What Is a Personal Code?
Companies House now requires directors to verify their identity and obtain a Personal Code before they can file certain documents. Your Personal Code is a unique alphanumeric identifier that looks something like this:
A9Z-67A6-2320You'll need this code when incorporating a new limited company, filing a Confirmation Statement (CS01), and increasingly for other Companies House filings — so it's important to get it sorted early.
How to Get Your Personal Code
You can verify your identity and obtain your Personal Code using the official GOV.UK service. The process involves confirming your identity using a valid passport or driving licence, along with a selfie. Once verified, you'll typically receive your Personal Code straight away.
Verify your identity for Companies HouseOur Top Tip: Use a Laptop and a Phone Together
Many of our clients have found the easiest approach is to start the process on a laptop or desktop, then use your phone for the ID scan. Here's how:
Start on your laptop or desktop — open the GOV.UK link above and begin the verification process.
Scan the QR code with your phone — when it asks you to photograph your passport or driving licence and take a selfie, use your mobile to scan the QR code displayed on screen.
Complete the ID check on your phone — take photos of your document and your selfie using your phone's camera.
Go back to your computer — once the mobile step is complete, return to your laptop or desktop to receive your Personal Code.
This two-device approach avoids the fiddly process of trying to do everything on a phone, and our clients consistently say it makes the whole thing much smoother.
When Will I Need My Personal Code?
Company Formation — All new directors must provide their Personal Code when incorporating a limited company.
Confirmation Statements (CS01) — Directors are required to verify their identity as part of the annual filing process.
Other Companies House filings — Increasingly, filings will require verified identity — so it's best to get ahead of this now.
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Common Questions
What login do I use for the verification?
We'd recommend creating a brand new Companies House account — it's often the cleanest way to get your ID verified. You can use any email address to set this up. Head to the GOV.UK identity verification page and follow the steps to create a new account.
The system won't recognise my ID — what should I do?
This can happen occasionally with the automated system. If you're stuck, get in touch with us — as an ACSP (Authorised Corporate Service Provider) we can verify your identity on your behalf. There is a small charge for this service, so it's always best to try the Companies House version first where possible.
I've already verified — how do I find my code?
If you've already verified your identity, simply visit the GOV.UK identity verification page and log in with the account you used previously. This should take you to your dashboard, which displays your Personal Code.
I'm setting up a new company — do I need to do this first?
Yes. Before you can set up a limited company, all new directors are required to verify their identity with Companies House and have their Personal Code ready before a company can be incorporated.
How long does the verification take?
The verification process usually takes around 10 minutes if you have your passport or driving licence to hand. In most cases, you'll receive your Personal Code straight away.