Policing.uk

Test Purchases and Entry to Licensed Premises

Licensing Act 2003, s.147A and s.154

  • Warrant: No
  • Force: No
  • Notice: No

Authorises the use of test purchases by trading standards officers and police to detect the sale of alcohol to persons under 18. Officers conducting test purchase operations have the power to enter licensed premises for this purpose. A constable or trading standards officer may also enter and inspect premises to investigate offences under the Act, including underage sales and sales to intoxicated persons.

Conditions

  • The operation must be conducted by or under the direction of a constable or trading standards officer
  • The young person used for the test purchase must be under 18
  • The premises must be licensed for the sale of alcohol

Limitations

  • The young person must not be encouraged to do anything other than make a purchase
  • Test purchase operations must comply with PACE and relevant codes of practice
  • Results of test purchases may be used as evidence in prosecution or licence review proceedings

Last updated 24 September 2026