Credential analysis is a process by which a person's government-issued identification card is validated.
Proof uses credential analysis as one method of identity verification. The methods available for verifying a signer's identity vary, depending on the state in which the signer lives.
Read Identity verification overview for more about methods of verifying an identity.
How credential analysis works
Credential analysis is presented to users after they pass knowledge-based authentication, if applicable. The Proof platform runs an automated analysis of the primary credential provided by each signer to determine if the ID they submitted is valid. Multiple factors contribute to the system's algorithm to confirm an ID is valid.
Be sure to use your own individual email address for your Proof account. The Proof platform only allows one identity per email address.
⚠️ Notaries are responsible for confirming that the person appearing before them is the same person on the credentials provided.
Credential analysis results
If the ID is validated during credential analysis, the signer moves on to meet with a notary.
If the validation fails, an error message appears, providing an opportunity to learn more about acceptable forms of ID, as well as the option to return to the dashboard or try again, depending on the situation.
Common reasons for credential analysis failure are:
- The ID does not appear to be valid.
- The system is unable to validate your ID.
- The name or date of birth on your ID does not match the name or date of birth that you provided earlier.
- Glare is making the ID/part of the ID unreadable.
- The photo is not clear enough.
- The email address is associated with another person.
- If you share your email account with someone else and they created a Proof account, the system will not be able to validate your ID because your email address is associated with another person.