Is KBA the same as biometric verification?
No. KBA uses personal-history questions, while biometric verification may compare a live image to an ID photo.
Online Notary Guides
KBA vs. Biometrics in Remote Online Notarization
Understand how KBA, credential analysis, and biometric identity verification may be used during a remote online notary session.
iRemoteNotary Editorial Team
Quick Answer
What is the difference between KBA and biometrics in online notarization?
KBA, or knowledge-based authentication, asks identity questions based on personal history. Biometrics may compare a live selfie or facial image to an ID photo. Remote online notarization platforms may use KBA, credential analysis, biometric verification, or a combination of methods depending on the platform, document, and applicable rules.
Why identity verification is required
Remote online notarization depends on confirming that the signer appearing on video is the person named in the document. Identity verification protects the signer, the notary, and the receiving party.
What is KBA?
Knowledge-based authentication asks the signer a set of timed questions based on personal records. The signer must answer enough questions correctly within the required time. KBA can be difficult for people with limited U.S. credit history, recent address changes, or international residency.
What is credential analysis?
Credential analysis reviews the signer’s ID to check whether it appears valid and authentic. The platform may ask the signer to capture images of the ID and may inspect security features, expiration dates, and document consistency.
What are biometrics?
Biometric verification may compare a live image or selfie to the photo on the signer’s ID. Some platforms use this as part of identity proofing, especially when allowed by the applicable rules and supported by the platform.
Why some signers fail identity verification
A signer may fail because the ID image is unclear, the ID is expired, the name does not match, KBA questions cannot be generated, the signer has limited credit history, or the platform does not support the signer’s ID type.
How to improve your chances of passing
Use a strong internet connection, a clear camera, good lighting, a current ID, and accurate personal information. International signers should confirm whether their ID type and identity verification method are supported before scheduling.
Important caution
The notary cannot bypass required identity verification. If the platform or law requires a specific identity proofing step, the session cannot proceed unless that step is completed successfully.
Frequently asked questions
Why do international signers sometimes have trouble with KBA?
KBA often depends on records tied to U.S. personal history, addresses, or credit data. Some international signers may not have enough data available.
Can a notary skip KBA?
Not if KBA or another required identity proofing method is required for that session.
What should I do if I fail identity verification?
Check your ID, lighting, camera, and personal information. You may need to reschedule or use another approved process if available.
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