Free photo ID for more young people: the 16-17 CitizenCard online offer
In 2025, new requirements under the Online Safety Act meant certain online services had to introduce highly effective age checks to determine whether users were children and help protect them from harmful content. In response to the growing need for young teens to prove their age, CitizenCard introduced its 13-15 age band and made standard processing free for people applying online for their first CitizenCard.
Now, as the UK Government plans to introduce further restrictions for under-16s on social media, CitizenCard is extending its free online standard application offer to the 16-17 age band. The existing 13-15 offer continues.
What the free offer covers
From 1 October 2026, UK residents who have never had a CitizenCard can apply online for a 13-15 or 16-17 card with an £18 discount.
- Standard processing: FREE (reduced from £18).
- Urgent processing: £17 (reduced from £35).
This online offer does not cover replacement cards, paper applications or 18+ cards.
Age checks are becoming more common online
Age assurance is playing a growing role in the way online services protect children and provide age-appropriate experiences.
The UK Government has now announced plans to prevent certain social media services from being offered to under-16s. Stronger age checks would distinguish users under 16 from those aged 16 and over. The Government expects the changes to take effect in spring 2027, with further details to follow. Read the Government's guidance on the planned changes.
Why accessible proof of age matters
As more services introduce age checks, access to suitable proof should be easy. Cost should not be something young people or their families have to worry about.
Some forms of photo ID are not available to younger people, while others can be expensive. CitizenCard aims to prevent cost from becoming an additional barrier by making standard processing free for first-time applicants who apply online for a 13-15 or 16-17 card.
How to apply for your first card
CitizenCard will verify your identity as part of your application. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to use one of the following verification routes:
- Electronic ID validation: a digital check of an original photo ID document.
- eVisa check: verification using UK Home Office online records.
- Referee checking documents: a professional referee validates an original identity document.
- Referee checking records: a professional referee confirms your details against official records.
You do not need a passport to apply. A suitable referee can verify your identity using other documents or official records.
CitizenCard Verify API
To support online services as they prepare for new age assurance requirements, CitizenCard offers a free API that can validate any card issued by CitizenCard.
CitizenCards can also be verified using the free PASS Card Verify app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
For further information, email
