Verify your identity on Coinbase

Coinbase uses identity verification in order to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) laws. KYC is a way to identify and confirm that a customer is who they say they are. It’s a multi-step process that helps prevent the creation and use of fraudulent accounts.

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.

To verify your identity:

  1. Sign in to your Coinbase account or access the Coinbase mobile app.

  2. Access the Document Verification prompt.

  3. Select your preferred identity document type and upload method.

  4. Follow the on-screen instructions then select Upload.

  5. You’ll receive an email confirmation when the verification has completed.

Accepted identity documents

United States

  • State-issued IDs such as a Driver License or Identification Card

Outside of United States

  • Passport

  • Government-issued photo ID

  • National Identity Card

Important: Please ensure your document is valid—we can't accept expired IDs.

Unaccepted identity documents

  • United States Passports

  • United States Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

  • School IDs

  • Medical IDs

  • Temporary (paper) IDs

  • Residence Permit

  • Public Services Card

  • Military IDs

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.

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

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