Entering the era of Digital ID’s in hospitality

On Saturday 21 December 2024 Peter Kyle MP took to our screens to highlight the inefficiencies surrounding traditional forms of ID. The skit framed the Government’s response to the consultation on whether digital ID and age assurance technology could be used to determine someone’s age when purchasing alcohol.

The consultation also considered the efficiency of the Licensing Act 2003 to deal with remote alcohol sales. Out of the three areas considered, only the proposals relating to digital ID have gained traction. The Government do not intend to allow the use of age estimating technology in the verification of age for alcohol sales at this time. Mixed views were also received on the proposed changes to remote sales so the Government acknowledge that further consideration must be had. More information on the content of the consultation can be read here.

The Government have suggested that customers will be set to use digital ID by Christmas 2025, so what does this mean for the industry and how do we need to prepare?

Who will be effected?

The proposal to allow digital ID will apply to alcohol sales in, for example, shops, pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants.

How will Digital ID be verified?

The UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework will set out the rules and standards which outline what good digital ID looks like. Digital verification service providers must become independently certified against the Trust Framework. Once certified, users and businesses will be able to trust that the provider is reliable.

A register of digital verification service providers will list organisations who have been certified against the Trust Framework. Licensees and shop owners choosing to accept digital ID in their premises will be able to access this register to check certification status of providers before entering into any agreements.  There are around 50 companies certified at present.

When digital ID is presented programmatic checks will need to be conducted. These checks will be conducted by scanning a QR code or NFC (near field communication) technology, the same technology used in contactless bank cards. It is hoped that these checks will be seamless and help slash bar waiting times.

Digital ID will also allow customers to only show information to prove their age, differing from traditional forms of ID such as drivers licences which also show your home address.

How to prepare 

The Government have introduced the Data (Use and Access) Bill  to give a statutory foundation to the Trust Framework.  The Bill is currently working its way through Parliament and once passed will allow the Secretary of State to amend the Licensing Act 2003 to make provision for digital ID, which is not currently permitted. As the Bill passes through Parliament the Bill may be subject to amendment so we won’t have the final picture until the Bill is enacted, hopefully, later this year.

For those looking into potential service providers for their venues, ensure you have reviewed the register to ensure your chosen provider is certified. The current register can be found here.

As with current forms of approved ID, bar staff will need to check that the person shown on the digital ID  matches the customer physically in front of you.

Finally, keep up to date with guidance as it is published throughout the year. As the Bill progresses through Parliament we will receive more clarity on how the Bill is likely to look when enacted, and what will be expected of the industry. We will publish an e-News to our subscribers of any notable developments, and when the Bill is to come into force.

To stay up to date subscribe to our e-News here.