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Digital ID for Alcohol: Age Checks Go Mobile
15 Sep
Summary
- Digital ID apps can now be used to prove age for alcohol purchases.
- Businesses in England and Wales can accept digital IDs alongside physical ones.
- This change aims to make age verification quicker and more secure for everyone.
New regulations introduced on Tuesday allow alcohol buyers to use digital ID apps on their smartphones to verify their age. Pubs and shops across England and Wales can now accept these digital options, in addition to traditional physical identification. The government anticipates this will expedite age checks, enhancing security for patrons and staff.
Customers can select from a variety of government-approved digital ID suppliers, such as the Post Office, Yoti, or Luciditi. This voluntary scheme enables drinkers to share fewer personal details by, for instance, scanning a QR code instead of handing over official documents. Apps are required to prevent misuse and ensure the digital ID belongs to the user, with features like facial recognition to match the user to the app.
Digital government minister Stephanie Peacock highlighted that digital IDs mean "you do not need to carry a physical ID, nor hand over sensitive personal information," contributing to enhanced safety. The hospitality industry views this as a positive development, with a commitment to ensure the rollout is not burdensome and remains cost-efficient with multiple supplier options.
