A method for controlling a speed of a turbocharger that is in operative connection with a compressor, the steps including: provision of a setpoint for the speed of the turbocharger on the basis of a model-based precontrol for a calculation of a desired boost pressure ahead of the turbocharger; determination of an actual value for the speed of the turbocharger; control of an actuator of the turbocharger in order to compensate for the difference between the desired value and the actual value for the speed of the turbocharger. A main signal and a subsidiary signal are provided during the determination of the actual value for the speed of the turbocharger, wherein the main signal and the subsidiary signal are combined in order to validate the actual value for the speed of the turbocharger.