Apps That Can Verify IDs — and What Truly Qualifies as Scannable
The term “Scannable ID” is widely used today, but it can actually mean two very different things depending on the context.
In general, it refers to an identity credential that can be digitally read and verified by a device — but the purpose and level of verification vary.
This guide explains:
- The two meanings of “scannable ID”
- Apps and platforms that can scan or verify IDs
- What technically qualifies an ID as truly “scannable”
Two Types of Scannable IDs
1️⃣ ID Scanning & Verification (Business / KYC Use)
This refers to software that scans government-issued IDs (driver’s licenses, passports, national IDs) to:
- Extract structured data
- Verify authenticity
- Perform biometric face matching
- Conduct age verification
- Support AML / KYC compliance
These tools are typically used by:
- Financial institutions
- Online platforms
- Delivery services
- Nightlife and retail businesses
- Regulated industries
2️⃣ Digital / QR-Based Identity Credentials
This refers to IDs that are created digitally and can be scanned using:
- QR codes
- Barcodes
- NFC
- Encrypted mobile wallet credentials
Examples include:
- Mobile driver’s licenses (mDL)
- Digital employee IDs
- Event passes with QR authentication
- Membership credentials
Apps That Can Recognize or Verify IDs
Below are well-known identity scanning and verification platforms.
Jumio
Strengths:
- Enterprise-grade identity verification
- Supports 200+ countries and document types
- AI-based forensic document analysis
- Biometric face matching
- Strong AML / KYC compliance tools
Best for:
Banks, fintech companies, crypto platforms, and high-risk onboarding.
Considerations:
Higher pricing and more complex integration.
Onfido
Strengths:
- Flexible SDKs (mobile + web)
- Biometric verification
- Configurable verification workflows
- Developer-friendly documentation
Best for:
Startups and mid-sized businesses needing scalable ID verification.
Considerations:
Coverage and performance may vary in some regions.
IDnow
Strengths:
- Strong presence in Europe
- Video-based identity verification
- GDPR-aligned processes
- Suitable for regulated banking environments
Best for:
European financial institutions and regulated businesses.
Scandit
Strengths:
- High-performance scanning SDK
- Extracts structured data from IDs
- Integrates into custom apps
Best for:
Companies building their own ID scanning infrastructure.
IDEMIA Mobile ID Verify
Supports scanning of mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) and certain digital credentials.
Best for:
Organizations verifying official digital IDs.
What Makes an ID Truly “Scannable”?
Not every ID that can be photographed is truly “scannable.”
A legitimate scannable ID should include:
✅ 1. Machine-Readable Data
- PDF417 barcode (common on US driver’s licenses)
- MRZ (Machine Readable Zone) on passports
- NFC chip (ePassports, some digital IDs)
✅ 2. Structured Data Fields
Data can be programmatically extracted:
- Name
- Date of birth
- ID number
- Expiration date
✅ 3. Authenticity Verification
True scannable IDs allow validation via:
- Digital signatures
- Security keys
- Barcode checksum validation
- Database verification
✅ 4. Anti-Fraud Features
- Holograms
- Microprinting
- Laser engraving
- UV elements
- Encrypted digital certificates (for mDL)
Basic Scanner vs. True Verification
| Feature | Basic Scanner App | Professional ID Verification |
|---|---|---|
| Reads barcode | ✔ | ✔ |
| Extracts structured data | ⚠️ Limited | ✔ |
| Detects forged documents | ❌ | ✔ |
| Biometric face match | ❌ | ✔ |
| AML / KYC compliant | ❌ | ✔ |
Many low-cost or free apps can read barcodes, but that alone does not equal identity verification.
Final Thoughts
A scannable ID is not just an image with a barcode. It is a credential that:
- Can be machine-read
- Contains structured, standardized data
- Supports authenticity validation
- Meets regulatory or operational requirements
If you’re a business, choosing the right ID scanning solution depends on:
- Risk level
- Regulatory obligations
- Customer onboarding volume
- Integration complexity
If you’re creating digital credentials, ensuring structured data and verification capability is what makes an ID truly “scannable.”