Verify your identity on Coinbase

Coinbase uses identity verification to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) laws and prevent fraudulent activity. KYC is a multi-step process that confirms the identity of customers. We collect necessary information mandated by law, such as verifying your identity and protecting you from potential fraudulent activity.

Identity verification is required for all Coinbase customers during sign-up and for existing customers. The process can include uploading pictures of your ID, taking a selfie, or recording a short selfie video. We may occasionally request additional details from some customer accounts to meet regulatory obligations.

Your Coinbase account will have limited functionalities until the identity verification process is completed. Read more about Data Privacy at Coinbase and how Coinbase uses your information.

Before you move on

  • As part of our commitment to remain the most trusted cryptocurrency platform, all ID documents must be verified through the Coinbase website or mobile app. We don't accept emailed copies of your ID documents for verification purposes.

  • Changing your legal name or country of residence requires you to update your ID document. If you’re changing your country of residence, you’ll need to upload a valid ID from the country you're currently residing in. You can change your personal information from your Profile page.

  • The ID verification process can take from 10 minutes to 48 hours.

Start the process

To verify your identity (Mobile app / Browser):

  1. Access the Coinbase mobile app or your Coinbase.com account and sign in.

  2. Go to our Document Verification page and follow the on-screen instructions.

    • Make sure the information on your documents matches your current account details.

    • For a selfie video, follow the in-app instructions.


An email is sent to you once your verification is complete.

Provide the related information listed for each identity document type:

  • Passport

    • Number

    • Gender

  • Medicare

    • Number (10 digits)

    • Reference (single digit listed before your name)

    • Expiration date

    • Colour

  • Driver’s licence

    • Licence number

    • State

    • Card number (may be located on the back of your card)

If you’re a Victoria or Queensland resident, a driver’s licence card number is not required.

Taking a photo of your Identity Document

  • Use the latest version of Google Chrome browser (whether you’re on a computer or mobile device)

  • Your phone’s camera typically produces the clearest photo

  • Make sure your area is well-lit (natural light works best)

  • Use indirect light for your ID to avoid glare

  • If you must use a webcam, try setting the ID flat down and move the webcam instead of moving the ID

  • Use a plain background for the ID

  • Don’t hold the ID in your fingers (confuses the focusing lens)

  • Clear your browser cache, restart the browser, and try again

  • Wait 30 minutes between attempts

Taking a selfie (photo of your face)

This may be required for account recovery if you lose your 2-step verification device or additional security is required for an action you are trying to perform.

  • Use the latest version of Google Chrome browser

  • Face the camera directly and include your shoulders to the top of your head

  • Have a plain wall as a background

  • Use indirect light for your ID to avoid glare and no backlight

  • Do not wear sunglasses or a hat

  • If you were wearing glasses in your ID photo, try wearing them in your selfie photo 

  • Clear your browser cache, restart the browser, and try again

  • Wait 30 minutes between attempts

Still having trouble?

Learn some Identity Document verification troubleshooting tips.

Access your Profile page to update your residential address and display name or correct your date of birth.

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