---
title: "What Is Knowledge-Based Authentication? Meaning & Example"
description: "Identity questions drawn from the signer's records that only the signer should be able to answer. Plain-English definition with a worked example."
url: "https://mcc-solutionsnj.com/notary/glossary/knowledge-based-authentication"
---

Notary glossary

# What is knowledge-based authentication?

Identity questions drawn from the signer's records that only the signer should be able to answer.

By [Matthew Coleman](/about), MCC Solutions

✓ New Jersey commissioned notary, no. 50244803, insured for errors and omissions. [See the credentials](/about/credentials)

## In plain English

RON platforms commonly pair KBA with checking a government ID. If the signer fails, they may not proceed.

Need this notarized? [Get it notarized online by a New Jersey notary over video](/notary/remote-online-notarization), or [book a notary visit in New Jersey](/notary/#order).

The questions come from credit and public records.

## Why it matters

Failing these questions can end a remote session before any document is signed. People with thin credit files, recent moves or name changes sometimes struggle, which can mean switching to an in-person signing.

The questions are timed, so a signer who has to search old paperwork can run out of time.

## Worked example

A signer is asked a set of questions about past addresses and must pass within the time limit.

## What to do

- Think through past addresses, vehicles and lenders before the session.
- Sit somewhere quiet so you can focus during the timed questions.
- Answer the questions yourself without help from others.
- If you fail, ask the notary what the platform allows for retries.
- Have an in-person backup plan if the document has a deadline.

## Common mistakes

- Having a spouse answer questions defeats the purpose and can void the session.
- Guessing quickly on unfamiliar questions can use up the allowed attempts.
- Waiting until the deadline day leaves no time for an in-person option if questions are failed.

## Not the same as: Credential analysis

Knowledge-based authentication tests what you know from your records, while credential analysis checks whether your physical ID card appears genuine. [See Credential analysis](/notary/glossary/credential-analysis).

## Go deeper

- [RON Identity Verification: KBA and Credential Analysis](/notary/guides/ron-identity-verification-kba-and-credential-analysis): How remote online notarization confirms identity: credential analysis of your ID, knowledge-based questions, and what to do if the checks do not pass.
- [Remote Notarization ID Rejected: Troubleshooting Steps](/notary/guides/remote-notarization-id-rejected-troubleshooting): When a remote notarization platform rejects your ID photo, these steps can help: fixing glare, trying another document, checking expiration and ID types accepted.

## Related terms

- [Legalization](/notary/glossary/legalization): A multi-step process that authenticates a document for use in a country that does not accept an apostille.
- [Lien release](/notary/glossary/lien-release): A document stating that a debt secured by property has been paid and the lien removed.
- [Jurat](/notary/glossary/jurat): A notarial act where the signer swears or affirms that the contents of the document are true and signs in front of the notary.

## Common questions

**What is knowledge-based authentication?**

Identity questions drawn from the signer's records that only the signer should be able to answer.

**Can you give an example of knowledge-based authentication?**

A signer is asked a set of questions about past addresses and must pass within the time limit.

**Where do the questions come from?**

They are drawn from credit and public records tied to your identity. The notary does not write them.

**What happens if I fail?**

Platforms commonly allow a limited number of attempts. After that, the signer may need to try later or sign in person.

General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and change; check with your state's commissioning office.

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 [Full glossary](/notary/glossary)

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