Getting your own Companies House personal code is simple, free, and usually takes just a few minutes.
You only need to do this once (unless your details change), and it’s all handled through the official GOV.UK website using the “Verify your identity for Companies House” service.
For any company filings from 18 Nov 2025, this is MANDATORY for all directors and shareholders of UK companies listed with Companies House.
Quick Links:
Main GOV.UK Guidance (step by step)
Start Your Verification Now
Why Is This Needed
From 18 November 2025, every director and person with significant control (PSC) will need to prove their identity to Companies House. This change is designed to bolster the UK’s defences against fraud, money laundering, and other economic crime.
When Do You Need to Do This?
- Existing directors/PSCs: From 18 November 2025 onwards, your company filings will need to include your personal code. So the actual “when do I need to do this by” depends on when your next filings are due. We suggest that you get your code before 18 November to avoid the rush.
- New directors/PSCs (after 18 Nov 2025): You must verify before appointment, or within 14 days of joining the register.
Before You Start: Quick Checklist
- Personal email address – Use your own email – not a shared work inbox. Shared emails cause login problems.
- Smartphone with camera – Needed for the quickest method (app scan), but other options are available.
- Photo ID ready – Such as a passport or UK photocard driving licence.
How to Verify Your Identity
First off you will need to create a GOV.UK One Login if you do not already have one. Once done you will then be redirected to verify your identify. Use the link below to start the verification process. If you don’t already have a One Login, then this will be created for you along the way.
Option 1. Via the GOV.UK App (Fastest Method)
- Download the “GOV.UK One Login” app to your phone, or begin here.
- Create your One Login account (or login if you already have one)
- Scan your passport or photocard driving licence using your phone.
- Take a quick selfie (live check).
- Complete the address verification steps
- Get issued with your new Companies House Personal Code
Acceptable IDs for the app:
- UK photocard driving licence
- UK passport
- Non-UK biometric passport
- UK Biometric Residence Permit/Card (can be up to 18 months expired)
- UK Frontier Worker permit
Device Requirements:
- iPhone (iOS 15+): iPhone 6s or newer
- Android: Version 10+
Option 2. Post Office In-Branch Route (Offline Option)
- Start online – Use Verify your identity for Companies House → choose at a Post Office when prompted.
- Enter your ID details & pick a branch – GOV.UK emails you a Post Office customer letter (print or show on phone).
- Visit the branch – Hand over the letter and the original photo-ID; staff scan the document and take your picture.
- You’ll usually get the result (and your code) by email the same day. The code also appears in “Manage Account” in your One Login.
Accepted Identity Documents – What Works?
- Biometric or machine-readable passports (any nationality, up to 6 months expired)
- UK/EU photocard driving licence
- EU/EEA/Norway/Iceland/Liechtenstein biometric ID card
- UK BRP/BRC/Frontier Worker permit (up to 18 months expired)
If you’re using the Post Office or manual verification:
- Bring two documents:
After You Verify – Getting & Using Your Code
- Once verified, you’ll see your 12-character personal code on-screen.
- The code will also be stored under “Manage Account” in your GOV.UK One Login.
- From 18 November 2025, you’ll use this code for all Companies House filings. Once you’ve linked it to your directorship or PSC role, it auto-populates future filings.
- Security tip: Treat your code like your tax number – only share it with trusted advisers.
What to Send Us When You’re Done
Once you have your personal code, please send us your 12-character Companies House personal code.
Deadlines – What to Know
- Existing directors/PSCs: From 18 November 2025, you will not be able to file your company’s confirmation statement unless all directors have verified their identity.
- New directors/PSCs: Must provide your code before appointment or within 14 days of being added.
Tips & Common Pitfalls
- Don’t use a shared email – your GOV.UK One Login must have a personal address.
- No smartphone? Use the security-question or Post Office route.
- Overseas directors: A non-UK biometric passport works for the app route. If that fails, the Post Office or our assisted service can help.
- Lost your code? Just sign in at GOV.UK One Login → “Manage Account” → “Personal Code.”
- Peak period warning: Expect a rush close to the deadline. Try to get your code well before November 2026!