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Enabling the use of digital proof of age for the sale and supply of alcohol in England and Wales

30 June 2026

Proposing MP
Sarah Jones Lab
Croydon Central
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Home Office
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

Sarah Jones is informing the House about plans to update the Licensing Act 2003 to allow the use of digital proof of age for alcohol sales in England and Wales.

Action Requested

The Government intends to lay a statutory instrument that will permit the use of certified and registered Digital Verification Services (DVS) for proving age when buying alcohol, with the change coming into effect in Autumn 2026. The Economic Note will be published on legislation.gov.uk alongside the instrument.

Key Facts

  • The update aligns with the Licensing Act 2003 (Mandatory Licensing Conditions) Order 2010.
  • Digital Verification Services must be certified against the UK DVS trust framework and appear on the statutory DVS register on GOV.UK.
  • Individuals can choose from a range of identity evidence when setting up digital proof of age, including physical documents and digital credentials issued by the government.
  • The change will come into effect in Autumn 2026.
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