Identity Proofing and Credential Analysis
What is identity proofing?
Identity proofing is the means by which the principal (signer of a document) affirms their identity. This is done through a third party who uses dynamic knowledge based authentication (KBA). KBA is a process in which the principal is asked a series of questions about the principal’s identity and personal history. In order to pass, the principal must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly. If the principal fails their first attempt, they may retake the quiz once within 24 hours. If the principal fails a second attempt they are prohibited from retrying with the same notary for at least 24 hours.
What is credential analysis?
Credential analysis is the process by which a principal’s government-issued identification card is validated. The process requires a third party to use technology to confirm the security features on an ID and confirm the ID is not fraudulent. The third party also uses information available from the issuing source or other authoritative source to confirm the details on the credential.
As part of the process, the third party is required to provide an output of the authenticity test to the notary and enable the notary to visually compare the credential used during credential analysis with the principal who has personally appeared before the notary via audio-visual transmission.
Can the notary provide the identity proofing and credential analysis process for the principal?
No. Both Chapter 406 of the Government Code and Chapter 87 of the secretary of state administrative rules require a third party to provide both the identity proofing and credential analysis procedures. By utilizing this technology, your digital certificate, when affixed to the document you have notarized, will make the document tamper evident.
Does the secretary of state have a list of third party providers approved to provide identity proofing and credential analysis services?
No. A person looking for a third party provider of identity proofing and credential analysis services should look for a provider who can provide evidence to the person of the provider’s ability to satisfy the requirements of Chapter 87, Subchapter H of the Texas Administrative Code.
