Age-restricted sales

Video works, such as films, and video games are classified based on their content. They are rated based on their suitability for different age groups. The sale, hire, loan and exchange of all video works are regulated. Video works and games must be labelled with their correct classification.

Certain video works are exempt from classification, such as educational material.

You must exercise ‘due diligence’ to ensure that you do not sell video works or games to anyone under the legal age. See prevent underage sales.

Video works classification

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) classifies video works according to the material they contain (criminal behaviour, sex, violence, bad language, drugs, etc). It can issue or refuse classification certificates.

There are a number of classifications:

• U – suitable for all
• PG – parental guidance
• 12A – cinema release suitable for 12 years and older
• 12 – video release suitable for 12 years and older
• 15 – suitable only for 15 years and older
• 18 – suitable only for adults
• R18 – adult works suitable only for licensed premises

Video works rated U and PG can be sold to customers of any age. The other ratings may only be sold to customers above the rating age.

Video games classification

The Video Standards Council (VSC) is responsible for classifying video games using the Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) system. Video games are classified as:

• 3 – suitable for all age groups
• 7 – some content may not be suitable for younger children
• 12 – suitable for 12 years and over
• 16 – suitable for 16 years and over
• 18 – suitable for 18 years and over

Games rated 3 and 7 may be sold to anyone. The other ratings may only be sold to those who meet the age requirements.

The PEGI system also includes icons that describe the content that led to the game’s rating, such as violence, bad language or drug references.