From autumn 2025, customers in England and Wales will be able to use digital identification on certified smartphone apps to prove their age when purchasing alcohol, under new government plans. The Home Office has laid a statutory instrument to amend licensing laws, enabling pubs, supermarkets, and other licensed premises to accept digital IDs as a valid form of age verification.
Background and Consumer Habits
The move comes in response to changing consumer preferences, with many pub-goers now preferring to use their phones rather than carrying physical documents like passports or driving licences. The new law will also allow customers to prove their age without disclosing additional personal information, such as their address. To use this option, individuals must download a certified government-backed app, such as Yoti or Post Office EasyID, both of which are free to use.
According to government figures, over eight million people in the UK have already downloaded one of these digital ID apps. The change is subject to parliamentary procedure but is expected to take effect from autumn 2025.
Official Statement
Home Office minister Sarah Jones announced the plan in Parliament, saying: “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, and will mean that passports can be left safely at home by those who choose this option.”
She added: “With the increasing adoption of secure digital technologies, the government recognises the need to align legislation with today’s consumer habits and modern technology.”
Implementation and Impact
Under the new rules, licensed establishments will be able to verify a customer’s age by scanning a QR code or using near-field communication (NFC) technology on their phone. The digital ID apps are designed to only share the necessary information—whether the person is over 18 or over 21, depending on the requirement—without revealing their exact date of birth or address.
The government emphasised that those who prefer to use physical documents will still be able to do so. The statutory instrument amends the Licensing Act 2003 and is expected to be debated in Parliament shortly. If approved, the change will apply to England and Wales, with Scotland and Northern Ireland expected to consider similar measures.
