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When Google offers video verification, it asks the business to show that it exists and operates as represented on the profile. The evidence requested differs for storefront, service-area, and hybrid businesses.
Preparation is mainly about matching the recording to the business model and the prompts shown in the profile. The tips below explain the documented requirements and practical ways to organize the recording.
What Video Verification Is
Google's video-verification instructions require a live, unedited, continuous recording of at least 30 seconds. The video should show the location, that the business exists, and that the person recording is authorized to manage it; the specific evidence varies by business type.
Record and upload the video from a mobile device through the Business Profile. Pre-recorded or separately edited footage does not meet Google's instructions.
Show Real Operational Evidence
One of the most important Google Business Profile verification tips is to show evidence that reflects how the business actually operates. Depending on the business type, this may include:
- Exterior and interior of the location
- Day-to-day workspace
- Active tools or equipment
- Visible business activity
These are examples of supporting evidence, not a checklist that guarantees approval. Show only evidence that accurately reflects the business's normal operation.
Business Vehicles
For a service-area business, a vehicle used for work can support the evidence of business operations. If the business genuinely uses a branded vehicle, showing it may help connect the recording to the business.
- Branding or business name visible on the vehicle
- License plates and vehicle condition consistent with normal use
- Equipment loaded inside if relevant to the service
Signage
For storefront and hybrid businesses, Google asks for evidence of a physical location, such as surrounding street signs, a building number, nearby landmarks, and permanent on-site signage. When relevant, clearly capture:
- Exterior business signs
- Suite or unit numbers
- Street signs near the location
- Door or window branding
A business without permanent on-site signage is not eligible to be represented as a storefront. If it does not serve customers at its address, Google's service-area guidance says the address should be removed from the public profile and the business should use a service area instead.
Tools And Equipment
Showing the tools and equipment a business actually uses can help reinforce the type of work being performed. Examples may include:
- Trade tools used on jobs
- Specialty equipment
- Inventory or supplies
- Workshop or staging area
Workspace Access
Google asks for proof that the person recording is authorized to represent the business. Depending on the business, this may include access to employee-only areas, business equipment, or systems used to operate the business.
Keep Information Consistent
Before recording, it can help to review the business information shown publicly so the video matches what Google already sees. Useful things to confirm:
- Business name matches what is on the profile
- Address or service areas match what is published
- Phone number on signage or vehicles matches the profile
- Website information lines up with the profile
Google's guidelines for representing a business require the profile to reflect the business accurately and consistently in the real world.
Avoid Staged Or Misleading Content
Businesses should not create scenes that misrepresent normal operations. Borrowed signage, vehicles, or premises do not demonstrate how the business actually operates and may conflict with Google's representation guidelines. If a profile is suspended, our suspension recovery page explains the separate appeal process.
Stay Organized
Verification often goes more smoothly when the business is organized ahead of time. A few things that can help:
- Have business documentation accessible if Google requests follow-up
- Plan the order of what you intend to film
- Record in steady lighting so details are visible
- Keep the video unedited and record it in one continuous take
- Exclude sensitive information and other people's faces
If verification continues to run into issues, our verification support page outlines how we typically approach these cases. Google's verification overview explains that Google determines the available methods and that options can vary by profile.
If you're unsure whether your profile is fully optimized before attempting verification, a Google Business Profile Review & Action Plan can help identify any issues first.