Digital ID update for alcohol age checks in England & Wales

The Home Office has today introduced new regulations that once approved will allow customers in England and Wales to prove their age using certified digital ID services when purchasing alcohol.

Under the proposed changes, individuals will be able to use a registered digital verification service (DVS) instead of relying solely on physical identification such as passports or driving licences.  This marks a significant step towards modernising age verification across retail and hospitality settings, including pubs, bars, restaurants, and shops. 

Why this change matters

Current rules under the Licensing Act 2003 require physical ID to include security features like holograms, which prevents digital solutions from being accepted.  The new legislation removes this restriction, enabling digital age checks to be used safely alongside traditional forms of identification.

Key requirements for businesses

Licensed premises will be able to adopt digital verification, provided they have an agreement in place with a registered DVS provider.  These providers must:

• Meet a “medium level of confidence” under the UK DVS trust framework
• Confirm both the customer’s age eligibility and that the ID relates to the person presenting it
• Use secure, technology based verification rather than simple visual checks

What this means in practice

The change introduces greater flexibility, not obligation as both systems of ID checks will contine:

• Businesses can choose whether or not to accept digital ID
• Customers can choose between digital and physical proof of age

For operators, digital verification could speed up service at the bar. For customers, it offers a more convenient and secure way to prove age rather than relying on physical ID.

What’s next

The legislation must complete its passage through Parliament before coming into force.  We are told the Home Office will be sharing an updated timetable soon.  Once in force, updated statutory guidance will follow to support operators implementing the new system along with further engagement with stakeholders on understanding how their products can be used.

Link to Office for Digital Identities & Attributes Blog and draft regulations: here