Binance identity verification (KYC) is a step every new user must complete. Many get stuck here, failing multiple attempts — switching document types might solve the problem. Here's which documents Binance accepts and which are easiest to pass with.
Supported Document Types
After registering on Binance, the identity verification page lets you choose:
- National ID Card
- Passport
- Driver's License
Available document types may vary slightly by country/region, but these three are the most universal.
National ID: Top Choice for Chinese Users
For mainland Chinese users, the resident ID card has the highest pass rate. The reasons are straightforward:
- Binance's system is highly optimized for Chinese ID cards
- Standardized format with high OCR accuracy
- Most users have one readily available
Photo tips:
- Place the ID flat on a solid-colored surface (white paper or desk)
- Ensure all four corners are in frame without any text blocked
- Even lighting, avoid glare and shadows
- Both front and back required
- Don't use photocopies or scans
One caveat: IDs near expiration (less than 3 months remaining) may be rejected. Use a document with ample validity.
Passport: For Overseas Users and Backup
If your ID card doesn't pass, a passport is the best alternative:
- Internationally recognized — Binance has optimized for passports from all countries
- The info page includes MRZ machine-readable codes for high auto-recognition rates
- Typically longer validity than ID cards
Photo tips:
- Open to the photo/info page
- Ensure the MRZ code (two lines at the bottom) is fully visible and clear
- Keep the page flat — minimize curving
Downside: not everyone has one, and processing takes longer to obtain. But if you have a current passport, the KYC experience is actually very smooth.
Driver's License: Last Resort
Driver's licenses work in most regions but have lower pass rates:
- Format varies significantly across provinces/countries
- Some licenses lack complete information (e.g., no date of birth)
- OCR accuracy is lower than for ID cards and passports
Unless you genuinely have no other documents, don't make this your first choice.
Facial Recognition Tips
After uploading documents, you'll need facial recognition. Common tips:
- Remove glasses: Even if your ID photo shows glasses, try without for recognition
- Good lighting: No shadows on your face — best in indoor daylight
- Natural expression: Don't make faces, maintain a normal expression
- Simple background: No other people or complex backgrounds behind you
- Use your phone: Phone front cameras generally work better than computer webcams
Common Failure Reasons and Solutions
"Document photo not clear" -> Clean the camera lens and retake in better lighting
"Document info doesn't match submitted info" -> Verify name and date of birth match your document exactly — watch for first/last name order
"Facial recognition failed" -> Find better lighting, remove face obstructions, try a different phone if needed
"Document expired" -> Use a document within its validity period
"This document is already used by another account" -> One document per Binance account. If you previously registered another account, contact support
Review Timeline
Normal KYC auto-review completes within minutes. If documents need manual review, it may take hours to a couple of days. Holidays and system busy periods extend review times.
Summary
Document priority: National ID > Passport > Driver's License. Regardless of document type, photo quality is the biggest factor in pass rates. Spending 30 seconds to find good lighting and take a careful photo saves you from multiple resubmissions. If your documents are fine but you still can't pass, try switching to a different document type or contact Binance live support.