Retailer Guidance

Here you will find tips to ensure your staff can recognise valid ID and proof of age cards, how to say 'no' to teenagers who can no longer buy tobacco and what the penalties are for non-compliance.  

Checking proof of age

If you're a retailer selling tobacco, you're responsible for ensuring your staff comply with the change in the law. It's good practice to ask for evidence of the person's age. It's important to ensure that whatever evidence of proof of age is used, that it's genuine and reliable, e.g look for the PASS hologram logo when checking a proof of age card.

The best advice is always to ask for proof of age unless you're convinced the person looks at least 21. We'll be reminding people, particularly teenagers, of the need to carry proof of age from an accredited PASS scheme.

Saying 'no' to teenagers

We understand this change will have an impact on your business and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to comply with the change in the law.

There are a number of things you can do to ensure you and your staff know what to do. For advice on refusing a sale, download the Training Guide for Staff (PDF, 127Kb)

Complying with the law

Selling tobacco products to someone under the legal age could result in a fine of up to £2,500. Failing to display the statutory notice could result in a fine of up to £1,000. This applies both to over the counter and vending machine sales.

Non-compliance with the law can be proved through test-purchase, using a volunteer teenager, carried out under the supervision of a Trading Standards Officer. Contact your nearest Trading Standards Office to find out more.