Licensed venues across England and Wales can now accept digital proof of age for alcohol sales following new regulations that came into force on Tuesday, September 15.
Pubs, restaurants, music venues, and retailers may voluntarily adopt certified digital identification apps, allowing customers to verify they are over 18 without presenting physical documents like passports or driver’s licences.
Customers share only an age-confirmation readout or QR code rather than full personal details like home addresses or names.
The system is optional for both consumers and businesses whilst physical IDs remain fully valid, and venue participation is not mandatory. Digital identity services must be certified under the UK Digital Verification Services (DVS) Trust Framework and registered on GOV.UK (e.g., Yoti ID, Post Office EasyID).
The change is enacted via the Licensing Act 2003 (Mandatory Licensing Conditions) (Amendment) Order 2026 following a 2024 consultation where 72% of respondents backed the move.
Digital Government Minister Stephanie Peacock praised the change as a “groundbreaking” shift that enhances privacy and convenience on nights out and industry body UKHospitality also welcomed the measure, which offers a secure, streamlined alternative to physical document checks during busy periods.
The legal drinking age remains 18, and existing statutory requirements for preventing underage sales stay fully in place.
