The Exemption regarding Alcohol Consumption by 16- and 17-Year-Olds: What the Law Allows

You all know that you can NEVER SELL ALCOHOL to someone UNDER 18, right? That’s a given. However under Section 150(4) of the Licensing Act 2003, there is a specific exception that allows 16- and 17-year-olds to consume alcohol in licensed premises under tightly controlled conditions. What IS Permitted? A 16- or 17-year-old may lawfully […]
Understanding ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

alcoholic beverage. It indicates the percentage of pure alcohol (ethanol) in a given volume of liquid. For example, a drink with 12% ABV contains 12ml of pure alcohol per 100ml of liquid. Why ABV Matters… Legal Requirements for ABV Labelling in the UK… 1. Mandatory Display 2. Format and Placement… 3. Tolerance Levels Due to […]
Can I sell alcohol at a private event without any form of Licence?

Selling alcohol at a private event in England or Wales usually requires a Licence, even if the event is not open to the general public. The key distinction is between selling alcohol and providing it free of charge. When You Need a Licence: You must have a licence if: In these cases, you can apply […]
Your Photo Looks Nothing Like You on Your Personal Licence? Here’s What to Do

Your Personal Licence is a legal document that authorises you to sell or supervise the sale of alcohol in England and Wales. It includes a photocard and a paper counterpart, and both parts are used to verify your identity and credentials. If your appearance has changed significantly – whether due to age, hairstyle, facial hair, […]
Your Old Address on Your Personal Licence? Here’s What to Do

If you’ve moved house and your Personal Licence still shows your old address, it’s important to update it as soon as possible. Under the Licensing Act 2003, Personal Licence Holders are legally required to keep their Licence details up to date – including their name and address. Why It Matters: Your Personal Licence is a […]
You’ve Left the Business but You’re Still Listed as DPS? Here’s What to Do

If you’ve moved on from a licensed premises but are still named as the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) on the Premises Licence, it’s important to act quickly. As the DPS, you remain legally responsible for the sale of alcohol at that premises—even if you’re no longer involved in its operation. Why It Matters: The premises […]
Why Keeping DPS Details Up to Date Is Essential

In England and Wales, the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) plays a pivotal role in the lawful and responsible sale of alcohol under the Licensing Act 2003. Every premises licensed to sell alcohol must have a named DPS who holds a valid personal licence. This individual is responsible for the day-to-day management of the premises and […]
What Is National Pubwatch?

Here at The Licensing Guys, we fully support National Pubwatch! National Pubwatch was established to support existing Pubwatch schemes and encourage the creation of new ones. Its primary aim is to help reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder by fostering cooperation between licensees, Local Authorities, and Police. It does not manage or accredit local schemes directly, […]
What Happens When a Premises Licence Is Reviewed? – A Guide for Licensees and Managers

What Is a Licence Review? A Review is a formal process under the Licensing Act 2003 that allows concerns about a Licensed Premises to be examined by the Local Authority. It can lead to changes to the Licence – or even its suspension or revocation – if the premises is found to be undermining one […]
What Happens If a Pubwatch Member serves breaks the Pubwatch Ban themselves?

This is a common question that pops up at Training Courses, whereby one licensee alleges that a competitor premises is allowing persons who are banned by the Pubwatch to drink in their bar. Overview: Pubwatch relies on mutual cooperation. If one member disregards a ban, it weakens the collective deterrent and may encourage banned individuals […]