Identification Awareness

There are three acceptable proof of age/identity and they are:

·  A Valid Passport

·  A Photo Driving Licence

·  A Proof of Age Standard Scheme (PASS) card.

The most common fake identification being utilised is the Driving Licence, both the Full and the Provisional. I know that fake identification quality is either really good, or really poor, sometimes laughable. Extra checks and vigilance is the key to prevent fake identification being used in your premise(s).

We have also seen a rise in cases whereby underage persons have used their older sibling’s driving licence to gain entry in to licensed premises. Please be mindful of this when checking ID.

If you haven't done so already, think about utilising the below:

·  Use an ultraviolet light to look for the hologram marks - test your own licence under it and get to know what to look for

·  Ask for a bank card to verify the name, so two forms of identity

·  Asking questions such as "what is your zodiac sign?" or "what is your postcode/date of birth/age?"

Remember - If you are not satisfied that the ID is genuine then you should always refuse the sale or entry and ask the person to leave the premises. You should then make a note in your refusals/incident book.

Only certain people have the responsibility for seizing identification (police officers for example), however, any member of staff presented with fake ID may ask for it to be handed over. Further to this, you may advise that failure to handover the fake ID may result in the police being called to deal with the situation. Again, if you are given a fake ID to make a note in your refusals/incident book and contact the police for retrieval.

For more information on fake identification, please view the following guidance from the Home Office.  Knowledge is key.

False ID guidance (publishing.service.gov.uk)