Challenge 25 policy

Why a Challenge 25 Policy is Essential for Pubs and Hospitality

Every licensed venue has a legal duty to prevent the sale of alcohol to underage customers. The Challenge 25 Policy provides pubs, bars, and hospitality venues with a clear framework to support responsible alcohol service and protect their premises licence.

This policy helps staff confidently apply age verification procedures by encouraging ID checks for anyone who looks under 25. It reduces the risk of illegal sales, strengthens due diligence, and demonstrates compliance during licensing inspections.

Legal Requirements and Licensing Responsibilities

Under the Licensing Act 2003, it is a criminal offence to sell alcohol to anyone under 18. Licensing authorities strongly recommend that all alcohol retailers adopt an age verification policy such as Challenge 25 to ensure compliance.

Official government guidance explains how premises can meet their legal obligations and protect their licences:
Gov.uk – Alcohol licensing

By implementing and following this Challenge 25 Policy, you ensure your venue operates responsibly and meets the expectations of local licensing officers and the police.

What the Challenge 25 Policy Includes

This editable digital policy is designed specifically for pubs and hospitality businesses. It includes:

• A clear statement of your venue’s Challenge 25 procedure

• Guidelines for staff on verifying ID and handling refusals

• Advice on acceptable forms of identification

• Record-keeping and refusal log guidance

• A declaration section for staff to confirm understanding

• Editable fields to add your venue name, logo, and contact details

This format makes it easy for managers to train staff, ensure consistency, and keep documentation ready for inspection.

Benefits for Pubs and Hospitality Venues

• Helps prevent underage alcohol sales and licence breaches

• Demonstrates compliance with the Licensing Act 2003

• Supports staff confidence and responsible alcohol service

• Builds trust with local authorities and customers

• Free to download, edit, and personalise for your venue

Format and Use

This Challenge 25 Policy is available as a free editable digital download (Word or PDF format). You can customise it to match your business operations, print copies for your bar area, and include it in your staff training packs.

By adopting this policy, your venue promotes safe, responsible alcohol service — protecting your team, your customers, and your licence.

To see the full range of our free range of document templates available from That HR Girl, please click here: Free essential downloadable documents for pubs & hospitality