Coinbase identity verification process: how to complete KYC certification

Coinbase requires users to complete a KYC verification process by submitting personal information and government-issued ID to ensure secure and compliant transactions.

Jun 30, 2025 at 09:56 am

Understanding the Coinbase Identity Verification Process

Coinbase, one of the most popular cryptocurrency exchanges globally, requires users to undergo a Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process before they can fully utilize the platform. This is primarily to comply with regulatory requirements and ensure secure transactions. The KYC process helps prevent fraud, money laundering, and other illegal activities by verifying the real identity of users.

The identity verification on Coinbase typically involves submitting personal information such as your full name, date of birth, address, and government-issued identification documents. Depending on your location and the level of access you wish to obtain, additional documentation may be required.

What Documents Are Required for KYC on Coinbase?

To successfully complete the KYC certification on Coinbase, users must provide specific documents that meet the platform's standards. These include:

• A clear photo or scan of a government-issued ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, or national ID card.
• Proof of address, which can be a recent utility bill, bank statement, or tax document showing your full name and residential address.
• In some cases, especially for high-volume traders or institutional accounts, selfie verification may be requested where users must take a live photo holding their ID.

It is important to ensure that all uploaded documents are not expired, clearly legible, and match the information provided during registration. Any mismatch or unclear image may result in delays or rejection of your verification request.

Steps to Complete KYC on Coinbase

Completing the KYC process on Coinbase is straightforward if you follow the correct steps carefully. Here’s how to proceed:

• Log into your Coinbase account and navigate to the verification section under your profile settings.
• Select the type of verification you need — individual or business account verification.
• Fill in your personal details, including full legal name, date of birth, gender, and nationality.
• Upload a copy of your valid government-issued ID. Make sure it is well-lit and not blurry.
• Submit proof of address if prompted. Some users may not be asked for this initially but could be later depending on transaction volume.
• If required, take a real-time selfie while holding your ID in front of you. The system will compare this with your uploaded ID to confirm authenticity.
• Wait for the verification status to update, which usually takes a few minutes to several hours.

Always double-check the information you submit to avoid any back-and-forth communication with Coinbase support.

Common Issues During Coinbase KYC Verification

Despite following the correct procedures, some users face challenges during the KYC verification process on Coinbase. Common issues include:

• Document rejection due to poor quality: Ensure your ID is scanned or photographed clearly without glare or shadows.
• Mismatched names: The name on your ID should exactly match the name used during registration. Avoid nicknames or misspellings.
• Expired documents: Only valid, non-expired IDs are accepted.
• Poor lighting in selfies: When taking a selfie for verification, ensure you're in a well-lit area with no background distractions.

If your verification fails multiple times, Coinbase may ask you to contact customer support or re-upload your documents after correcting the errors.

Tips for a Smooth KYC Experience on Coinbase

To ensure a seamless KYC certification experience on Coinbase, consider the following tips:

• Use a high-quality camera when uploading ID documents to avoid blurriness.
• Choose a plain background when taking your selfie to help the facial recognition software work effectively.
• Always upload unedited versions of your ID — no filters or enhancements.
• Keep your documents in supported formats, such as JPG or PDF, and within file size limits specified by Coinbase.
• Ensure your internet connection is stable during the upload process to avoid interruptions.

By following these best practices, you significantly reduce the chances of verification failure or unnecessary delays.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use an old version of my ID for Coinbase KYC?

A: No, Coinbase only accepts valid, unexpired government-issued identification documents. Expired IDs will be rejected during the verification process.

Q: How long does Coinbase KYC take to process?

A: Most verifications are completed within a few minutes. However, some cases may require manual review, which can take up to 24–48 hours.

Q: What happens if my KYC gets rejected multiple times on Coinbase?

A: Repeated failures may result in temporary restrictions on your account. You’ll need to re-upload accurate documents or contact Coinbase support for further assistance.

Q: Is there a way to skip KYC on Coinbase?

A: No, KYC is mandatory for most features on Coinbase, including buying, selling, and withdrawing crypto. Some limited functions may be available without verification, but full access requires completing KYC.