Digital ID App Can Now Prove Age for Alcohol Purchases in England and Wales

People buying alcohol in England and Wales will be able to prove their age using a digital ID app on their mobile phone under new rules introduced on Tuesday.

Pubs and shops can use government-approved digital ID apps alongside physical identification. The government says the technology will make checking the age of customers and staff faster and more secure.

Which digital ID apps can be used?

Customers can choose an app from a range of approved suppliers, including the Post Office, Yoti and Luciditi. Businesses will be able to accept digital identification in addition to their existing physical ID checks.

The change means venues will no longer have to require customers to use physical identification, although the government expects most establishments to continue offering that option.

How digital age verification works

The scheme is technology agnostic, meaning the government has not specified exactly how every approved app must operate.

Depending on the service, customers may verify their age by tapping their phone on a reader or displaying a scannable QR code. Supporters of the voluntary digital ID system say it could allow people to share less personal information with pubs, shops and other venues than they would by handing over official documents.

Digital ID apps must also prevent people from borrowing devices belonging to older friends or relatives. They must ensure that the app is being used by the person who registered for it.

Yoti digital ID example

Yoti’s digital ID app allows users to log in only when a scan of their face matches the face of the person who originally signed up for the app.

The app then creates a QR code. Businesses can scan the code using the free Checker app to find out the customer’s age.

The QR code has a time limit, making it more difficult to copy or share.

Government and hospitality industry response

Digital Government Minister Stephanie Peacock said the digital ID option would “remove the need to carry a physical ID or hand over sensitive personal information”, allowing people to “be safer on a night out”.

Allen Simpson, chief executive of industry body UK Hospitality, described the new rules as a “positive step”.

He said the hospitality industry would work with the government to ensure the rollout did not become a “burden” for businesses. This includes making sure suppliers offer multiple options at a cost that is effective for the industry.