Is Login.gov a national ID?

No. It is a shared login and identity-verification service for government websites, not an ID card or document.

What sign-in security does it require?

At least one multi-factor authentication method, with options including device biometrics, authenticator apps, security keys, phone codes, and PIV/CAC cards.

🇺🇸 United States · Government login

Login.gov

Login.gov is the public's shared account for secure, private access to participating U.S. government services with a single username and password. Operated by the GSA, it provides multi-factor authentication and, for eligible programs, identity verification. It is not a national ID; it is a login and identity-proofing service used across federal, state, and local agencies.

What it does

Online authenticationIdentity verification / KYCBiometric authentication

Country:🇺🇸 United States

Type:Government login

Status:Live

Launched:2017

Issuer:U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)

Who can get it:Members of the public accessing participating U.S. government services

Format

Web accountMobile-accessible account

Identity attributes

Email addressPhone numberVerified identity attributes (name, address, DOB, SSN) for proofed accounts

Authentication methods

Password + MFAAuthenticator app (TOTP)Hardware security keySMS or phone one-time codeDevice biometricsGovernment PIV/CAC card

Common use cases

Single sign-on to government websitesAccessing federal benefits and servicesIdentity proofing for eligible programs

Standards

NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity GuidelinesMulti-factor authentication (MFA)

Coverage

Over 49 million active users (FY2023); used across all federal Cabinet agencies

Interoperability

Domestic

Privacy and trust

Login.gov safeguards user data with encryption and mandatory multi-factor authentication and is run as a government service rather than a commercial identity broker.

Official source

https://login.gov/

Login.gov: frequently asked questions

Is Login.gov a national ID?: No. It is a shared login and identity-verification service for government websites, not an ID card or document.
What sign-in security does it require?: At least one multi-factor authentication method, with options including device biometrics, authenticator apps, security keys, phone codes, and PIV/CAC cards.

Educational reference, not official guidance. Confirm current details with the issuing authority. See United States data protection law · all United States schemes · identity verification vendors