Opening a bank account without photo ID is possible depending on the bank and the type of account you’re after. Ultimately, banks have to check who you are, but they can choose what evidence to accept.
Some will let you use other documents – like an official letter – especially if you’re opening in branch. Online and app-only banks will ask for photo ID along with proof of address – Zopa’s current account, Biscuit, always does.
Here's what you might be able to use instead of photo ID for some banks, which accounts to try, and what to do if you're turned down.
For the standard list of documents you generally need to open a bank account, read our guide on how to open a bank account in the UK.
Why banks ask for photo ID in the first place
UK anti-money-laundering rules mean banks have to confirm you are who you say you are. Many ask for photo ID because they can easily compare the photo with your face.
The rules give banks some flexibility over which evidence they accept, which is why other documents can work.
What you can use instead of photo ID
Every bank has its own list, so check their website, give them a call, or ask in-branch first. Here are the types of document some banks might accept instead of photo ID:
Official letters from government bodies
A letter that shows your name and address, from an organisation like:
HMRC
the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or Jobcentre Plus
your local council
Letters about your benefits, State Pension, Blue Badge or immigration status can work too. How recent they need to be depends on the bank, so check the dates – and whether a document counts as proof of identity or only proof of address – before you apply.
A letter from someone who knows you
Some banks might accept a letter confirming who you are and where you live from someone in a position of trust, like your GP or your employer.
Others will take letters from prison governors, homeless shelters and domestic abuse refuges. Letters are often only an option if you can't provide the usual documents, so check with the bank first.
Birth certificates and other documents
Birth certificates might be accepted as proof of identify, but usually only for children's accounts. If your bank does accept birth certificates as proof of identity for adults, they’ll likely still need proof of address – a tenancy agreement or a statement from another bank can help back that up.
If in doubt, take all the relevant documents you have to the branch and staff can pick the combination that works.
It's also worth registering to vote if you're eligible, as some banks use the electoral register in their checks.
Which accounts you can open without photo ID
Basic bank accounts
Nine major banks and building societies are legally required to offer basic bank accounts to people who don’t qualify for a standard bank account. You can’t get an overdraft with one, but you can still get paid into it, set up Direct Debits and pay with a debit card.
Eligibility depends on your circumstances, and you’d still need to meet their identity and other legal checks, but a basic bank account might be an option if you don’t have photo ID.
Our guide to getting a bank account with a bad credit score explains more about basic bank accounts, and MoneyHelper has this explainer.
Applying in branch vs online
Most online applications ask for photo ID and a selfie. If there is the option to apply in a branch, staff can look at your other documents and talk you through what they can accept. Some banks let you start online and show or post documents later, but you might still need photo ID to finish applying.
Why app-only banks usually need photo ID
With no branch to visit, app-only banks match a photo of your ID to a selfie, which is how Biscuit works – here's more about how Zopa verifies your identity.
To open Biscuit, you'll need photo ID and proof of address. We accept passports (except emergency, temporary and diplomatic ones), driving licences (including provisional ones) and internationally recognised national ID cards or residence permits – here’s the full list of accepted documents.
Prepaid card and e-money accounts
If you’re applying for a prepaid card or e-money account, you might be able to use an alternative to photo ID. Features of these accounts vary: some let you receive payments or offer Direct Debits, but a simple prepaid card might not.
It’s always a good idea to check the provider’s identity requirements, features, fees and limits before you apply. A heads up: as they aren't bank accounts, your money isn't protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
How to open a bank account without photo ID: step by step
Gather every ID and address document you have. Think letters from HMRC, the DWP or your council, benefits or State Pension letters.
Ask about a supporting letter if you need one. Some banks accept a letter from a GP, social worker or employer – ask what it needs to say first.
Choose a bank that offers basic accounts and check how to apply. Check its website for the documents it accepts, or call ahead.
Ask about a basic account if a standard one is refused. Some banks only consider you for one when you apply for a standard account.
Still stuck? Ask for help. If you're turned down, ask why, or ask to see the manager in branch. You can apply elsewhere or make a complaint, and Citizens Advice can help you decide what to do next.
What if you don't have proof of address either?
Lots of people without photo ID don't have bills in their name. Some banks might accept official letters, or one from a hostel, refuge or support worker. Other banks work with homeless charities to help people who don’t have a fixed address get a bank account.
Getting photo ID so you have more choice
The simplest way to open up your options is to get photo ID. We know it costs money, so it isn't a route for everyone. Getting a passport is one route, or a provisional driving licence also counts as photo ID – if you're eligible, you can apply for one on GOV.UK (Northern Ireland has a separate process).
Once you have photo ID, you can apply for an account online. If you'd like to give Zopa’s Biscuit bank account a go, you can apply in the Zopa app in minutes, subject to checks.
Open a Biscuit bank account
Apply in minutes with the Zopa app.
Frequently asked questions
Can I open an online bank account without ID? +–
Not usually. Most online applications ask for photo ID and a selfie, and Zopa’s current account Biscuit always does. Some banks may be able to confirm your identity by checking your details against other records, but if that doesn’t work, you’ll need photo ID. Opening an account in branch is worth trying.
What ID can I use if I don't have a photo ID? +–
Some banks might accept letters from HMRC, the DWP, your council, or about your benefits, State Pension or Blue Badge. A letter from a GP, social worker or support worker may also work. Each bank sets its own list, so check specific requirements with the bank.
Do banks accept birth certificates as ID? +–
Birth certificates are more commonly accepted for children's accounts. For an adult account, check with the bank first – they may not accept a birth certificate, even alongside proof of address. If they do, take it to the branch with any other relevant documents you have.
