Before you start
Make sure you have the following ready:
A valid, in-date passport or driving licence (original document only)
A well-lit room
A neutral surface (like a desk or table) to place your ID on
💡 Avoid patterns or cluttered backgrounds — they might appear in the photo.
Step 1 — Get ready
Find a bright spot, have your ID handy, and open the Checkboard app.
The app will guide you through scanning your document and your face.
Step 2 — Select your ID type
Choose your issuing country.
Select your document type (passport or driving licence).
🌍 For countries outside the UK, only passports are accepted.
Step 3 — Scan your ID
Fit the entire document inside the frame.
Avoid glare, blur, or cropped edges.
Make sure key details like your photo and MRZ (barcode lines) are visible.
Step 4 — Scan your face
Make sure your face is well lit.
Keep your entire face within the frame.
Hold still until the scan completes.
Acceptable documents
Passport (in date)
Driving licence (in date)
🚫 Photocopies, screenshots, or expired IDs cannot be accepted.
If your name has changed (for example, after marriage), please contact our team at [email protected] for assistance.
Using NFC during ID verification
Some ID documents, like e-passports, have an NFC chip that your phone can read automatically.
What is NFC?
NFC (Near Field Communication) allows your phone to securely read your passport’s chip — similar to tapping your card or phone to pay.
If prompted, hold your passport near the back of your phone until the scan completes.
How to enable NFC
For Android:
Go to Settings → Connections / Connected devices
Find NFC and toggle it ON
If you can’t find it, search “NFC” in your Settings
For iPhone (7 or newer):
No need to enable manually — NFC activates automatically when required.
Common questions
What if I don’t have a valid ID?
If you don’t currently have a passport or driving licence, contact your solicitor or estate agent — they can advise on next steps.
You can also scroll to the bottom of the ID screen and tap “I don’t have a valid ID”. A notification will automatically be sent to your solicitor.
What if I don’t have NFC on my phone or passport?
Don’t worry — you can still complete your ID check.
When the app can’t detect a chip, it will automatically let you skip the NFC step.
Follow the prompts to continue and finish your verification.
Why is the app not scanning my ID or face?
Check your internet connection.
Close the app completely (remove it from recent apps) and reopen it.
If it still doesn’t work, reinstall the app and try again.
💡 Tips for a smooth experience
Use a well-lit room and avoid glare.
Place your ID on a plain surface (no reflections or patterns).
Keep your hands and camera steady during the scan.
Ensure your photo and barcode lines are clearly visible.
Need help?
If you still can’t complete your ID verification or encounter a technical issue, contact our support team at [email protected].
If you’re reporting a technical issue, please include:
The email or phone number linked to your Checkboard account
Your solicitor or agency name
The property or task reference, if available
We’ll get back to you as soon as possible to help resolve the issue.