OpenAI to Implement Age Verification for ChatGPT Users

Published on February 17, 2026

A significant change is coming for ChatGPT users globally: OpenAI, the company behind the artificial intelligence model, is deploying age verification for its users. The rollout will initiate in Europe in the coming weeks.

Why is OpenAI Verifying User Ages?

Historically, OpenAI has been relatively flexible regarding the age of ChatGPT users. However, increasing pressure from international regulators, particularly in Europe with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and in the United States, is prompting OpenAI to strengthen its policies. A week ago, the company announced it is deploying an “age prediction” system within ChatGPT [1].

This is not an automatic verification of age. Instead, if the system detects usage patterns deemed inappropriate for a minor, a more concrete identity verification will be requested. Users who refuse to comply will be assumed to be under 18, and their access to certain features will be restricted.

“ChatGPT has additional safety settings for teens. These settings help keep the experience safe and age-appropriate. They may limit certain sensitive content and certain types of interactions,” explains OpenAI’s help page [2]. “Sensitive content” includes graphic violence, sexually suggestive role-playing, viral challenges that could encourage risky behavior, and content related to extreme beauty standards or unhealthy body image.

Users 18 or older can opt out of these settings by verifying their age.

How Will OpenAI Verify Age?

OpenAI will utilize Persona, a service already used by platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, and Lyft, to validate user identity and age. This process requires a valid government-issued ID, which will be photographed, and a facial scan to confirm the identity of the individual [3].

For users who rely on ChatGPT as a daily tool, verification will be essential to maintain full functionality. However, this approach may raise privacy concerns for those hesitant to share their identity online. They may choose alternative tools, but increased age verification is anticipated across the industry in the coming years.

OpenAI and Discord

This move follows a similar recent implementation by Discord, which as well began verifying user ages, a change that received criticism from its community [1].