What is a Leitweg-ID?
Quick answer
A Leitweg-ID is the routing identifier (BT-10, Buyer Reference) that a German public authority assigns so an XRechnung reaches the correct office. It is mandatory for B2G invoices in Germany — if it is missing, validation rule BR-DE-15 fails. The format is a coarse routing ID, an optional fine routing ID, and a two-digit check digit, separated by hyphens (e.g. 04011000-12345-06).
Last updated 20 June 2026 · KoSIT — XRechnung standard · Leitweg-ID coordination office (FITKO)
Why it exists
German public authorities are made up of many offices and departments. The Leitweg-ID tells the receiving system (for example the federal ZRE portal or a state OZG portal) exactly which office an e-invoice should be routed to — think of it as an address inside the administration.
It is issued by the public-sector buyer, not the supplier. As a supplier, you put the Leitweg-ID you were given onto the invoice.
The format
A Leitweg-ID has up to three parts separated by hyphens: a coarse routing ID (required), an optional fine routing ID, and a two-digit check digit. Example: 04011000-12345-06.
The check digit allows a basic plausibility check. Always copy the ID exactly as the authority gave it to you.
Where it goes in the invoice
The Leitweg-ID travels in field BT-10 (Buyer Reference). In UBL that is the cbc:BuyerReference element; in CII (the Factur-X/ZUGFeRD structure) it is ram:BuyerReference.
It is not the same as a customer number or a purchase-order number — though some authorities also ask for an order number separately.
Fixing the BR-DE-15 error
BR-DE-15 is the XRechnung rule that requires a Buyer Reference (BT-10) to be present. If you see this error, the Leitweg-ID is missing or empty.
Fix it by entering the Leitweg-ID the authority gave you into BT-10. In the validator you can check the file and fill the field directly — your invoice data never leaves your browser.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Leitweg-ID mandatory?▼
For electronic invoices to public-sector buyers in Germany (B2G) the Leitweg-ID is generally mandatory. Without it the invoice is rejected as non-compliant (rule BR-DE-15).
Where do I get a Leitweg-ID?▼
From your public-sector buyer. The authority issues the ID and tells you — often in the order, the contract, or on request.
What does the format look like?▼
A coarse routing ID, an optional fine routing ID, and a two-digit check digit, separated by hyphens, e.g. 04011000-12345-06.
Is the Leitweg-ID the same as a purchase-order number?▼
No. The Leitweg-ID controls routing (BT-10). A purchase-order or customer number is a separate field and may be required in addition.
What if the authority hasn't given me a Leitweg-ID?▼
Ask the relevant office for it. Without a valid Leitweg-ID a B2G invoice cannot be delivered.
Validate and fix your XRechnung
Drop the file, check the Leitweg-ID and other fields — all in your browser, no upload.