OpenAI to Enforce ID Verification for Access to Future AI Models

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, is planning to introduce a mandatory ID verification process for organizations seeking access to certain future AI models, according to a support page published last week.

This new requirement, titled “Verified Organization,” will require organizations to submit a government-issued ID from a country supported by OpenAI’s API. But there’s a catch: “An ID can only verify one organization every 90 days”, and not all organizations will qualify, OpenAI has confirmed.

“At OpenAI, we take our responsibility seriously to ensure that AI is both broadly accessible and used safely,” reads the page. “Unfortunately, a small minority of developers intentionally use the OpenAI APIs in violation of our usage policies. We’re adding the verification process to mitigate unsafe use of AI while continuing to make advanced models available to the broader developer community.”

OpenAI released a new Verified Organization status as a new way for developers to unlock access to the most advanced models and capabilities on the platform, and to be ready for the “next exciting model release”

– Verification takes a few minutes and requires a valid… pic.twitter.com/zWZs1Oj8vE

— Tibor Blaho (@btibor91) April 12, 2025

What’s Driving This Change?

There are two major reasons behind this strategic shift:

Security

OpenAI’s models are becoming more sophisticated, increasing the risk of malicious use, including state-sponsored threats. The company has released reports detailing efforts to block bad actors, including some allegedly based in North Korea.

Intellectual Property Theft

OpenAI has been investigating data exfiltration attempts. One notable case involves a group linked to DeepSeek, a China-based AI lab, which allegedly extracted significant data via the API for model training — a direct violation of OpenAI’s terms. The company subsequently blocked access to its services in China last summer.

Developer Community Reaction

While some developers see the verification as a necessary step to protect powerful AI tools, others worry it may limit access and slow down innovation for smaller organizations.

OpenAI clarified that not all organizations will be eligible, and it’s unclear what criteria will determine eligibility or disqualification.