Government confirms change to Tesco, Aldi, Lidl, Asda, Sainsbury's checkouts
The Government has confirmed changes to age verification procedures for alcohol purchases in UK supermarkets and pubs from autumn this year. Sarah Jones, Minister of State for Policing and Crime, announced the new regulations to the House of Commons yesterday.
The change will allow customers to use digital ID instead of physical documents when buying alcohol. Currently, anyone whose age is questioned must produce physical documents bearing a photograph, date of birth, and security features to verify they are of legal age to purchase alcohol.
The new rules will apply to online purchases, pubs, and supermarkets including Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, and Waitrose, affecting both England and Wales.
Ms Jones said: "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."
The amendment involves updating the Licensing Act 2003 Mandatory Licensing Conditions Order 2010. Digital Verification Services (DVS) will be certified and registered to verify age, meeting strict standards for security, privacy, and reliability.
Ms Jones explained: "This change will permit the use of certified and registered Digital Verification Services for the sale and supply of alcohol in England and Wales where certain conditions are met. Those who prefer to prove their age using physical documents can still do so."
The Government recognises the need to align legislation with today's consumer habits and modern technology. Certified digital verification services will allow individuals to select from a range of identity evidence including physical documents, information held by public authorities, and digital credentials issued by the government like the upcoming digital driving licence. Physical forms of identification will continue to be accepted.