UK Sort Code Validator
Validate any British sort code instantly — format, Vocalink modulus check, and PayUK registry lookup.
Validate a Sort Code →A UK sort code is a 6-digit number (format XX-XX-XX) that identifies a bank branch in the United Kingdom. Sort codes are required for all BACS, CHAPS, and Faster Payments transactions. BankValidor validates the format, runs the Vocalink modulus checking algorithm (used by PayUK), and verifies the sort code against the UK official branch register.
UK Sort Code Format
Sort codes are 6-digit numbers typically written in the format XX-XX-XX, where the first two digits identify the bank, the next two identify the region, and the last two identify the branch.
How Sort Code Validation Works
Enter Sort Code
Type or paste the 6-digit sort code (with or without dashes) that you want to validate.
Modulus Check
We apply the Vocalink modulus 10 and 11 algorithms and cross-reference the PayUK sort code register.
Instant Result
Get the bank name, branch address, and confidence level — VALID, WARNING, or INVALID.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a UK sort code?
A sort code is a 6-digit number that identifies a specific bank and branch in the United Kingdom. It is used for domestic transfers via BACS (3-5 days), Faster Payments (same-day), and CHAPS (same-day for high-value). Sort codes always appear alongside a UK account number (8 digits).
Where do I find a sort code?
Your sort code is printed on your debit card, bank statement, or in your online banking app. It usually appears in the format XX-XX-XX. It is also visible within your IBAN if you have one — for UK IBANs, the sort code occupies positions 5-10.
What is the Vocalink modulus check?
The Vocalink modulus check is an algorithm published by PayUK that validates sort code and account number combinations. It applies weighted sum calculations (modulus 10 or 11) to detect transposition errors and invalid combinations. BankValidor applies this check automatically.
Is a sort code the same as an IBAN?
No. A sort code identifies the bank branch, while an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) is used for international transfers within the SEPA zone. A UK IBAN is 22 characters long and encodes the sort code and account number in a standardised format: GBkk BBBB SSSS SSAA AAAA AA.
Ready to validate?
Enter any UK sort code and get an instant result with bank name, branch, and registry status.
Validate a Sort Code →