A new programme from UK digital ID startup Yoti will allow people aged 13 and over to use a smartphone app as ID when visiting cinemas.

Under the new scheme, cinemagoers visiting theatres from the UK Cinema Association will be able to show a digital ID, replacing traditional paper forms, such as driving licences or passports.

The UK Cinema Association covers 90% of all UK movie theatres, including chains Cineworld, Odeon, Showcase Cinemas and Vue.

The digital ID is created by downloading the Yoti app on to either iOS or Android phones, and then scanning a physical photo ID. The digital ID, which only reveals the user’s age, can then be shown at the cinema or scanned by web apps.

By targeting cinemagoers down to the age of 13, the scheme is aimed at helping younger viewers, who are less likely to carry physical ID.

Phil Clapp, CEO at the UK Cinema Association, said: “Of the 165 million to 170 million admissions per year UK cinemas were seeing pre-pandemic, around 30% fall within the 15-24 year old bracket (and around 20% within the 9-14 year old age group). Since cinemas re-opened last May those proportions are likely to be even higher.

“For many wanting to get into a ‘15’ or even ‘18’ certificate film, proving their age – without a passport or driving licence to hand – can be incredibly difficult and an understandable source of frustration should they be turned away from the cinema. This new partnership offers a straightforward and modern way to reduce the likelihood of that happening.”

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Introducing digital identities has been a goal of the UK Government for several years. It aims to make it easier for people to verify their identity as part of a move towards digital citizenship, as well as preventing fraud.

Its plans took a major step forward earlier when it unveiled new legislation to make digital IDs legal. This will see a new office introduced, with power to certify IDs ensuring the issuing organisations meet data security and privacy standards.

Currently undergoing public consultation, the Government is in the process of establishing the accreditation and certification process.

Yoti was previously involved in a trial programme that allowed Scottish residents to sign up for a digital ID.

However, there have been calls to ensure that flexibility is imbedded at the heart of any digital ID plans – that individuals have a range of options about how much information they want to share, or can opt out of digital services in favour of physical ones.

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