Stories

Mon, 14 Sep 2026

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 Pubs in England and Wales to allow digital ID apps to prove age

New rules introduced on Tuesday mean establishments will be able to accept digital ID apps alongside physical documents.

* Pubs and shops in England and Wales can use the tech alongside physical forms of ID
* Digital ID apps must be on a government-approved list, with suppliers such as the Post Office, Yoti or Luciditi currently available
* Apps will need to ensure ID belongs to person using it and prevent borrowing from older friends/relatives
* Digital ID scheme will be technology-agnostic, allowing businesses to use multiple apps
* Government wants digital ID apps to work together, offline and without mobile data/Wi-Fi connection
* Future extension of the digital proof of age scheme could cover tobacco and vapes
* Campaigners raise concerns that digital ID requirements could exclude some groups.