Grand Theft Auto 6 is finally on the horizon, and gaming enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating its release after more than a decade of waiting for the next installment. The highly anticipated game is set to launch on November 19, ending a 13-year gap since the release of GTA V in 2013. For millions of fans, this date is poised to be a monumental gaming event.
For those unfamiliar with the GTA series, it immerses players in vast open-world cities where they can engage in the main storyline, steal cars, visit various establishments, create chaos, or simply cruise around while tuning in to the eccentric in-game radio stations. The gameplay revolves around crime, high-speed vehicles, and plenty of action, offering a diverse range of experiences for players.
However, a notable requirement upon the game’s release in November is that players in Australia must possess a valid driver’s license to access GTA 6. This mandate stems from new online safety regulations introduced in March, necessitating age verification checks for Australian gamers, particularly for those interested in the online multiplayer mode, with a driver’s license being the primary form of identification accepted for this process.
While this requirement may seem localized to Australia, other nations are contemplating similar measures following the country’s implementation of stringent social media regulations. In the UK, for instance, plans have been announced to ban social media use by individuals under 16, expected to be enforced in spring 2027, along with imposing an overnight app curfew for minors.
France is also moving in a comparable direction, with lawmakers approving a ban preventing individuals under 15 from opening social media accounts starting September 1. Australia, being among the initial countries where GTA 6 will be accessible, mandates age verification for R18+ content to ensure adult user compliance, paired with escalated penalties for non-compliant companies as part of efforts to enhance online child protection.
Despite these regulatory changes, there is a silver lining for Australian gamers, as Rockstar has already implemented an age verification system for current GTA Online players, set to carry over to the forthcoming GTA 6 release. Therefore, gamers aiming to delve into GTA 6 online from its launch day are advised to undergo early license verification, potentially making it a prudent move for the year ahead.