ID1 vs ID2 vs ID5: Key Differences Explained

Three similar names, three different jobs. So here is the clearest way to tell the ID1, ID2 and ID5 forms apart — and to work out which ones your transaction actually needs.

The one-minute answer

ID1 verifies a private individual. ID2 verifies a company or corporate body. ID5 is different from both — it is not a form you choose, but a record the professional completes when your identity check happens by video call rather than in person. So most people need either an ID1 or an ID2, with an ID5 added automatically if their check is done remotely.

Side-by-side comparison

Every price is fixed, with everything included — see our pricing page for the full breakdown, including overseas verification at £99.

ID1 — for individuals

The ID1 is HM Land Registry’s certificate of identity for a private individual. You will usually need one when you are transferring, gifting or registering property without a conveyancer acting for you. For the full picture, see our guide: What Is an ID1 Form? — or read about our ID1 verification service.

ID2 — for companies

The ID2 does the same job for a company or other corporate body. Because a company cannot attend an appointment itself, the form verifies the director or authorised representative acting on its behalf. So if your company is dealing with property without a conveyancer, this is your form — see our ID2 Form Explained guide, or our ID2 verification service.

ID5 — the video call form

The ID5 confirms to HM Land Registry that your identity was checked remotely, over video, rather than face to face. It is completed by the professional, not by you, and it always accompanies an ID1 or an ID2 — never travels alone. So you never need to “choose” ID5 on its own; it simply gets added when your check happens remotely. For the full detail, see our guide: ID5 Video Verification Explained — or our ID5 verification page.

Which form do you need?

Ask yourself who HM Land Registry needs to verify. If it is you as an individual — ID1. If it is your company — ID2. And if your check happens by video call, which is how we work, the professional adds an ID5 alongside whichever form applies to you, at no extra cost.

Common questions

Can I use the same appointment for ID1 and ID2?

Yes, if you personally need both — for example, a director acting for their company (ID2) who is also party to the transaction in their own name (ID1). Just tell us when you book, so we can allow for both forms.

How much does each form cost with ID1 Verify?

ID1 and ID2 verification are £79 per person with us. Because the ID5 is completed during the same video appointment, there is no separate charge for it. For overseas customers, verification is a fixed £99.

Do I download all three forms?

No — only your ID1 or ID2. Because the ID5 is completed by the solicitor during your call, there is nothing for you to download or fill in for it. You can get the official forms from our forms download guide.

Does an in-person check still need an ID5?

No. The ID5 exists specifically to record remote, video-based checks. So if your identity were verified face to face, no ID5 would be involved — but with our service, every check is by video, so the ID5 is always part of the package.

How your video verification works

1. Book a time. Book online now and pay securely, or message us on WhatsApp first if you have a question — same-day, evening and weekend appointments are often available.
2. Verify by video call. Then a solicitor checks your ID on a short, secure call. This is the ID5 process.
3. Get your forms. So your signed, stamped ID1 or ID2, together with the ID5, are sent to you the same day.
4. Send to Land Registry. Then submit your forms alongside the rest of your application.