Tips for passing the online ID check

As part of your DBS application, you’ll need to complete an online identity check. This involves uploading three accepted identity documents and completing a biometric face-scan (a selfie or short video) so your identity can be matched securely. This check is carried out by Yoti, a certified digital-identity service provider (IDSP) used by Personnel Checks.

Most applicants pass this stage without any issues. However, if the online check fails, you’ll need to have your documents verified in person at a Post Office branch.

The tips below will help you prepare properly, reduce the chance of errors, and give you the best possible chance of passing the verification on your first attempt. Make sure you’re fully ready before you begin, as incomplete sessions may time out and be rejected.

• Have your three required ID documents ready. These must come from the list of acceptable documents and meet all DBS requirements.

• The details on all three documents must match exactly the name, date of birth, and address you entered on your application — no nicknames, shortened versions, or spelling differences.

• Make sure all documents are valid, in date, and original.

• It’s a good idea to have an additional backup document in case one of your chosen three isn’t accepted.

• Lay the document flat on a table in good natural light.

• Ensure all four corners are visible, and there is no glare, shadow, or blur.

• Take your time: make sure the image is clear, in focus, and both sides are uploaded if required.

• Check that the document type you select matches what you upload (e.g. only select “passport” if you are uploading your passport).
  

• Use bright, even lighting with no harsh shadows.

• Remove glasses, hats, or anything that could obscure your face (unless required for religious or medical reasons).

• Hold your head straight, look at the camera, and follow the on-screen instructions slowly and carefully.

• The ID document is expired or not supported for digital verification.

• The name, date of birth, or address on the ID does not match the details on your application (e.g. “Sam” vs “Samuel”).

• The uploaded photo is blurry, cropped, glare-affected, or missing corners.

• The selfie/face-scan fails because of poor lighting, face obstruction, or liveness-check issues.

• The session is abandoned, timed out, or interrupted.
  

• Review the reason for the failure. Often, simply correcting the issue (e.g. better lighting, retaking the photo, or using a different document) allows you to pass on your next attempt.

• If your second attempt is unsuccessful, you will need to complete in-person verification at a Post Office branch, following the DBS in-branch verification process.