What Documents Are Needed for Companies House ID Verification?

Knowing exactly what documents are needed for Companies House ID verification before you start can save time and prevent failed attempts. This guide lists the accepted documents for each verification route and explains what to prepare.

Two verification routes, different document requirements

Companies House identity verification can be completed through two routes, each with different document requirements:

Route 1: GOV.UK One Login

The self-service route through GOV.UK accepts only:

• UK passport — current and valid
• UK photocard driving licence — current and valid (full or provisional)

No other documents are accepted through this route. If you do not hold a current UK passport or UK driving licence, you must use the ACSP route.

Route 2: ACSP (Authorised Corporate Service Provider)

The ACSP route accepts a wider range of identity documents:

• UK passport
• Foreign passport (from any country) — must be current and machine-readable
• UK photocard driving licence
• National identity card (from countries that issue them) — accepted by some ACSPs

The specific documents accepted may vary slightly between ACSPs. Check with your chosen provider before starting.

What your document must have

Regardless of which route you use, your identity document must:

• Be current and valid (not expired)
• Include a photograph of you
• Show your full name
• Show your date of birth
• Be undamaged with all text and the photo clearly visible
• Have a legible machine-readable zone (for passports)

Documents that are NOT accepted

The following are not accepted as primary identity documents for Companies House verification:

• Utility bills or bank statements (these are not proof of identity)
• Birth certificates
• Expired passports or driving licences
• Travel cards or loyalty cards
• Work permits or visa stamps alone
• Student ID cards
• Non-photo identity documents

Additional information you will need

Besides your identity document, have the following ready:

• Your UK company number (8-digit number from Companies House)
• Your current residential address
• Your date of birth as recorded on the Companies House register
• A device with a camera for the liveness check (smartphone, tablet or laptop with webcam)

Check before you start

Before beginning verification, confirm that your name and date of birth on the Companies House register match your identity document exactly. Mismatches are the most common cause of verification failure.

Start your verification

Companies House ID Verification provides a guided service with clear document guidance, at a fixed £19 fee per person. Check the detailed requirements and begin your verification.