What ID Do I Need for Companies House Verification?

What ID do you need for Companies House verification? The answer depends on which verification route you use and where you live. This guide helps you quickly determine which ID you need based on your specific situation.

If you hold a UK passport

A UK passport is the most versatile document. You can use it on either route:

• GOV.UK One Login — self-service, no cost
• ACSP route — guided service through a provider

If you hold a UK driving licence (but no UK passport)

A UK photocard driving licence works on both routes:

• Full or provisional photocard licences are accepted
• The old paper-only licence is not accepted

If you only hold a foreign passport

You must use the ACSP route. GOV.UK One Login does not accept foreign passports. Your passport must be:

• Current and valid
• Machine-readable (MRZ lines at the bottom)
• From any country

If you do not hold a passport or UK driving licence

This is the most challenging situation. Some ACSPs may accept:

• EEA national identity card (for European nationals)
• UK Biometric Residence Permit

If you do not hold any of these, you will likely need to obtain a passport before you can complete verification. Contact Companies House directly to discuss your options.

Quick reference table

• UK passport holder → GOV.UK One Login or ACSP (your choice)
• UK driving licence only → GOV.UK One Login or ACSP
• Foreign passport only → ACSP route
• EEA national ID card → some ACSPs (check with provider)
• No photo ID → obtain a passport first

Additional information you need (beyond ID)

Regardless of which ID you use, you will also need:

• Your UK company number
• Your current residential address
• Confirmation that your name and date of birth on the Companies House register match your ID
• A device with a camera for the liveness check

Start with the right ID

Companies House ID Verification accepts UK and foreign passports through a guided process at a fixed £19 fee. Visit requirements for detailed document guidance, or start your verification.