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How do I verify my identity?

Identity verification is the process where you prove you are you — and not someone pretending to be you. After you create your Login.gov account or sign in, you may need to verify your identity to access services at some agencies.

What do I need to verify my identity?

You will need a driver’s license or state ID, a Social Security number, and a U.S. phone number or mailing address to verify your identity with Login.gov.

If you don’t have all of these requirements, contact the agency you are trying to access to find out what you can do instead.

What ID can I use?

Login.gov accepts these ID types:

  • Driver’s license from all 50 states, the District of Columbia (DC), and other U.S. territories (Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico).
  • Non-driver’s license state-issued ID card. This is an identity document issued by the state, the District of Columbia (DC), or U.S. territory that asserts identity but does not give driving privileges.

We do not accept:

  • U.S. passports
  • military IDs
  • expired IDs or extension documents paper or temporary IDs
  • non-U.S. IDs

How does identity verification work?

  1. Take photos of your ID online. You may also be asked to take a photo of yourself to confirm that you are the owner of your ID. If you have trouble taking photos of your ID and yourself, you may also be able to verify your identity in person at a United States Post Office near you.

  2. Enter your Social Security number and we will verify your personal information against public and proprietary records.

  3. We will verify your phone number and send a one-time code to your phone. If that doesn’t work, we may be able to verify your address by mail.

  4. Re-enter your password to store your verified information in your account, and connect your information to the partner agency you are trying to access.

How does Login.gov use my information?

Login.gov is a secure, government website that adheres to the highest standards in data protection. We ask for your consent before we share your verified information with the partner agency. Learn more about our privacy and security measures.

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