How to use your IDPC code on GOV.UK

1. Get your IDPC code

After your Smart Passport Photo order is processed and your photo passes all compliance checks, we email you an IDPC code along with your downloadable photo.

2. Start your application on GOV.UK

Go to the GOV.UK passport application service and begin (or continue) your application as normal — personal details, address, previous passport information, etc.

3. Choose 'I have a code from a Post Office or photo provider'

When you reach the photo step, GOV.UK will offer a choice between uploading a photo and entering a code. Select the option to enter a digital photo code.

4. Enter the IDPC code exactly as provided

Type or paste the code exactly as it appears in your Smart Passport Photo email, including any letters, numbers and dashes. GOV.UK will retrieve your photo automatically and show a preview.

5. Confirm and continue

Check the preview matches your photo, then continue with the rest of your application. The IDPC code confirms your photo already meets HMPO's requirements, so there's nothing further to do for the photo step.

IDPC code vs uploading a photo file

GOV.UK's online passport application offers two ways to provide your photo: uploading an image file directly, or entering a code from an approved photo provider. An IDPC code is generally more reliable — because the photo behind the code has already been validated against HMPO's digital photo standards by the provider, GOV.UK doesn't need to run its own automated checks on a file you upload, which is where many self-uploaded photos get flagged for issues like resolution, file format or background colour.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Code not recognised: re-check for typos, especially between similar characters like 0/O or 1/I/l, and ensure there are no extra spaces before or after the code.
• Code expired: IDPC codes are typically valid for 30 days from issue. If yours has expired before you finished your application, contact us and we can usually reissue a new code from your existing photo at no extra cost.
• Preview doesn't look right: if the photo GOV.UK displays doesn't match what you expected, stop and contact us with your order number before continuing — don't proceed with an incorrect photo.
• Started the application before ordering: that's fine — IDPC codes can be entered at the photo step whenever you reach it, even if you started your application days or weeks earlier.