In our weekly legal column, the Leader, with the expert advice of the team at GHP Legal, sets out to answer some of your problems. Today's question is answered by licensed conveyancer Clare Lewis...

Client Care letter queries regarding ID requirements

Q: I have some questions about a request I received in a Client Care letter to provide ID. Firstly, I have been asked to provide photographic identification, but as I have never owned a passport and I only have the old-style paper driving licence, what am I supposed to do? Secondly, I have provided ID previously which I know is still on file, so I don't understand why the original ID is no longer acceptable? I now live nearly 100 miles away, so presenting anything in person to prove who I am is difficult.

A: When photographic identification is required, it needs to be provided with something that shows your signature. This is why a passport or driving licence are ideal. However, it is possible to accept a bus pass as photographic identification, along with a copy of the back and front of a bank card which will confirm your signature. Alternatively, there is a form called an ID1 which your solicitor can complete as a certificate of identity. To accompany the ID1 you will need to provide two types of proof of residency, together with a passport-sized photograph, such as you can obtain in a shopping centre booth.

In respect of your ID having been previously provided and retained on file, this could still be acceptable provided you are still living at the same address. However, as you have indicated that you have moved home since providing ID, you would need to provide an up-to-date proof of residency that is no more than three-months-old. This could be a bank statement or utilities bill. If you are unable to take this in person to the office requesting it, a local firm of solicitors would be able to take certified copies for you that you can then send on.

• This question has been answered by Clare Lewis, a licensed conveyancer with GHP Legal. If you would like to speak to someone about this or any other legal matter, please visit our website www.ghplegal.com and use the contact us form, or call us on: Wrexham 01978 291456, Llangollen 01978 860313, Oswestry 01691 659194.