Resources / Director
Companies House Director Identity Verification Explained
By Deevan Naveed · October 2026 · 8 min read
Companies House director identity verification is the process by which a company director proves their identity to Companies House and receives a personal code. This article explains the full process, why it exists and what it means for directors.
Why directors must verify
Before ECCTA, anyone could be listed as a director without proving their identity. This enabled fraudulent registrations, identity theft and the misuse of company structures. Director identity verification ensures that every person on the register is who they claim to be.
What the verification involves
Director identity verification is a one-time process that involves:
- Submitting a valid photo identity document
- Providing personal details that match the Companies House register
- Completing a liveness check (real-time photo or video)
- Receiving an 11-character personal code
- Providing the code for each directorship held
The two verification routes
Directors can verify through:
- GOV.UK One Login - free, but only UK passport or driving licence accepted
- An ACSP - broader document acceptance, guided support, available for international directors
Companies House ID Verification provides an ACSP route for £19 per director.
Deadlines for directors
- New directors (appointed after 18 November 2025): must verify before appointment is registered
- Existing directors: must verify by November 2026
What happens after verification
After receiving your personal code, you provide it through the company’s confirmation statement. The code links your verified identity to your directorship on the register. If you hold multiple directorships, provide it for each one.
What if you do not verify?
After the deadline, unverified directors will have a public notation on the register, face restrictions on appointments and filings, and risk criminal liability for acting as a director without verification.
Start your director verification through Companies House ID Verification, or read our FAQ for more information.