This guide is for individuals going through a Persona-powered identity verification flow. While we’ve included helpful tips, the verification was set up by the business, service, or organization that asked you to verify. They use Persona as a tool, and they ultimately decide what’s required and can assist with your specific situation, if you’re having trouble.
Why a license fails to scan
A driver’s license is scanned like any plastic ID. It fails when the card is not fully in frame, the light or angle hides the details, or the barcode or magnetic strip is damaged.
Get a good capture
- Lay the license flat on a steady surface and photograph it from directly above so all four edges are visible.
- Use bright, even light with no glare.
- Hold the phone steady and let the verification flow focus before taking the photo.
- Wipe the card; wear and dirt hide the barcode.
If it still fails
- Try the state ID steps in my state ID won’t scan.
- If the barcode is the issue, see no barcode shows up.
- An expired license may be rejected even if the scan works. See my ID is expired.