Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods and systems for generating random numbers. In one embodiment, a quantum random number generator comprises: a state generator configured to generate a quantum system in a coherent state; a polarization states analyzer configured to project the quantum system onto one of four different polarization states, and detect each of the four different polarization states; a raw bit generator configured to convert the quantum system into a single photon and detect the single photon in either a first polarization state that corresponds to a first binary number or a second polarization state that corresponds to a second binary number; and a system control configured to receive signals from the polarization states analyzer and the raw bit generator, the signals corresponding to the polarization states, and output a random number based on the first and second polarization states of the single photon.