National Age Card Scheme
Information
The Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988 (Age Card) Regulations 2007 provide for a voluntary National Age Card scheme in Ireland. Age Cards can be obtained by individuals in Ireland aged 18 and over to show that they have reached the legal age for purchasing alcohol. This Card is a proof of age card and is not an identity card. In fact, the Card can only be used to show you have reached the legal age for purchasing alcohol. It should not be obtained or used for any other purpose.
Rules
If you live in Ireland and have reached 18 years, you can apply for an Age Card. The law does not state that you must be an Irish citizen to apply for the Card. However, you must be living in Ireland and your application must include the documents set out below.
When applying for an Age Card you will require:
- Your birth certificate
- Your passport, your driving licence or your GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau) Card
- One recent passport-sized photograph
- A credit/debit card or an age card voucher (available from any post office)
Authentication
The Age Card shows:
- Your name
- Your date of birth
- A photograph identifying you
- Relevant security features (such as a metal hologram, embossed symbol, encoded magnetic stripe, etc.)
Replacing a lost/misplaced National Age Card
If you have lost your National Age Card, the application process to replace your Card is the same as for a new Age Card (see How to apply' below). You will be required to make a report on the loss or theft of your original Card when presenting your application for authentication at your local Garda Station.
There is a charge of €10 for a replacement National Age Card.
New National Age Cards issued from April 2007
On 24 April 2007 a new style National Age Card was launched. If you held a valid National Age Card before 24 April 2007 this Card is still valid and you are not obliged to change it. Some establishments, however, no longer accept them.
Rates
An Age Card costs €10. A replacement National Age Card also costs €10 euro.
You are required to pay online when you are applying for an Age Card. You can do this using a debit or credit card, or an age card voucher which you can purchase in any post office.
How to apply
Since January 2011 you apply and pay for your Age Card online at www.agecard.ie. Within 3 working days of applying you will receive an application form containing your details.
You must take the application form, along with your photograph and proofs of identity to your local Garda Station for authentication within 3 months. The Garda Station will forward your application form and photograph to the Age Card section and you will receive your Age Card within 10 working days.
You can track your application online provided you know your 6-digit application form number.
Where to apply
You apply online for your Age Card at www.agecard.ie. The website has an FAQ section with further information.
Language
Related Documents
- Applying for an Irish Passport
Application procedures involved in getting an Irish Passport, including for those living outside Ireland. - Renewing an Irish Passport
Application procedures involved in renewing an Irish Passport, including for those living outside Ireland. - Alcohol and the law
Laws in place in Ireland regarding the serving of alcohol on licensed premises and off-licences, drinking in public and drink driving.
Contact Us
If you have a question relating to this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0761 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm) or you can visit your local Citizens Information Centre.