Login.gov Launches Passport-Based Identity Verification for Remote Access

The U.S. government announced today that Login.gov now supports identity verification through biometric U.S. passports, a major expansion of the federal digital identity platform. The General Services Administration (GSA) unveiled the feature as part of its efforts to enhance security and simplify access to government services.

How the Passport Verification Works

Through the new system, users can verify their identity by scanning the biographical data page of a U.S. passport during the remote proofing process. The information is securely checked against Department of State records using a privacy-preserving API. This approach allows Login.gov to move away from reliance on credit bureau data, instead leveraging government-held records for more accurate and secure verification.

“Login.gov is at the forefront of the Administration’s efforts to create efficiencies and combat fraud, and initiatives like this are a great example of doing both,” said Michael Rigas, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and GSA Acting Administrator.

The phased rollout begins with U.S. passport books, with support for passport cards expected later this year. The timing is significant: the Department of State reports that about 170 million valid passports are in circulation, with a record 24.5 million issued last year. Meanwhile, Login.gov itself now serves over 100 million accounts across federal agencies, making the new capability widely impactful from launch.

Partnerships and Broader Impact

The initiative is the result of collaboration between GSA’s Technology Transformation Services and the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. Hanna Kim, Director of Login.gov, highlighted how the system integrates private-sector document authentication technology with government record checks to provide “a smoother, more accurate identity verification process.”

For users who cannot complete remote verification, Login.gov continues to offer in-person proofing services at participating U.S. post office locations. Officials emphasized that passport verification will be particularly valuable for Americans who lack driver’s licenses or other common forms of identification.

Looking ahead, GSA confirmed that Login.gov is also developing support for mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs), which would further expand options for secure digital verification. These efforts align with broader federal goals to reduce fraud and modernize citizen access to services.

The launch follows a series of government initiatives focused on strengthening digital identity standards. By incorporating passport-based checks directly against State Department records, GSA aims to deliver higher assurance levels while keeping sensitive data within federal systems.

Sources: Identity Week, MeriTalk

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By the ID Tech Editorial Team