Companies House ID Verification: Step-by-Step Guide

This Companies House ID verification step-by-step guide breaks the entire process down into clear stages. Whether you are a director, PSC, LLP member or authorised filer, these steps apply to you.

Before you start

Gather the following before beginning your Companies House ID verification:

• A valid photo identity document - passport, national ID card or driving licence
• Your full name as it appears on both your ID and the Companies House register
• Your date of birth and current residential address
• The company number for each company where you hold a role
• A device with a camera (smartphone or laptop) for the liveness check

Step 1: Choose your verification method

You have two options:

• GOV.UK One Login - free, self-service, limited to UK passport or UK driving licence
• An ACSP - a verified agent who accepts a wider range of documents, including international passports

Companies House ID Verification offers an ACSP-supported route for a fixed £19 per person. It is particularly useful for overseas applicants or anyone without a UK passport or driving licence.

Step 2: Create an account or sign in

If you are using GOV.UK One Login, create or sign in to your account at the government service. If you are using Companies House ID Verification, create an account on our website and select the verification service for your role.

Step 3: Enter your personal details

Provide your full legal name, date of birth, nationality, residential address and the details of the company role you need to verify. Double-check that your name matches the Companies House register exactly - differences in spelling, middle names or titles can cause problems later.

Step 4: Upload your identity document

Take a clear photo or scan of your identity document and upload it. The document must be current (not expired) and the details must be legible. For passports, this means the photo page.

Step 5: Complete the liveness check

The liveness check confirms that you are the person shown on the identity document. You will be asked to take a real-time photo or short video using your device’s camera. This step prevents someone else from using your document to verify in your name.

Step 6: Wait for verification

Your identity document and liveness check are reviewed. Through Companies House ID Verification, most straightforward verifications are completed within the same working day. If additional checks are needed, you will be kept informed.

Step 7: Receive your personal code

When verification is complete, you receive your 11-character Companies House personal code. Store it securely - you will need it for the next step and for future company filings.

Step 8: Link your code to your company roles

Log in to the Companies House online service and provide your personal code for each role you hold. Directors typically do this through the confirmation statement. PSCs use the dedicated PSC code service. The code must be linked separately for each company.

Read the official Companies House guidance for full instructions on linking your code.

Common issues to watch for

• Name mismatches - your ID name must match the Companies House register. Update the register first if there is a discrepancy.
• Expired documents - only current, valid documents are accepted.
• Poor image quality - make sure your document photo is clear and well-lit.
• Multiple roles - verify once, but link your code to each role individually.

Ready to begin?

Start your Companies House ID verification now. The guided process at Companies House ID Verification costs £19, supports international documents, and walks you through every step.