Australia's new age verification laws require players to provide a real driver's licence or other proof of age to play Grand Theft Auto 6, and experts warn the United Kingdom may impose identical requirements. The measure, part of Australia's broader social media restrictions enacted last year, applies to online video games and could force Rockstar Games to implement identity checks for all players.
Australian Age Verification Law Targets GTA 6
Australia passed legislation in 2025 requiring users to verify they are at least 16 years old before accessing social media platforms such as X, Snapchat, and TikTok. The law also covers online video games, including Roblox. According to news.com.au, GTA 6 will be subject to these checks for both its single-player campaign and the anticipated online multiplayer mode, even though Rockstar has not officially announced multiplayer for the sequel.
Rockstar has no choice but to comply: refusal to implement age verification could result in fines of up to AU$49.5 million (approximately £25.6 million) per breach. The company already uses age verification for GTA Online in Australia, so extending it to GTA 6 is expected.
UK Could Impose Similar Requirements
The UK introduced its own social media ban earlier in 2026, explicitly modelled on Australia's approach. While video games are currently treated separately from social media, lawmakers have discussed banning voice chat features for users under 16. Evidence has emerged that Rockstar is preparing to add age verification to GTA Online in the UK, though the company has not confirmed this publicly.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously commented on Rockstar's labour practices, highlighting the game's cultural prominence. However, critics question the effectiveness of such bans: Australia's system reportedly failed within two weeks, as minors easily bypassed verification checks.
GTA 6 Pre-Orders and Rating
Despite the verification hurdles, GTA 6 remains the most anticipated game in history. Pre-orders generated $1 million in the first hour, according to reports, even amid backlash over the lack of a physical release. The game's age rating has not been officially announced, but a PlayStation email inadvertently confirmed an M for Mature rating in the US, which corresponds to an 18 rating in the UK and R18 in Australia.
Rockstar has released no raw gameplay footage or system details, yet demand continues to surge. If the UK enforces age verification, players may need to provide a driver's licence or passport to play, a prospect that seems absurd to adults but may become mandatory.
