ID.me, a federally conformant identity verification platform, and Sterling Check Corp, a provider of background services, have announced that their in-person identity verification solution has been recognized by the Kantara Initiative for meeting federal guidelines set by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Verification

According to the companies, this achievement adds to ID.me’s online verification methods, including 43 million Americans who have already verified with ID.me to NIST standards and can prove their identity simply by logging in. Now, ID.me’s digital identity platform and Sterling’s network of retail-based kiosks enable federal, state and local US governments to deliver omnichannel, NIST-compliant access to verification.

Kantara Initiative, Inc is an international ethics based, mission-led non-profit industry ‘commons’ focused on improving the trustworthy use of personal data. ID.me is the first verification solution to have three verification methods independently assessed to be Identity Assurance Level 2 (IAL2): online self-serve, video chat and in-person. All of these options are now available through Sterling’s suite of background screening and verification services.

Currently used by five government agencies, in-person verification allows individuals — even those without a mobile device or dedicated internet access — to verify their identity at a physical location with the help of a trained agent.

The companies highlight that these locations are part of the Sterling Identity Network of safe, convenient, professional biometric collection and verification facilities in all 50 states and Washington DC. Additionally, agencies can tailor the customer experience by deploying kiosks within their offices or service centers. The companies highlight that kiosks have already been installed in several state workforce centers, allowing for quick access to in-person verification during emergency recovery efforts.

Access

“Earning Kantara’s TrustMark for in-person verification shows ID.me’s commitment to consumer choice and equitable access,” said Blake Hall, Founder and CEO of ID.me. “Users that don’t have access to technology or prefer to engage outside of purely digital channels can do so in a way that meets the government’s high bar for security and assurance. Every day, we move closer to realizing our goal of ‘No Identity Left Behind’ in partnership with Sterling. Being the first independently accredited, omni-channel solution helps us raise the bar on equitable access.”

ID.me says its partners can purchase the IAL2 in-person verification offering to help expand access to secure, easy-to-use verification. Once an individual verifies their identity in person, they can use their ID.me credential to gain secure access elsewhere within ID.me’s network of 12 federal agencies, 36 state agencies and over 500 companies. Sterling’s clients also have access to a suite of identity verification services to enhance their background screening programs.

“In-person verification is critical for achieving equitable access for all who need their identity verified,” said Josh Peirez, CEO of Sterling. “Whether individuals are seeking access to government services or applying for a new job, Sterling and ID.me are together providing their best path forward. Partnering with ID.me to achieve IAL2 certification is an accomplishment we are very proud of and affirms Sterling’s deep commitment and strong belief in our identity solutions.”