This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
News
Age verification goes digital for pubs in 2025
The UK government has announced that this year, people will be able to use digital ID verification in pubs, clubs and shops.
For young people, there is nothing more gutting than getting to the front of the queue for your local and realising you’ve forgotten your ID. But not to worry, gone are the days of trying to convince the bouncer that you’re, clearly, over the age of 18.
In a landmark move, the UK government announced on 21 December that from 2025, people will be able to use digital IDs on their smartphones to prove their age when purchasing alcohol in pubs, clubs, and shops. The change promises to make age verification faster, safer, and more convenient for consumers and businesses while boosting economic growth in the high street and hospitality sectors.
This new option, part of the government’s broader ‘Plan for Change’ programme, is designed to modernise age verification processes, reducing the need for physical ID documents like driving licences and passports. Digital IDs will be independently certified to meet stringent government standards, ensuring they are secure and reliable.
Technology secretary Peter Kyle hailed the initiative, saying: “With a certified digital identity on your phone, you can raise a glass in your local pub without hassle – a merry step forward in making age verification safer, easier, and more convenient for everyone.”
Kyle added that the move would also provide an economic boost, stating: “This change benefits both consumers and businesses, spurring the economic growth we need to put more money in the pockets of working people as part of our Plan for Change.”
Benefits for businesses and consumers
Digital IDs are expected to improve efficiency for businesses, particularly during busy periods. Landlords will be able to quickly and securely verify customers’ ages via QR codes or Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, reducing waiting times at bars and easing bottlenecks at automated tills.
James Hawkins, member of the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) welcomed the changes, commenting: “The change brings the Licensing Act in line with current technology and will make a visit to the pub easier for both customers and staff. It could also reduce the risk of customers losing key ID documents when enjoying a night out.”
Economic and safety boosts
The digital identity sector generated £2 billion in revenue last year and employed over 10,000 people, half of whom were based outside London. This productivity powerhouse contributes 42% more to the economy per worker than the national average. The government anticipates further growth, supported by measures in the upcoming Data (Use and Access) Bill.
The initiative aims to enhance personal safety by eliminating the need to present physical IDs that disclose sensitive information, such as home addresses.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UK Hospitality, praised the move: “There are fewer things more frustrating than realising you’ve forgotten your ID when heading to a pub, bar, or restaurant. These new measures will make that a thing of the past while minimising additional costs for businesses.”
Related news
AI-driven trends to transform social drinking in 2025, says Diageo