Frequently Asked Questions
What is PASS?
PASS is a proof-of-age standards scheme that that validates genuine proof-of-age cards.
What does a PASS accredited card look like?
A PASS accredited proof-of-age card will have the following:
- Date of birth
- Full name
- A passport standard photograph
- An image of the holder's signature
- A PASS hologram
How does it work?
A card provider makes an application to gain accreditation. This involves satisfying a number of criteria, both for the protection of data and
design requirements. This application is then verified by Trading Standards who undertake an audit and verify the security of the scheme.
Once accreditation has been gained the scheme is audited annually.
The permission to include the unique PASS hologram on a card is not granted unless the above procedure has been followed and the application is successful.
Why has it been introduced?
Fraudulent forms of identity coupled with the difficulty in determining the age of young people has led to the introduction of the standards scheme. The inclusion of the PASS hologram on accredited cards, together with the verification made by card issuers regarding the personal details of an applicant, gives the retailer the assurance that the holder is of relevant age to buy age related goods.
Why are there so many fake cards available?
Obtaining fraudulent or fake cards is relatively easy. Thousands of internet sites offer this “service” as they are able to exploit a loophole in the law which permits the ability to provide “novelty” identity cards. In addition, a number of sites permit the downloading of formats for cards which can be easily copied and sold as identity cards.
Some of the fake proof-of-age card internet sites will put a hologram on fake cards for an extra fee – what happens if they use the PASS logo?
The PASS hologram is very distinctive and virtually impossible to forge. The logo is a registered Trademark and anyone trying to pass a hologram or logo off as PASS will be pursued and prosecuted, as they will be committing a criminal offence.
What problems do retailers face with proof-of-age cards?
Retailers have the problem of trying to identify what is a genuine proof-of-age card versus a fraudulent one. With a PASS accredited card they will instantly know it is genuine when they see the unique PASS hologram. Any young person who is lucky enough to look under 21 is likely to be asked for identification. Producing the PASS card will give the retailer or member of staff the assurance that it is a trustworthy and reliable form of identification.
Are all retailers aware of PASS?
Details of the scheme are communicated to retailers by a number of methods including via their trade associations, in trade media, via Trading Standards, etc. To date there are over 1.5 Million cards in circulation helping the awareness of the scheme to grow rapidly.
Does PASS mean big changes for retailers?
There are no big changes for retailers. They will still be presented with various proof-of-age cards, but those that are genuine will have been accredited by PASS and will carry the logo.
What are the benefits to young people?
The benefits are:-
- You can carry around a form of proof-of-age that is not a valuable document such as a passport or driving licence.
- Carrying a PASS accredited card can prevent you from being embarrassed or refused for a product that you are legally entitled to.
If my PASS card is refused by a retailer what should I do?
If your PASS card has been refused you should contact the company that issued your card with the following information:-
- The name and address of the outlet or venue where you were refused
- The day
- The date
- The time
This information will help your card issuer contact the venue and find out why the card was refused. This card refusal form will ensure you complete the necessary information that will help the card issuer follow up your enquiry.
Will the introduction of a Government ID card effect the PASS card scheme?
No. The PASS card is a safe, secure form of identity that can be used now and into the future.
How do people get hold of the cards?
By contacting a PASS accredited card scheme. Each scheme operates a registration and verification process, these may differ across the various card providers. Accredited schemes are operated both regionally and nationally. Only schemes that have passed the rigorous accreditation process are permitted to use the distinctive PASS hologram.
Should I apply for a national or regional card?
The decision to opt for a regional or national card is a personal choice. The important factor is to ensure the card scheme chosen is PASS accredited and that the card carries the unique PASS hologram.
What about people with old proof-of-age cards?
Each accredited card issuer will work slightly differently, but it is likely that holders of genuine proof-of-age cards obtained in the last 3
years, will have been re-issued a new card with the PASS logo on it. Those who bought cards before the introduction of PASS can still exchange for a new
style card by contacting the company that provided their card.
