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Identification and proof of address requirements

To register as Reader, or to renew or replace a Reader Pass you must provide appropriate identification. We require two original identification documents (no photocopies, faxes or internet printouts):

NB: Utility bills, bank/building society statements, credit card statements, HM revenue and customs statements, state pension books, benefit/family credit books or payslips cannot be older than three months.

We cannot issue a Reader Pass without both forms of identification - no exceptions can be made.

Our identification requirements are subject to change, if in doubt what to bring please contact us.

The documents marked with an asterisk * below can only be used either as proof of address or as proof of your identity; they cannot be used for both.

You should note:

  • Some driving licences and national identity cards do not show address; we are not able to accept these documents.
  • It it is your responsibility to provide official translations for foreign documents, where necessary.
 

Appropriate forms of identification to provide proof of your home address

You will need to show one of the following, which must bear your name and address:

  • Utility Bill (Gas, Electricity, Telephone, Water)
  • Bank/Building Society Statement (no online/bank branch print-offs)
  • Credit Card Statement
  • Council Tax Bill/Council Rent Book
  • HM Revenue and Customs Statement
  • State Pension Book
  • Benefit/Family Credit Book
  • Passports (where the address has been officially entered by the issuing authority)*
  • National Identity Card with address*
  • Driving Licence with address*
  • Home Office permit to stay
  • University Certificate for Hall of Residence (stamped and signed by institution)
  • TV Licence
  • Firearms Licence
  • Home Insurance Policy
  • Pay Slips (where employer’s and employee’s addresses are stated)
 

Appropriate forms of identification to provide proof of your signature

You will need to show one of the following, which must bear your signature:

  • Passport*
  • Driving Licence*
  • Bank Card
  • Credit Card
  • National ID Card*
  • Police/Customs/Home Office/Warrant Card
  • Forces ID card
  • Sea/Air Masters Licence
 

Further information

Reader Registration
The British Library
96 Euston Road
London
NW1 2DB
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)20 7412 7676
Fax: +44 (0)20 7412 7794

E-mail: Reader-Registration@bl.uk

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