Wembley Stadium is one of the most iconic sports venues in the UK and hosts numerous high-profile events each year, from football matches to concerts. With large crowds flocking to see the action, security at Wembley is understandably tight. One question fans often have is whether they will need to show ID to gain entry to events at Wembley.
Do they check ID for football matches?
For football matches at Wembley Stadium, adult fans will need to show ID when collecting their tickets or entering the stadium. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Passport
- Photocard driving license
- National ID card
This ID verification is in place for all senior football matches at Wembley, including Premier League, FA Cup, and England international fixtures. Fans aged 16 and under do not need to show ID. The purpose of checking ID is to:
- Confirm the identity of the person collecting the tickets
- Ensure tickets are not passed on to unauthorized individuals
- Reduce ticket touting
Before traveling to Wembley, supporters must check the specific ID requirements for their match. Some fixtures may allow other forms of ID, but a passport or photocard license is universally accepted. Fans must bring valid ID that matches the details provided when purchasing tickets.
Is ID required for concerts?
The ID requirements for concerts and other events at Wembley Stadium vary depending on the policies of the event organizer or artist. For most major concerts, adult attendees will need to show acceptable photo ID to enter the venue.
Wembley’s online guidance states that for concerts, valid PHOTO ID will be required and should match the details provided at the time of booking. If fans cannot provide accepted ID, they may be refused entry without refund. As with football matches, passport and photocard licenses are the preferred ID options for concerts.
The ID verification aims to stop ticket resale and ensure the safety of concertgoers. Artists such as Ed Sheeran, The Eagles, and Pink have requested strict ID checks for their Wembley shows. However, the rules can differ depending on the performer, so check before traveling.
Is ID required for children?
In most cases, children under a certain age will not need to show ID to enter Wembley Stadium. The minimum age varies depending on the event:
- Football matches – Under 16s don’t need ID
- Concerts – Age limits vary, usually under 14s or 16s don’t need ID
- Other events – Check event information for age policies
Children who don’t need ID must be accompanied by an adult. The accompanying adult will need to show valid photo ID matching their ticket details. Always check the specific requirements before attending an event at Wembley Stadium.
What if I forget my ID?
If you forget to bring acceptable ID to a match or concert at Wembley Stadium, you will be refused entry. The venue staff strictly enforce the ID policy for safety and security reasons. There are no exceptions for forgotten or lost ID.
If you arrive at Wembley without valid ID, you will not be allowed past the ticket checkpoints. Unfortunately no refunds are provided in this situation. Fans are strongly advised to check they have the correct ID before leaving for the stadium.
Make sure your ID meets all the requirements – photocard, in date, matches booking details etc. If you have any doubts, contact the Wembley ticket office ahead of the event for advice.
Accepted forms of ID
Wembley Stadium accepts the following PHOTO ID documents for entry to events:
- UK photocard driving license
- UK passport
- EU national ID card
- PASS hologram card
These are the main forms of ID that will be accepted at Wembley. Some events may allow other photo documents depending on the organizer’s policies. Contact Wembley in advance if you have any other ID queries.
ID requirements for non-UK attendees
Fans traveling from outside the UK will need to show a valid passport or national ID card to gain entry to Wembley Stadium. The key requirements are:
- Must be photographic and in date
- Must match the ticket holder’s personal details
- EU national ID cards are accepted
- Non-UK driving licenses are NOT accepted
Overseas attendees should carry their passport when attending events at Wembley to ensure they meet the ID policy. Passports are universally accepted. Let the ticket office know in advance if you need to verify another form of ID.
Can someone collect my ticket with ID?
It may be possible for someone else to collect your tickets from the Wembley box office on your behalf, but there are strict ID requirements:
- The collector must bring a print-out of the ticket holder’s photo ID
- They must also bring their own photo ID
- Details on both IDs must match the ticket booking
Advance authorization must be provided to Wembley before sending someone to collect another person’s tickets. Permission can be granted by contacting Wembley’s customer service team. Provide the collector’s name, ID details and travel dates.
Reasons for ID checks
Wembley Stadium enforces strict ID checks for the following reasons:
- Ensure ticket holder identity and prevent unauthorized entry
- Match tickets to purchaser details to stop resale
- Comply with artist/event demands for ID checks
- Adhere to licensing laws regarding age restrictions
- Maintain high standards of safety and security
While inconvenient at times, the ID policy is important for the smooth and safe running of events at Wembley Stadium. Fans are advised to fully cooperate with steward requests for ID.
Tips for bringing ID to Wembley
To ensure you meet the ID requirements for events at Wembley Stadium, follow these tips:
- Check the specific ID rules for your match/concert
- Have an accepted photo ID document for all adults
- Check IDs are in date and match ticket details
- Store IDs safely and accessibly in your bag/wallet
- Have ID ready at the ticket checkpoints and turnstiles
- Cooperate politely with requests to verify ID
If you follow the above tips, you’ll have no issues with ID checks when attending events at the iconic Wembley Stadium.
Summary
In summary, ID checks are mandatory for entry to events at Wembley Stadium:
- Adult football fans must show photo ID like a passport or driver’s license
- Concerts also require photo ID, with rules varying by performer
- Children below age limits (e.g under 16s) don’t need ID
- Fans without valid ID will be denied entry without refunds
- ID is checked to verify ticketholders and maintain security
- Foreign visitors must bring passports or national ID cards
- Following the tips provided can help attendees meet ID requirements
Wembley Stadium’s ID policy may be strict, but is ultimately in place to protect visitors and create an enjoyable event experience. Fans should check all entry requirements before their match or concert to avoid being turned away at the gates.