Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS)

CitizenCards were the first ID cards in the UK to bear the hologram issued by PASS (Proof of Age Standards Scheme).  That means CitizenCard meets the highest standards both for verifying applications and issuing reliable, forge-proof cards.

The PASS hologram means that each CitizenCard is recognised as valid ID under the law.  For providing proof of age, it’s as legitimate as a photo-driving licence and better than a passport, according to Home Office Minister James Brokenshire MP:

“Young people are rightly concerned about taking their passport with them on a night out, due to the risk of theft or loss, and they require a reliable document...I am keen to reassure retailers that accepting a PASS hologram card which carries the bearer’s image and acceptable date of birth is due diligence, and can be accepted with confidence.”

Chief Constable Jon Stoddart, speaking for the Association of Chief Police Officers, says the card:

“...offers retailers a reliable means of ensuring that they are exercising due diligence at the point of sale. ACPO advises against the practice of carrying valuable ID such as passports for alcohol related purchases; if lost or stolen such documents can be of use to criminals as well as causing inconvenience and expense.”

So for both Her Majesty’s Government and Constabulary the cards are a more effective form of proof of age than passports -  a view shared by Trading Standards, the Security Industry Association (which regulates doorstaff) and the UK’s retail trade groups.  That means staff working in shops, clubs, bars, cinemas and other retailers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland should all trust a CitizenCard when presented as a form of ID or proof of age.

Each CitizenCard is issued only after the applicant’s identity and age have rigorously been checked.  In addition, the physical card issued contains a range of security features to give you and your staff confidence that the CitizenCard is genuine and not a fake.