Digital proof of age for alcohol sales update

Following our previous enews Digital proof of age for alcohol sales moves a step closer – Poppleston Allen, The Licensing Act 2003 (Mandatory Licensing Conditions) (Amendment) Order 2026 has now been approved by both Houses of Parliament.

The Order was approved by the House of Lords and House of Commons on 8 September 2026, completing the Parliamentary approval process. It will come into force on the day after it is formally made, which is the final step in bringing the Order into force.

The Order amends the mandatory age verification condition under the Licensing Act 2003, allowing licensed premises and club premises to accept digital proof of age when selling or supplying alcohol, provided the relevant statutory requirements are met. Digital proof of age will only be permitted where it is provided through a certified Digital Verification Service (DVS) which has been assessed against the UK DVS Trust Framework and is listed on the statutory DVS Register.

The change is voluntary. Premises will not be required to accept digital proof of age if they choose not to do so, and customers will continue to be able to use physical identification such as a passport, driving licence or other accepted ID.

The Government has indicated that the Section 182 licensing guidance will be updated to support implementation. Further practical guidance is also expected.

We will provide a further update once the Order has been made and the commencement date is confirmed.

We will continue to monitor the progress of the legislation and provide further updates.

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For further information, please feel free to contact any of our licensing solicitors who can be found here  on 0115 953 8500.