Frequently asked questions about GovPass

What is GovPass?

The GovPass programme is responsible for delivering a high level of encryption technology to Access Control Systems (ACS) across government buildings. This technology means GovPass holders have a more secure, single pass that can be used across the government estate wherever GovPass technology has been adopted.

Staff who have a valid business need, and who have been authorised by their departments, can follow a clear process to enrol for and work from other buildings across the government property portfolio with a single, authenticated building access card.

GovPass technology does not rely on any one supplier of ACS, and can typically be added to both legacy and replacement access control systems.

This flexibility helps facilitate greater interoperability and more secure, collaborative and productive working between cross-government professions and teams.

The GovPass Programme is responsible only for the rollout of GovPass technology across government. GovPass relies on an ecosystem of government departments and teams working together to ensure the right processes, policies and ways of working support the technology.

How does GovPass work?
From a customer’s perspective, a GovPass works in a similar way to a normal building card, allowing staff to access their building.

The additional capability of a GovPass is that staff who require access to other government buildings that have also adopted GovPass can enrol their GovPass in multiple buildings, provided they meet the building’s entry requirements, for example, clearance level. All that will be required is a simple one-time enrolment process with the local Pass Office.

At sites that have not yet adopted GovPass, existing Common Civil Service Pass (CCSP) protocols will continue to be in effect.

Staff can also use their GovPass to access printers in many government buildings.

I am interested in finding out more about GovPass
Please email enquiries.govpass@gpa.gov.uk. Tell us what you’d like to know and a member of the GovPass team will contact you.

I work in a Pass Office and need to order more cards
Request an order form from govpassorders@cabinetoffice.gov.uk and return to the same email address together with the purchase order to order more cards.

I work in a Pass Office and need to report an issue
You can send an email to support@govpass.security.gov.uk to report an issue.

I am an access control system vendor interested in finding out more about GovPass criteria
You can send an email to enquiries.govpass@gpa.gov.uk. Tell us what you’d like to know and a member of the GovPass team will contact you to set up a call.

I have a GovPass and need some help
If you are a GovPass user and need help regarding your GovPass – including your PIN – please contact your building’s Pass Office.