Introduction to World ID Proofs

A Proof lets you confirm one thing about yourself to an app without revealing anything else. You claim each Proof in a different way, and once claimed, it's stored on your device.

You can add, view, and manage the Proofs covered in this article from the Credentials tab in World ID app.

World ID Proofs work through the World ID protocol and its zero-knowledge proof technology, letting you selectively prove things about yourself, such as confirming you are over 18, without revealing your identity or any other personal information.

Types of Proof

Proof of Human

Proof of Human confirms that you are a unique human. You claim it by verifying in person at an Orb, which provides the highest level of assurance.

Proof of Attributes

This proves specific attributes from your government credentials like age or nationality, without revealing anything else. The following NFC-enabled government ID types are currently supported (where available):

• Passports
• National ID Cards, such as:
  • eID (Italy)
  • My Number Card (Japan)

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a wireless technology that allows your phone to securely read information from a compatible document held in close proximity. Most modern smartphones support NFC. On Android, NFC must be enabled in your device settings. On iPhone, NFC is always on.

To be eligible, a passport must display the biometric chip symbol (the small rectangular icon with a circle) on its cover: 

How to add a World ID Proof

Proof of Human: verify in person at an Orb. See What should I expect when getting my World ID verified at an Orb? for what to bring and what to expect.

Proof of Attributes: add an NFC-enabled government ID in World ID app:

1. Open the Credentials tab in World ID app.
2. Tap the Add verification button.
3. Select your government ID type (e.g., Passport or National ID).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your document's NFC chip.
5. Once verified, it will appear in the Credentials tab.

Expired Proofs

Proof of Human: you may occasionally be asked to renew and update your World ID at an Orb. See Why do I need to update my World ID?

Proof of Attributes: if the government ID behind it has expired, it will be flagged in the Credentials tab. Claim a new Proof of Attributes using a valid, unexpired document.

Troubleshooting

I'm having trouble scanning my ID

Visit this article for help resolving common scanning issues: I'm having issues verifying my passport or national ID.

I'm seeing an error when scanning

Common errors include:

• ID Card Expired — The document cannot be used. Try a different, valid ID.
• Country Not Supported — The country of issue is not yet supported. Try a different eligible document.
• No Photo Loaded — The chip on this document did not return photo data. Try a different eligible document.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check if my device supports NFC? 

Check your device's technical documentation:

• To enable NFC on Android, go to Settings and search for NFC. 
• On iPhone, NFC is always enabled.

What ID types can I use? 

Currently, NFC-enabled passports and national ID cards are supported. Additional document types may be added in the future.

Where is my data stored? 

All information collected during credential verification stays on your device within your Personal Custody Package. Tools for Humanity, World Foundation, and any other third parties have no access to this data.

Who can see my Proof data? 

Only you. Your World ID Proof data is stored locally on your device and is never transmitted to or retained by any external party.

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