Companies House ID Check Not Working: Troubleshooting Guide

If the Companies House ID check is not working for you, this systematic troubleshooting guide will help you identify and fix the problem. We cover technical issues, document problems and register discrepancies in order of likelihood.

Quick checks first

Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, confirm these basics:

• Are you using the correct verification service? (GOV.UK One Login for UK passport/driving licence, or an ACSP for other documents)
• Is your identity document current and not expired?
• Do you have a stable internet connection?
• Is your browser up to date?

Technical troubleshooting

Browser issues

1. Update your browser to the latest version
2. Clear your browser cache and cookies
3. Disable browser extensions, particularly ad blockers and privacy tools
4. Try a different browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge or Firefox)
5. If using mobile, try switching to a desktop browser or vice versa

Camera and device issues

1. Check that your browser has camera permission
2. Close other applications that might be using the camera
3. If using a laptop with a built-in camera, ensure nothing is covering the lens
4. Try using your phone camera instead of a webcam (or vice versa)

Network issues

1. Switch from mobile data to Wi-Fi (or vice versa)
2. Disable your VPN if you are using one
3. Move closer to your Wi-Fi router
4. Try again at a time with less network congestion

Document troubleshooting

1. Confirm your document is not expired
2. Retake the document photo: flat surface, even lighting, no glare, all edges visible
3. Ensure the machine-readable zone is completely visible and legible
4. Use a passport rather than a driving licence if both are available (passports have a higher acceptance rate)

Register troubleshooting

1. Search for your company on the Companies House register
2. Compare your recorded name character by character with your identity document
3. Check your recorded date of birth
4. Confirm your role (director, PSC, etc.) is listed as current
5. If any details are wrong, file the appropriate correction form before retrying

Still not working?

If you have worked through all the above and the ID check still is not working:

• Try a different verification route (switch between GOV.UK One Login and ACSP)
• Contact the verification provider’s support team
• Consider using a guided verification service that can help identify the specific issue

Get guided support

Companies House ID Verification provides a guided service with document checks to prevent common issues. Fixed £19 fee per person. Check the requirements and start your verification.