Isle of Man OFT – apply for your Proof of Age Card by post

The Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading will introduce a postal system for applications for the Isle of Man Government 18+ Proof of Age Card from 1st May 2010.

The sale of cigarettes and tobacco products, alcohol, fireworks, solvents, videos and petrol are all controlled by laws which restrict the age at which they can be bought. Retailers and licensees can find it difficult to assess the age of young people wishing to buy these goods. The 18+ Proof of Age card was introduced to help them comply with the law. It allows anyone of 18 years or more to buy the goods they want hassle-free. The Office has found that under 18s have been deterred from trying to buy when they see the Proof of Age card is required.

People applying for cards have always had to visit the Office in person however the Office will introduce the new process which will be more convenient for applicants whilst still retaining the levels of security used in the production of the card. The same stringent checks on identity and date of birth will continue as before. Applications will still be accepted at the Office counter if an applicant would prefer to do this.

Application forms which explain the new process can be obtained from the Office’s website www.gov.im/oft or from its office in Lord Street Douglas, telephone 686500. Applicants should note that they will need to provide a passport quality and style photograph when they submit their application.

Chairman of the Office, Bill Henderson MHK said “The cards are a very popular way of proving age and are a more convenient and safer method than using passports or driving licenses. We are pleased to be able to introduce the postal system as an additional method of application. Retailers and licensees can be assured that the process remains as secure as ever and the only difference is an improvement in service for those wishing to apply”.