What is an ID check?
Verification that the candidate is the person they claim to be, using a government-issued document and (optionally) biometric matching.
In short: An ID check confirms the candidate is the person on the document they provide. It combines document verification (is the passport real?) with biometric matching (is the face on the passport the same person uploading it?). It is one of the fastest checks we run.
How it works
The candidate provides:
- A photo or scan of a government-issued ID (passport, ID card, or driving licence depending on the country)
- A short video selfie for liveness detection
Our partner provider then runs:
- Document authenticity, checking that the document is not forged (security features, machine-readable zone, expiry, etc.)
- Liveness check, confirming the selfie is a real live person and not a photo of a photo
- Biometric match, comparing the face on the ID to the face in the selfie
If all checks pass, the verification completes automatically. If something fails, the screening pauses and our team reviews manually.
What it does and does not prove
It proves: the candidate possesses a valid ID and the face on that ID matches them.
It does not prove: their name has not been legally changed (we use the ID’s current name), or that they have no other identities in other countries (a separate concern if relevant to the role).
For deeper identity verification beyond what a single ID can prove, ask us about combined identity assurance packages.
Edge cases
- Damaged documents: if the ID has visible damage that prevents reading the security features, we will ask for a clearer scan or alternative ID
- Multiple legal names: some candidates have legally changed names (e.g. after marriage). We use the current ID, but you can ask for verification of name history if relevant
- Children: ID checks on minors follow specific consent procedures involving parents or guardians
- Refugees or stateless individuals: alternative ID processes apply. We work with each candidate individually in these cases
Privacy
The ID document scan and selfie are anonymised after the check completes. We retain only the verified outcome. See how we protect your data for the full retention story.
Related articles
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We offer 15+ check types. The right mix depends on the role, the sector, and what is legally proportionate. Here is the full menu.
What is pre-employment screening?
A background check run before someone joins your organisation. It verifies the facts on their CV before any offer is finalised.
Giving consent as a candidate
You've been asked to complete a Pescheck screening. Here is exactly what consent means, what we will ask you for, and your rights at every step.
