What ID Do You Need for a Piercing in the UK

Introduction: Why Studios Ask for ID

Getting a piercing is a personal choice, but it is also a regulated procedure. In the UK, professional piercing studios are required to follow licensing rules that protect both clients and practitioners. One of the most common requirements is proof of age. Even if you look old enough, most studios will still ask for ID to ensure they are following the law and their own policies. Knowing what forms of ID are accepted helps you avoid disappointment on the day of your piercing.

Age Rules for Piercings in the UK

There is no single national law that sets a minimum age for every type of piercing, but there are restrictions. Intimate piercings such as nipple and genital piercings are strictly 18 and over. Other piercings, such as ears, noses, lips and navels, can sometimes be done at younger ages, but this depends on the studio’s own policy and local council regulations. Many studios set a minimum of 16 for most piercings unless a parent or guardian is present.

Accepted Forms of ID

Most piercing studios in the UK will only accept government-issued identification. The most common and reliable options are:

• A valid passport

• A driving licence or provisional driving licence

• A PASS card (Proof of Age Standards Scheme), which is specifically designed to prove age in the UK

These forms of ID are photo-based and show your date of birth, which makes them clear and verifiable for piercers. Photocopies or pictures on a phone are usually not accepted, as studios need to see the original document.

Parental Consent and Younger Clients

For clients under 16, some studios will allow piercings if a parent or legal guardian is present and can also provide ID. The guardian may be asked to sign a consent form, and in some cases, studios may request proof of the relationship, such as a birth certificate. Policies vary widely, so it is always worth contacting the studio in advance to check their requirements.

Why ID Matters for Studios

Studios that fail to check ID risk fines, loss of licence and legal action. More importantly, they risk their reputation for professionalism and safety. By checking ID, they ensure that consent is valid and that they are not performing piercings on clients who are too young for certain procedures. This protects both the client and the piercer.

What Happens If You Do Not Have ID

If you arrive at a piercing studio without valid ID, it is very likely you will be turned away. Even if you look older, a responsible studio will not take the risk of piercing without proof. Bringing the correct ID is the simplest way to avoid wasted trips and disappointment.

Final Thought

In the UK, you need government-issued photo ID such as a passport, driving licence or PASS card for a piercing. Some studios may accept parental consent for younger clients, but policies vary, and intimate piercings are always restricted to adults. To make sure your appointment goes smoothly, always bring valid ID with you, and contact the studio in advance if you are unsure about their requirements.