You should:

Use the original document, not a photo or photocopy
Take the photo in good, even lighting; not too dark or too bright
Avoid shadows or glare on the document
Make sure all text is clear and readable
Check that the document is still valid/not expired
Use a smartphone if you can; it usually works better than a computer webcam

For some types of ID, Vouchsafe will ask you to scan both the front and back. For others, the front only is enough.

Good and bad examples

These examples use a CitizenCard, but the same rules apply to driving licences and other ID cards.

	✅ Acceptable: All text can be read ID card fills the frame with all corners visible No harsh reflections
	❌ Not acceptable: Too far away
	❌ Not acceptable: Text is obscured
	❌ Not acceptable: Harsh reflections obscuring text Too dark

Passports

You need to show the entire photo page of your passport, ensuring all four corners are visible and the ID aligns with the frame that appears over the camera screen.

You do not need to show the facing page.

Here's an example:

Which kinds of photo ID can I request?

Accept unfamiliar photo ID

How to scan my photo ID

Good and bad examples

Passports