How Many Scratch Cards Can You Buy at Once in the UK?
Ever wondered if there’s a limit to how many scratch cards you can buy in one go at your local shop? It’s a common question, especially with so many options lined up behind the counter.
Whether you are picking up one or thinking about grabbing a couple, there are a few rules and shop practices worth knowing before you head to the till.
If you are also considering playing scratch card games online, the experience works a little differently to buying in person. Read on to learn more.
Are There Legal Limits on Buying Scratch Cards in One Go?
In the UK, there is a legal cap of 10 scratch cards per purchase for adults. Shops must check that buyers are 18 or over, and staff may ask for ID if you appear underage. Retailers are not required to sell up to the cap and may apply their own rules.
Many retailers have their own internal policies. Some cap purchases at or below 10 cards, particularly if you are asking for a large quantity or a full pack. These are store rules rather than additional national law, used to manage stock, prevent unusual transactions and keep sales straightforward.
Online, the setup differs because everything runs through an account. Platforms may apply daily or transaction limits as part of safer gambling controls. Limits vary by site, so it might be a good idea to check the rules where you play.
If you do decide to try your hand at scratch cards, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How Retailers Handle Bulk Scratch Card Purchases
In-person sales are shaped by store policies that sit alongside the regulator’s guidance. This is where you see the practical checks that come with a request for multiple cards.
Store Policies and ID Checks
When a customer asks for a large number of scratch cards, staff may pause the sale to confirm a few details. That can include an age check, a brief chat about the size of the purchase, or a decision to reduce the quantity. Cashiers are allowed to refuse a sale if it does not fit their policy or feels out of step with normal buying patterns. For National Lottery products, tills will enforce the 10-card limit per purchase.
Age Restrictions and Responsible Play Guidelines
The law is clear that scratch cards are for adults only. Stores display age warnings and train staff to prevent underage sales. They also look out for patterns that suggest a purchase might be excessive and can choose not to proceed if they have concerns.
The same age rule applies online, where verification is carried out electronically during registration. UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)-licensed operators also provide tools such as time-outs or self-exclusion for those who want to manage their play.
Can You Buy Scratch Cards in Bulk Online?
In the UK, digital scratch cards are available on lottery and casino websites. You do not buy a physical stack. Each play is purchased one at a time, typically priced from about £1 to £5 per game, so there is no single transaction that lets you load dozens into a basket. For National Lottery digital scratch cards, a 10-card limit applies per purchase.
Operators use player-protection systems to manage rapid repeat play. You might see prompts to review your activity, optional time-outs, or deposit and spend caps that you can set yourself. Some sites also apply default limits in line with regulatory rules.
The exact approach varies by website, so it could be worth checking the terms and the controls available before you start. All licensed operators must verify age and provide meaningful tools to help you manage your play.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.