Introducing new ways to verify younger users under the Online Safety Act
Jaye Hackett
Vouchsafe now supports two of the UK’s most widely used proof-of-age cards: Young Scot and CitizenCard.
Both cards are accredited by the Proof of Age Standards Scheme, and widely accepted for age-restricted services like cinema and alcohol purchases, as well as domestic flights and voting.
They’re particularly useful for services that work with young people, who are less likely to have a passport or driving licence.
This feature is live and ready to use for current customers. You can customise which photo IDs you accept in your verification flows from the dashboard.
Helping you meet Online Safety Act rules
The Online Safety Act says platforms must check the age of users if there’s a risk that children could access harmful content or services. This includes social apps, dating platforms, online games, and more.
AI-based age estimation can sort out users who are far older or younger than the age threshold, but that’s not always enough.
The people you most need to verify are often just under or just over 18. Facial recognition can’t reliably tell the difference between a 17-year-old and a 19-year-old.
Young Scot and CitizenCard follow trusted UK standards for proving age. By accepting them, you can meet your legal duties, reduce risk, and make life easier for younger users.
What is CitizenCard?
CitizenCard is a Home Office-recognised photo ID that’s been available since 1999. It’s open to anyone living in the UK, including under-13s, and is widely accepted as proof of age and identity.
It’s commonly used for things like buying age-restricted goods, getting into licensed venues, and boarding domestic flights.
Because it’s PASS-accredited and backed by the police, trading standards, and the Home Office, it’s trusted by both businesses and regulators. That makes it a reliable option for platforms looking to serve users who may not have a passport or driving licence.
What is the Young Scot card?
Young Scot is a free National Entitlement Card issued to young people in Scotland, typically from age 11 to 26. It serves as proof of age and offers access to a range of other services.
The card has been issued to more than 700,000 young people and is used across Scotland for free or discounted bus travel, and discounts at over 300 shops and services. In some areas, it also functions as a school lunch card, library card, or access pass for youth services.
It is recognised as valid photo ID under the PASS scheme, making it a straightforward and trusted option for age verification.
Try it now
Support for Young Scot and CitizenCard is now live in Vouchsafe. If you’re already using our platform, there’s nothing to switch on; these cards will be accepted automatically.
For services covered by the Online Safety Act, or anyone who needs to check the age of younger users, this makes compliance simpler and onboarding smoother.
Book a demo or get in touch to see it in action.
