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Step 3 Identity Verification

What is ID Verification?

ID Verification is a digital identity validation process through DocuSign. It validates an applicant's identity to ensure that the applicant who e-signs the USMLE Step 3 Certification of Identity (CID) is indeed the correct person, eliminating the need for a notary. As part of the authentication process, DocuSign verifies the signer's government ID and ensures liveness at the time of signature. 

What type of identity document is required?

Liveness detection for ID Verification only accepts certain types of documents to verify your identity. As part of the process, the individual will select the country from which their ID was issued and a list of "accepted documents" for that country will be displayed. Most countries are supported by ID Verification. 

  • Accepted document types can include, but are not limited to:
    • Driver’s license
    • Government issue passport
    • State ID Card
  • A full list of countries and accepted documentation can be found on the DocuSign website.

What is being verified on the ID itself?

  • The ID is not expired
  • The name matches the envelope (legal name selected on the USMLE Step 3 application)
  • The MRZs (machine readable zones), such as barcode, decode to information that is consistent with the rest of the ID
  • Visual features/holograms are consistent with what that ID type should look like
  • There is no evidence of font tampering, letter spacing, holes or other defects in the ID

System Requirements:

All operating systems are compatible with ID Verification, but we have found that Google Chrome is the most effective for this process.

If you are unable to utilize the services of ID Verification, there are several options available:

Online eNotary Services

There are various electronic notary services that provide convenient online access to professionally certified and licensed notaries. Using an online notary service eliminates the need to visit a traditional in-person notary.

Please visit your online Secretary of State official website or conduct an online search to locate an eNotary service.

Traditional Notary

A traditional notary is accepted.  

Others

Government officials (e.g., Embassy officials), attorneys/barristers, and other similar officials who have the authority to notarize or certify documents are also accepted. 

Questions? Contact Us

If you have any questions, please contact us at (817) 868-4041 or usmle@fsmb.org. 

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