How to get verified on Reddit and what it means

Reddit Verified

The Reddit verified badge is given to some Redditors, and others want to go after this holy symbol too. Reddit uses verification to confirm that an account is real and safe to use on the platform. Many users see the “Verified” label on profiles and want to understand what it means. Others want to know how to get verified on Reddit because they cannot join certain subreddits or access NSFW content. Here is how to get the Reddit verified badge, what it means, and more!

What Reddit Verified actually means

Reddit Verified means Reddit has confirmed that your account meets its identity and safety rules. It does not show status or popularity. It only shows that Reddit has checked your account details. This label helps Reddit reduce bots and protect communities from spam or fake accounts. I was first announced in 2023.

Reddit hosts more than 100,000 active communities (subreddits) according to its public S-1 filing. In a platform of that size it matters who you really are. Reddit uses two main checks. The first one confirms your email and basic account details. The second one confirms your age. You need age verification to enter restricted or NSFW communities. Both checks appear in your account settings under the main Reddit verification section.

Why Reddit uses verification

Reddit uses verification to keep the platform safe and to confirm that users follow age requirements. Some subreddits do not allow new or unverified accounts to reduce spam. Others require age-confirmed accounts before joining or posting. Verification also helps Reddit show appropriate content to the right users and block restricted content from accounts that do not meet age rules.

Verification does not improve your Reddit karma or increase your posts’ visibility. It only confirms that your account is real and safe to use.

Reddit Verified
A verified Reddit account may also mean an official account, just like National Geographic (Image Credit: Reditall)

How to get verified on Reddit on desktop

You can complete verification on a desktop device through the account settings menu. The process is simple and only takes a few minutes.
Follow these steps:

  1. Open Reddit and click your profile icon.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Open the Account tab.
  4. Find the verification section.
  5. Confirm your email if it is not verified.
  6. Upload an ID if Reddit requests an age check.

After you submit your information, the system reviews it. Your account receives the “Reddit Verified” label when the check is complete.

How to get verified on Reddit on mobile

You can also complete the process through the Reddit app. The steps are similar, but the app often asks for camera access because it scans your ID.
Here is how to do it:

  1. Open the Reddit app.
  2. Tap your profile picture.
  3. Go to Settings.
  4. Open the Account section.
  5. Start the verification process.
  6. Scan your ID with the camera if asked.
  7. Confirm your email.

Mobile verification is usually faster because the app uploads ID images directly.

Verification vs User Flair

Verification is not the same as a user flair. A user flair is a tag or label that appears beside your name in a subreddit. You choose it, or a moderator assigns it. Verification does not change your flair or give you a special one. Many communities require flairs for organization, and some require verification for safety. Both features support different parts of Reddit.

How does verification affect NSFW access?

Reddit requires age verification to show NSFW content. If you are not verified, Reddit blocks NSFW posts, searches, and communities. You also need to enable NSFW settings in your profile if you want to view this type of content. Age verification and NSFW preferences work together to control what you can see on the platform.

If you complete verification but still cannot enter NSFW subreddits, you may need to refresh the app or check your content settings.

Reddit Verified
Washington Post is another account that holds the Reddit verified badge (Image Credit: Reditall)

Common Reddit verification problems and fixes

Many users face simple issues during verification. Most of them have quick solutions:

  • Make sure your ID photo is clear and easy to read.
  • Check that your email is verified.
  • Check that your region settings match your ID.
  • Try the mobile app if the desktop version fails.
  • Restart the app to refresh your verification status.

If the system still cannot verify your account, Reddit may ask for another scan.

Does verification improve visibility?

Verification does not increase visibility or ranking. It only helps Reddit confirm that your account is real. Verified accounts can enter more communities, view NSFW content, and face fewer restrictions. Reddit moderators often trust verified accounts more because they reduce the risk of spam.

Verification is useful for any active Reddit user because it improves access and helps prevent posting limits.

FAQ about the Reddit verified badge

Do you need Reddit verification to use Reddit?

You can use Reddit without verification, yet some communities may limit your access. Verified accounts can enter restricted subreddits and view NSFW posts.

Why is Reddit asking me to verify my identity?

Reddit asks for identity verification to confirm your age or to secure your account. This request appears when you try to join age-restricted communities or change certain content settings.

Can I get verified without an ID?

You need a valid ID for age verification. Simple email confirmation is not enough for NSFW access or restricted communities.

How long does Reddit verification take?

Most accounts receive verification within a few minutes. Some checks take longer because the system needs a clearer scan or more information.

Does Reddit Verified give me extra features?

Verification does not give extra features. It only removes restrictions and improves access to communities that require verified accounts.

Why did my verification fail?

Verification fails when the ID photo is unclear or unreadable. It can also fail when your email is not confirmed or your region does not match your ID.

Can I lose my verified status?

You can lose verification if Reddit detects incorrect information or if you delete your email. You can restart the process through account settings.

Does verification increase karma or visibility?

Verification does not affect karma or visibility. Your posts rank the same way. Verification only confirms that your account is real and meets Reddit’s rules.

Do moderators see that I am verified?

Moderators can see verification signals in moderation tools. This helps them filter bots and manage restricted threads more effectively.

Is Reddit verification safe?

Reddit uses secure systems to process ID checks. The platform stores only the data required for verification and deletes the rest after the review.

By Onur Demirkol

Find more about him at onurdemirkol.com