My ID Verification Photo Keeps Failing on an Exchange - How Do I Fix It?

30 September 2026

If your exchange keeps rejecting your ID verification photo, the most likely cause is that your photo does not meet the exchange’s specific technical or formatting requirements. The fix involves checking those requirements, adjusting your setup, and resubmitting a clean, well-lit image that matches your submitted ID exactly. This page walks through the common reasons for rejection and the steps to resolve them.

Why exchanges reject ID photos

Exchanges use automated systems to scan ID photos for legibility, consistency, and authenticity. A rejection usually means the system could not clearly read the text, match the photo to the ID, or confirm the document is genuine. Common triggers include:

Blurry or low-resolution images. A phone camera held too close or in poor light produces a grainy photo that software cannot read.
Glare or shadows. Flash reflections off a passport or driver’s license cover text. Shadows from overhead lighting can obscure edges or details.
Cropped or obstructed details. The photo cuts off part of the ID, or your fingers, a cover, or another object blocks text or the photo area.
Wrong document type or format. Some exchanges only accept specific IDs (e.g., passport, national ID, driver’s license) or require a certain file type (JPEG, PNG) and size limit.
Expired or altered ID. The document must be current and unmodified. Tape, stickers, or handwritten notes can cause rejection.
Mismatched information. The name, date of birth, or address on the ID does not match what you entered on the exchange profile. Even a typo in one field can fail the check.
Selfie vs. ID mismatch. If the exchange asks for a live selfie alongside the ID, your current appearance must clearly resemble the ID photo. Changes in weight, hairstyle, or facial hair can cause issues.

Step-by-Step Fixes

1. Review the Exchange’s Exact Requirements

Before resubmitting, open the exchange’s identity verification page or help section. Look for a list of accepted ID types, file formats, maximum file size (often 5 - 10 MB), and any instructions about lighting or framing. Some exchanges also have a “sample” image showing how the ID should appear. Follow those specifications precisely.

2. Prepare a Clean, Well-Lit Photo

Use a flat, uncluttered surface. Place the ID on a dark or neutral background so the edges are visible.
Use natural daylight or a desk lamp aimed indirectly to avoid glare. Avoid direct flash.
Hold your phone steady and parallel to the ID. A slight angle can distort text.
Fill the frame so the ID occupies most of the image. Leave a small border, but do not crop into the edges.
Check the photo preview before submitting. If text looks sharp and there is no glare, proceed.

3. confirm your submitted information

Log into your exchange account and review the personal details you entered during registration or verification. Correct any typos in your name, date of birth, or address. The exchange will compare these fields against the scanned ID data. Even a missing middle initial can cause a mismatch.

4. Try a Different Device or Camera

If you are using a phone camera, switch to a more recent phone or a tablet with a higher-resolution lens. Alternatively, scan the ID with a flatbed scanner or a scanning app that produces a clean image. Avoid screenshots or photos of a screen.

5. Submit a Live Selfie if Required

When the exchange asks for a selfie holding the ID or a live photo, ensure your face is fully visible, well-lit, and unobstructed by glasses, hats, or masks. Hold the ID next to your face so both are in frame. Follow the same lighting and focus rules as for the ID photo.

6. Check for Account-Specific Blocks

If you have already failed verification multiple times, some exchanges temporarily lock the verification process or flag the account for manual review. You may see a message like “too many attempts” or “account under review.” In that case, stop submitting and contact support directly. Provide a clear explanation and attach your best-quality images to the support ticket.

7. Use Alternative Verification Methods (If Available)

Some exchanges offer video verification, where you hold your ID to a live camera while an agent reviews it. This bypasses automated photo checks. Look for a “video call” or “live verification” option in your account settings or support menu.

What to do if it still fails

If you have followed all steps and the exchange continues to reject your ID, the issue may lie with the document itself:

The ID may be expired, damaged, or not accepted in your region. Check the exchange’s list of supported countries and document types.
The exchange’s automated system may be incorrectly reading a valid ID. In this case, escalate to a human support agent. Provide your account email, a ticket number, and clear photos of the ID from multiple angles. Be patient - manual reviews can take several days.

Preventing Future Problems

Keep a digital copy of your ID saved securely, but do not upload it to unverified sites.
Before starting verification, review all account details and ID expiration dates.
If you change your appearance significantly (e.g., shave a beard, cut long hair), update your profile photo or note it in a support ticket before verifying.