New rules allowing drinkers to use mobile phone apps to buy alcohol came into force in England and Wales on Tuesday, September 15. Pubs, bars, and shops were given the green light to accept digital ID apps alongside traditional physical passports and driving licences.
How the new system works
Under the scheme, pub-goers can download approved digital ID software from suppliers such as the Post Office, Yoti, or Luciditi. Instead of showing a physical card, drinkers tap their phone or display a dynamic QR code. To prevent under-age drinkers from using older friends' devices, the technology relies on biometric checks. Yoti's app, for example, requires users to undergo facial scans each time they log in to prove their identity matches the account.
Crucially, the change means businesses are no longer legally required to accept physical documents such as driving licences. The Government's plan relies on a "technology-agnostic" model, leaving private tech firms to handle identity checks themselves.
Official support and industry reaction
Digital Government Minister Stephanie Peacock backed the move, claiming it means drinkers "do not need to carry a physical ID, nor hand over sensitive personal information" like home addresses. Allen Simpson, chief executive of trade body UKHospitality, welcomed the update as a "positive step," though he admitted the industry must ensure the rollout does not become "burdensome" or costly for struggling venues.
Privacy and exclusion concerns
Despite official reassurances, privacy campaigners are raising the alarm over digital exclusion and data security. With ministers already eyeing up the technology for tobacco and vape sales next, concerns are growing over how far the technology will spread.
Jasleen Chaggar, of campaign group Big Brother Watch, warned the move threatens to create a two-tier society that punishes those who cannot or will not rely on smartphone apps. She said: "Having multiple ways to prove your identity can be helpful, but the Government must ensure digital ID does not become effectively mandatory as it would shut out millions of people.
"Many people have legitimate reasons for relying on physical ID, whether out of choice, privacy and security concerns, or because they lack the digital skills or means to use digital ID. The Government should expressly prohibit businesses from requiring digital IDs for age checks without offering reasonable alternatives."
The controversial rollout comes after a wider state-backed digital ID programme, promoted by former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, triggered intense public backlash and was ultimately abandoned by Andy Burnham.
