In the UK, different situations require different forms of identification. There are widely recognised guidelines to ensure that your ID is valid. This guide will help you understand which IDs are accepted and when they might need to be notarised or legalised.

Commonly Accepted Forms of ID in the UK

The type of ID you need can vary depending on where you’re using it, but most contexts require a government-issued document/card containing your photo and date of expiry. Below, you’ll find the most widely accepted forms of ID in the UK.

Passport

A valid UK or international passport is almost always accepted as proof of identity and nationality. Whether you’re travelling abroad, starting a new job or visiting an age-restricted venue, you can use your passport as proof of ID.

It’s essential to make sure your passport hasn’t expired. For some purposes, like international travel or visa applications, you’ll need an expiry date of at least three or six months in the future. Additionally, an expired passport cannot be used as proof of identity.

Also, remember to sign your passport on the official observations page. Without your signature, it will likely be rejected as proof of identity.

Driving Licence

A photocard driving licence is often used as an ID, especially for everyday purposes within the UK. If you’re taking a flight, bear in mind that a driving licence can only be used for domestic travel.

A provisional driving licence can be used as ID in many scenarios, such as for voting or registering with a bank.

Check that your driving licence hasn’t expired and is in good condition before using it as ID.

As your driving licence should be up-to-date with your current address, you may wish to use it as proof of address.  Be aware however that many places will require a proof of address issued within 3 months, and so a driving licence may not meet the criteria.

Proof of Age Card

Proof of age cards like a PASS (Proof of Age Standards Scheme) card, including cards issued by schemes such as CitizenCard, are also valid forms of ID for most purposes.

National Identity Card

For those from other EU, EEA, or Swiss countries, a national identity card is usually accepted as proof of identification within the UK.

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

For non-UK residents with permission to live and work in the UK, a biometric residence permit serves as proof of both identity and immigration status.

Requirements for Validity

To be accepted as a valid form of ID, your document must meet these basic conditions:

  • Current and Not Expired – Your ID must be up to date. Expired passports or driving licences are rarely accepted. (There were certain exceptions during the COVID-19 pandemic).
  • Clear and Legible – The ID document must be clear and unaltered. IDs that are damaged, faded, or modified will not be accepted.
  • Photo Matching – For IDs with photos, such as passports and driving licences, you must still resemble your photo, especially if it’s an older ID.
  • Official Issue – The ID must be an official document issued by a recognised government or authority (like the UK Passport Office, the DVLA for driving licences, or similar bodies for national identity cards).

When You Might Need Your ID Notarised

You may need notarisation for your ID if it has been requested by parties in another country. This will involve providing the notary with your original ID such as your passport, driving licence or ID card. The notary will make a colour photocopy and certify it as a true copy of the original either on the copy itself or by attaching a notarial certificate to the copy.

Common situations requiring ID notarisation:

  • You’re doing business abroad and need to go through a KYC (Know Your Customer) process.
  • You’re applying for a job overseas and need to prove your identity but are unable to present your original ID document.
  • You need to provide proof of your driving qualifications in the form of a certified copy of your driving licence.

When You Might Need Your ID Legalised

Once the true copy of your ID has been notarised, you will need an apostille to make it valid in another country. We will submit your ID to the UK’s FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) for legalisation.

If you are sending your ID to a country that is not a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, you will likely also need consular legalisation.  Our dedicated team can handle the process for you.

Summary

Having the correct, valid ID is essential. In most cases, a passport, driving licence, or a valid photo ID card will work. However, notarisation or legalisation are required if an international party requests a certified copy.

Arrange Notarisation and Legalisation of Your ID

Our notaries provide fast and convenient certification of proof of ID, including passports and driving licences. Get in touch today to arrange notarisation and/or legalisation.