Pubs and shops can now accept digital ID for alcohol purchases in England and Wales

Pubs and shops can now accept digital ID as proof of age when selling alcohol.

Changes to the Licensing Act come into force today in England and Wales, but it is likely to take a while before the scheme is widely accepted.

The ID will be available through third-party apps such as Yoti - already used as proof of age in other scenarios such as buying cinema tickets.

Every time alcohol is purchased, the ID holder will have to complete an authentication process - for example, scanning their face or entering a pin code.

In some cases, a photo will be sent to the bartender or person behind the till so they can confirm the buyer's identity.

The app will then generate a QR code - valid for around 30 seconds - that allows the sale to go through.

Businesses will still be able to accept physical IDs such as a driving licence.

The government hopes the scheme can eventually be expanded to vapes and tobacco.

Stephanie Peacock MP, minister in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, said businesses and individuals would be able to decide whether or not to use or accept digital IDs.

However, she said the scheme offered significant advantages like not having to "hand over sensitive personal information such as your name or address".

Allen Simpson, head of industry group UKHospitality, welcomed the change and said it would mean "greater flexibility and convenience for customers and businesses".

He added: "We look forward to working with the government to ensure the roll-out of the scheme, with multiple supplier options available, is cost-efficient and not burdensome for the hospitality sector."

Plans for a wider digital ID scheme - planned under Sir Keir Starmer's government - have been scrapped by Andy Burnham.

(c) Sky News 2026: Pubs and shops can now accept digital ID for alcohol purchases in England and Wales