Berliners who have served the city of Berlin for more than 20 years in elective or honorary positions and are older than 65 years can become city elders. These periods can be shortened in the case of exceptional services, particularly to democracy and the reunification of Berlin. The Senate, in agreement with the House of Representatives, usually awards the title of City Elder on the occasion of an important event in the life of the honoured person. The House of Representatives, the members of the Senate, the district offices and the district assemblies of councillors are authorised to nominate candidates. Those honoured receive a certificate of appointment signed by the Governing Mayor and the President of the House of Representatives. In order to emphasise the rank of this special dignity, the number of living city elders should not exceed 40. The Senate invites the city elders to ceremonies as guests of honour. They receive the Berliner Amtsblatt free of charge and an annual ticket from the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG). By the end of 2021, 271 people had received the title of City Elder.