number and Email Address (if required)**
* The app might ask you to verify your mobile phone number and email address. Follow the instructions to complete the verification process.
**Step 7: Complete the Registration**
* Submit your application. Your SPID account should be activated relatively quickly, as the app can leverage your existing Poste Italiane account information for verification.
## Activating Your SPID Poste Account
Regardless of the registration method you choose, you will need to activate your SPID Poste account after completing the initial registration steps. This typically involves clicking on a link in the confirmation email you receive from Poste Italiane. Follow the instructions in the email to activate your account.
## Using Your SPID Poste Account
Once your SPID Poste account is activated, you can use it to access online services that support SPID authentication. When you encounter a website or online service that offers SPID login, simply click on the SPID button and select “Poste Italiane” as your Identity Provider. You will be redirected to the Poste Italiane login page, where you can enter your SPID username and password. After successful authentication, you will be redirected back to the original website or service with access granted.
## Recovering Your SPID Poste Credentials
If you forget your SPID Poste username or password, you can recover them through the Poste Italiane website. There’s usually a “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” link on the login page. Follow the instructions to reset your credentials. You will typically need to provide your Codice Fiscale, email address, or mobile phone number to verify your identity.
## Troubleshooting Common SPID Poste Issues
Here are some common issues you might encounter during the SPID Poste registration process and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Problem:** Card reader not recognized when registering with CIE/CNS.
* **Solution:** Ensure that the card reader is properly installed and that the correct drivers are installed. Try restarting your computer. Check the card reader manufacturer’s website for troubleshooting information.
* **Problem:** Verification code not received via SMS or email.
* **Solution:** Check your spam or junk folder. Ensure that you entered the correct email address and mobile phone number during registration. Try requesting the verification code again. If the problem persists, contact Poste Italiane customer support.
* **Problem:** Webcam not working during online identification.
* **Solution:** Ensure that your webcam is properly connected and that it is enabled in your browser settings. Close any other applications that might be using the webcam. Try restarting your computer. Check your browser permissions to ensure the website is allowed to access your camera.
* **Problem:** Registration process stuck or error message displayed.
* **Solution:** Try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies. Use a different web browser. Ensure that your internet connection is stable. If the problem persists, contact Poste Italiane customer support.
* **Problem:** SPID Poste login not working on a specific website.
* **Solution:** Ensure that the website supports SPID authentication and that Poste Italiane is listed as a supported Identity Provider. Contact the website’s support team for assistance.
## Contacting Poste Italiane Customer Support
If you encounter any issues that you cannot resolve on your own, you can contact Poste Italiane customer support for assistance. You can find contact information on the Poste Italiane website: [https://posteid.poste.it/](https://posteid.poste.it/). Look for a section labeled “Assistenza” (Assistance) or “Contatti” (Contacts). They typically offer support via phone, email, and online chat.
## Tips for a Smooth SPID Poste Registration
* **Read the instructions carefully:** Pay close attention to the instructions provided by Poste Italiane during the registration process.
* **Have all required documents readily available:** Gather all the necessary documents before you start the registration process.
* **Ensure a stable internet connection:** A stable internet connection is essential for online registration.
* **Choose a strong password:** Create a strong and unique password for your SPID account.
* **Store your credentials securely:** Keep your SPID username and password in a safe place.
* **Don’t share your credentials with anyone:** Never share your SPID credentials with anyone.
* **Keep your contact information updated:** Ensure that your email address and mobile phone number are up-to-date in your SPID account settings.
## Conclusion
Registering for SPID Poste is a relatively straightforward process, and it provides access to a wide range of online services offered by the Italian government and participating private entities. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully obtain your SPID Poste identity and simplify your online interactions with the Italian administration. Remember to choose the registration method that best suits your needs and technical capabilities, and don’t hesitate to contact Poste Italiane customer support if you encounter any issues. With your SPID Poste credentials, you’ll be able to access essential services quickly and securely from the comfort of your own home.