By Sarah Clark
The UK government is to bring in a new law that will allow young adults to use a digital ID stored on their mobile phone to prove their age when buying alcohol in a pub, bar or store.
“By next Christmas, you won’t need to carry a wallet or risk losing important documents like your passport or driving licence when heading out to celebrate,” Technology Secretary Peter Kyle says.
“With a certified digital identity on your phone, you can raise a glass in your local pub without hassle – a merry step forward in making age verification safer, easier, and more convenient for everyone.”
The new law will make it possible for landlords and retailers “to scan digital identities to verify a customer’s age without customers unnecessarily disclosing personal information like their name or address, as is often the case with driving licences,” the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology explains.
“When a digital identity is presented in person, a quick programmatic check — like scanning a QR code or using NFC, the technology behind contactless bank cards which people use every day — will ensure everything is seamless and hassle free.
“Landlords will be able to choose from a host of digital verification service providers to help them check ages securely and quickly, with over 50 such companies already independently certified against the UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework.”
“Once passed, the Bill will pave the way for certified digital identities to be added to the list of accepted age verification methods, alongside traditional forms like passports and driving licences.
“By the time Britain is enjoying a festive tipple next year, landlords and retailers will have access to a public register on GOV.UK listing certified digital identity services. These digital identity services will offer a secure and convenient way to verify age for alcohol purchases, ensuring that celebrations can be merry, bright, and free from outdated processes.”
