The Labour government under Andy Burnham has announced new regulations allowing businesses in England and Wales to adopt digital proof of age methods when selling alcohol. From September 15, licenced premises including pubs, music venues, shops, and restaurants will be able to offer customers a secure and convenient digital alternative to physical identification for age verification.
This initiative aims to make age-checks quicker, easier, and more secure for both customers and staff. Customers will have the option to use certified apps on their smartphones to prove they are over 18, without the need to carry or physically present traditional ID documents.
The introduction of these new rules follows a government consultation conducted earlier in 2024. Stephanie Peacock, Labour’s Digital Government Minister, explained, “From pubs and restaurants to music venues and festivals, licensed businesses carry out millions of age checks every year. It will remain an individual or business choice whether to adopt this system, and physical ID will continue to be an accepted form of age verification.”
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She added, “This groundbreaking change means people no longer have to carry physical ID or reveal sensitive personal details such as name or address to prove their age, helping everyone feel safer when out at night.”
Industry leaders have welcomed the changes. Allen Simpson, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, said, “Introducing digital proof of age is a positive step for hospitality, providing greater flexibility and convenience for customers and businesses. The voluntary rollout will simplify the experience for customers, allowing secure age verification via their phones. We look forward to working with the Government to ensure the scheme is cost-effective and not burdensome for the sector.”
Julian David OBE, CEO of techUK, commented, “We welcome the establishment of digital identity as a trusted method for proving age during alcohol purchases. It demonstrates the practical benefits of robust digital identity services, reducing friction while maintaining high security and privacy standards. This development is supported by the UK’s dynamic digital verification sector, valued at over £2 billion annually, and the UK’s DVS Trust Framework, which techUK has collaborated on closely with the government to develop.”