The UK government has announced that digital identification will be accepted for alcohol purchases in supermarkets, pubs, and online from autumn 2026, following a statutory instrument laid before Parliament. The change applies to England and Wales and affects major retailers including Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, and Waitrose.
New Legislation Details
Sarah Jones, Minister of State for Policing and Crime, confirmed in a written statement to the House of Commons that the Licensing Act 2003 (Mandatory Licensing Conditions) Order 2010 will be amended to permit the use of certified Digital Verification Services (DVS). Currently, age verification requires physical documents with a photograph, date of birth, and security features. The new rules allow digital ID displayed via a DVS that meets the UK DVS trust framework and appears on the statutory register on GOV.UK.
Ms Jones said: "Today I am pleased to inform the House that those members of the public who are fortunate enough to look younger than their age, but are always having to carry their passport or driving licence to prove they are 18 or over to buy a pint in a pub, will soon no longer have this dilemma. In future, digital ID will be a quick and secure way to prove age without revealing any additional personal details to bar staff."
How Digital ID Will Work
Consumers will be able to use apps such as Yoti and Post Office EasyID, which are already approved and accredited DVS. These allow users to select from various identity evidence, including physical documents, information held by public bodies, and government-issued digital credentials like the forthcoming digital driving licence. For alcohol purchases, there is no requirement to use a specific identity source; physical ID remains accepted.
The government intends the statutory instrument to take effect in autumn 2026, subject to parliamentary procedure. An Economic Note will be published alongside the instrument on legislation.gov.uk.
Industry Reaction
Robin Tombs, Chief Executive of Yoti, said: "The acceptance of digital IDs for alcohol sales is a major milestone for the UK. This will transform how people prove their age at licensed premises including supermarkets, convenience stores, bars, pubs and nightclubs. We've been working towards this for years. When we started Yoti in 2014, young adults told us they wanted to use our app at the supermarket and on nights out. We're excited this will soon become a reality."
The technology "will empower businesses to confidently accept digital IDs, ensuring compliance while improving the customer experience," he added.
Impact on Consumers and Retailers
The change aligns legislation with modern technology and consumer habits. Retailers and licensed premises must ensure that the DVS used is certified and registered. The government maintains that core licensing objectives, including protecting children from harm, will be upheld, as digital checks are as robust as physical ones. Those who prefer physical ID can continue to use it.
