UPSC Rolls Out Face Authentication for Candidate Identity Verification

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has introduced Face Authentication for Candidate Verification as a major reform in the examination process. This technology-driven initiative aims to strengthen exam security, eliminate impersonation, and ensure complete fairness during high-stakes examinations such as the Civil Services Examination (CSE), Indian Forest Service (IFoS), and other UPSC-conducted exams. Candidates are advised to upload their latest photo while filling out the UPSC Application Form 2026.

Why UPSC Introduced Face Authentication System?

UPSC conducts examinations that determine recruitment to the country’s most prestigious public services. In recent years, the Commission has focused on tightening verification norms to prevent unfair practices. The face authentication system has been introduced to:

• To prevent impersonation and identity fraud
• To reduce dependence on manual verification
• To speed up entry procedures at exam centres
• To ensure only genuine candidates appear for the exam

UPSC Face Authentication Official Notice Highlights

As per the official UPSC communication, candidates will be verified through AI-based facial recognition technology at the examination venue. The system will compare the candidate’s live facial scan with the photograph submitted in the online application form.

Candidates are strongly advised to upload a recent, clear, and unedited photograph during registration to avoid any mismatch during verification on the exam day.

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How the UPSC Face Authentication Process Works

The UPSC Face Authentication system uses AI-based facial recognition to verify a candidate’s identity in real time at the exam centre by matching their live image with the photograph uploaded in the application form.

• Arrival at Exam Centre: Candidates report to the venue as per the reporting time mentioned on the admit card and proceed to the verification area.
• Document Verification: Officials check the UPSC admit card along with a valid government-issued photo ID such as Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence.
• Live Face Capture: An AI-enabled high-resolution camera captures the candidate’s live facial image at the entry gate.
• Liveness Detection: The system checks natural facial movements like blinking or slight head movement to confirm that the candidate is physically present and not using a photograph or video.
• Digital Image Matching: The captured live image is instantly compared with the photograph uploaded during UPSC registration using facial recognition algorithms.
• Instant Verification Result: If the match is successful, the candidate is cleared forentry. The entire process usually takes 8–10 seconds per candidate.
• Alternate Verification (If Needed): In case of technical failure or mismatch, candidates may be verified through fingerprint authentication or manual verification by exam centre staff.
• Final Entry to Exam Hall: Once identity verification is complete, candidates are allowed to proceed to their allotted examination hall.

Important Guidelines for Candidates

Candidates must carefully follow the UPSC face authentication guidelines to ensure smooth and hassle-free verification at the exam centre.

• Upload a Recent Photograph: The photograph submitted in the UPSC application form must be recent, clear, and high-resolution to enable accurate facial matching.
• Avoid Photo Editing: Do not use filters, excessive editing, or background alterations, as these may lead to mismatch during live face authentication.
• Ensure Proper Lighting in Photo: The face should be well-lit with no shadows, blur, or glare, and the entire face must be clearly visible.
• Maintain Similar Appearance: Candidates should avoid major changes in appearance such as shaving a beard, changing hairstyle drastically, or altering facial features before the exam.
• Avoid Face-Covering Accessories: Items like caps, masks, scarves, or sunglasses should not cover the face during verification unless permitted for religious reasons.
• Follow Exam Centre Instructions: Candidates must strictly follow the instructions given by exam officials during face authentication.
• Carry Valid ID Proof: Always bring a government-issued photo ID along with the UPSC admit card as a mandatory backup for verification.
• Remain Calm During Verification: In case of any mismatch or technical issue, cooperate with the staff as alternative verification methods will be used.
• Report on Time: Reach the exam centre well before the reporting time to allow sufficient time for biometric and face authentication procedures.

Do Not Attempt Impersonation: Any attempt to bypass or manipulate the verification process will lead to immediate disqualification and legal action.