Business information

Proof of Age Standards (PASS) scheme

Trading Standards Departments and the Government support the national Proof of Age Standards (PASS) scheme. You can be confident that a card issued under the scheme and bearing the PASS hologram is an acceptable proof of age.

Card issuers may supply material for you to display in your shop, telling young people where they can obtain a card. This way, if you have cause to refuse a sale, you can give youngsters some positive information.

Retailers should instantly know that any ID card carrying the PASS hologram is genuine. There are over 1.5 million pass cards in circulation.

Photo driving licences and passports are also acceptable as proof of age.

Other useful steps

Make sure you have identified any age-restricted products that your business may sell, and are clear about the appropriate age limits.

Ensure new and existing staff are properly trained, and that all staff are regularly reminded about the law. Keep records of any training.

Keep a record when staff refuse sales to under age persons, e.g. in a diary or refusals book, and monitor its usage to ensure all sales staff are being vigilant. Refusals registers can also be obtained from the No ID No Sale hotline on 0870 240 1221.

Display notices / posters around the tills / product displays to publicise your challenge 21 policy and types of identification which are acceptable. This may deter potential purchasers and act as a reminder to staff.

If you possess an EPOS system, it may be possible to set up your till system to remind sales staff to check customers when an age-restricted product is scanned. Alternatively, stickers can be used over certain product bar codes.

Consider moving displays of age-restricted products nearer the counter, or even behind it, to minimise the risk of theft and to deter youngsters.

There are a number of card issuers in the scheme - visit www.pass-scheme.org.uk for more information.

If you require any further advice please contact Hertfordshire Trading Standards on 01727 813849.