Forms of ID: A Guide to Acceptable ID in the UK
Key Takeaways:
- Overview of forms of ID and why they are essential for verifying identity and accessing government services.
- Importance of proof of identity and proof of address for official applications.
- Where and when different identification documents are required, including banking, voting, and legal processes.
- A look at acceptable forms of identification for different purposes in the United Kingdom.
What Are Acceptable Forms of ID?
Proof of identity vs. proof of address – understanding the difference.
Full list of common identity documents used in the UK:
- Passport, Passport card
- EEA member states national identity cards.
- National identity card bearing a photograph of the applicant
- Photo driving licence
- Full old style driving licence
- Photographic registration cards for self-employed individuals in the construction industry (CIS4)
- Benefit book or original notification letter from Benefits Agency (showing your national insurance number.
- Original birth certificate
- Residence permit issued by the Home Office to EEA nationals on sight of own country passport
What are unacceptable forms of ID?
- Provisional driving licence
- Student ID
- Blue badges
Proof of Address: What Documents Are Accepted?
Common proof of address documents:
- Current UK Photo driving licence (If not used for proof of ID)
- Utility bill from the last three months.
- Voter registration card for elections and polling stations
- Bank statements, building society statements and Credit Union Statements.
- Original document – mortgage statement
- Solicitors letter dated within 3 months confirming purchase of house
- Housing association or local authority tenancy agreements.
- Financial statements and society statements.
- Correspondence from the Home Office confirming immigration status.
- Benefit book or original notification letter from Benefits Agency (but not if used as proof of name)
- HMRC self-assessment letters or tax demand dated within the current financial year
- NHS Medical card or letter of confirmation from GP’s practice of registration with the surgery
Is a Council Tax Bill Proof of Address?
Yes ! It is. A local authority council tax bill for the current council tax year is considered a legitimate proof of address.
What are Unacceptable Proof of Address?
- Mobile phone bills
- Credit Card Statements
- Provisional driving licence
Need to Provide Proof of Address?
In addition to your ID, you may also need to show proof of address. Check our full guide on acceptable documents.
View Proof of Address GuideWhere and When You Need Identification Documents
1: Opening a Bank Account
- Banks require proof of identity and current address.
- Accepted documents: passport, photo driving licence, financial statement.
2: Voting and Electoral Register
- Voter registration card and electoral register requirements.
- Acceptable ID at a polling station in elections.
3: Travel and Immigration
- UK passport card and Permanent Resident documents for travel.
- National identity cards for European Economic Area (EEA) citizens.
4: Government Services and Legal Applications
- Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS card) for age verification.
- Acceptable Forms of Identification for benefits, housing, and tax applications.
- Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, Channel Islands – variations in accepted ID.
How to Obtain ID for the First Time
- Steps to apply for a provisional driving licence.
- How to request a certified copy of a birth certificate.
- Registering for a National Insurance number.
- Getting a Proof of Age Card (PASS card).
- Applying for a UK Passport.
How to Keep Your Personal Information Secure
- Do not disclose your financial information and personal information to anyone other than trusted organisations.
- Understanding use of cookies, necessary cookies, and browsing experience on GOV.UK and other websites.
- Limit sharing your phone number and clicking on external links from dubious websites, even if they appear to link to official sources.
How a Notary Can Help with Proof of ID and Proof of Address?
A notary public provides official certified copies of documents, ensuring they meet legal and regulatory standards for KYC checks. Here’s how:
1: Certifying Copies of Proof of ID and Address
A notary verifies that your document is an accurate copy of the original. This involves:
- Checking the original document
- Creating a photocopy
- Attesting that the copy is a true and accurate representation of the original
- Applying a notarial seal and signature
This certification gives businesses and authorities confidence in the document’s authenticity.
And it saves you from sending the original. See our Passport notarized copy page for an explainer.
2: Notarising an Affidavit or Statutory Declaration
If your proof of address is unavailable or does not meet requirements, a notary can prepare an affidavit or statutory declaration, confirming your residential address. This is particularly useful for:
- Expats or international clients without local utility bills
- Individuals living in company-owned or shared accommodation
You should always check with the institution as to whether they accept this form of certification before you proceed.
3: Legalisation and Apostille for International Use
For clients submitting proof of ID and address outside the UK, notarised documents may require:
- Apostille certification from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for international recognition. See our Apostille Service page.
- Embassy legalisation for countries that require further authentication. See our country guide page for more details.
A notary public can assist with apostille services and embassy legalisation to ensure your documents are accepted worldwide.
Who Needs a Notary for Proof of ID and Address?
Notarial certification is useful for individuals and businesses involved in:
- Banking & Finance: Opening accounts, mortgage applications, loan approvals
- Property Transactions: Buying, selling, or renting a property
- Company Formations: Registering a business, appointing directors
- Immigration & Visa Applications: Providing address proof for visa or residency applications
- Legal Matters: Court cases, power of attorney, or estate administration
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a notary certify digital copies of my proof of ID and address?
No, a notary must verify an original document before certifying a copy.
If you only have an electronic document, you must show the notary the platform where the electronic document came from, e.g. a banking app or utility app.
How long does notarisation take?
Most notarisation services are completed on the same day, provided you bring all required documents.
Do banks and financial institutions accept notarised copies?
Yes, notarised copies are widely accepted, but some institutions may have specific formatting requirements—always check in advance.
What is the difference between a solicitor’s certification and a notary’s certification?
While solicitors can certify documents, notaries offer a higher level of verification, often required for international use and legalisation.
