You have needed the new certificate of competence (SKN) in card format since 26.11.2015. Use the online service for this.

• The authority accepts the complete application documents and checks the details and the authenticity of the certificates and/or attestations.
• If your application is successful, you will receive confirmation by email. It is not necessary to also send the signed application by post.
• If all requirements for the recognition of expertise have been met, the authority will issue a notification of recognition and fees.
• Once payment has been received, the certificate of competence cards are produced once a month throughout Germany. It can take 2 months from the time of application until the certificate of competence card is sent out.
• The card will be sent to you by post by the printing service provider.

It can take 2 months from the time of application until the certificate of competence card is sent out.