How OCSA Works

The Online Competition Standards Authority (OCSA) operates as an independent standards body for the UK’s online prize-draw sector.

Our role is to set clear standards, assess operator compliance, and provide a transparent certification framework that promotes fairness, accountability, and consumer protection.

OCSA certification is voluntary, but it is not automatic, guaranteed, or permanent.

1. Standards Framework

OCSA standards operate alongside the UK Government’s Voluntary Code of Good Practice for Prize Draw Operators.

All operators seeking OCSA certification must:

  • Evidence current alignment with the Government Voluntary Code, or enter a documented remediation pathway before certification can be considered; and

  • where applicable, meet the requirements of the OCSA Code of Practice, and

  • Where applicable, meet OCSA Enhanced Standards.

OCSA standards are designed to raise industry expectations, not replace statutory regulation.

2. Application & Initial Assessment

Operators begin by submitting an initial eligibility application.

This allows OCSA to assess:

  • the nature of the operator’s activities

  • the types of competitions offered

  • compliance approach and intent

  • suitability for certification

Submission of an application does not guarantee certification.

3. Two-Stage Application Process

OCSA operates a two-stage application process.

Stage 1 — Initial Eligibility Review

All applicants must complete an initial application.

This stage determines whether an operator is suitable to proceed.

Stage 2 — Full Application (Silver & Gold)

Operators applying for Silver or Gold certification are required to complete a full formal application, including additional disclosures and documentation.

OCSA may request further information at any stage.

4. Review & Decision

Applications are reviewed by OCSA against published standards.

Following review, OCSA may:

  • grant certification

  • grant certification subject to conditions

  • recommend a different certification level

  • defer a decision pending further information

  • refuse certification

Decisions are issued in writing.

Where certification is refused, OCSA will provide reasons for the decision.
Where appropriate, OCSA may indicate the areas that would need to be addressed before a future application could be considered.

5. Certification & Badges

Approved operators are granted certification at the appropriate level:

  • Certified

  • Silver

  • Gold

All levels of Certified operator receive:

  • an authorised certification badge

  • badge usage guidance

  • a unique OCSA operator reference

  • inclusion on the public OCSA register

Certification badges may only be displayed while certification remains active and in good standing.

6. Ongoing Oversight

OCSA certification is subject to ongoing oversight.

This may include:

  • periodic reviews

  • compliance checks

  • assessment of complaints or concerns

  • review of advertising and promotional practices

Certification may be suspended or withdrawn where standards are not maintained.

7. Post-deadline Code alignment

Following the 20 May 2026 implementation deadline, OCSA certification is available only where an operator can evidence alignment with the applicable DCMS Code requirements within the stated certification scope.

Where gaps are identified, OCSA may recommend remediation before certification can be awarded. Failure to maintain alignment may result in suspension or withdrawal of certification.

8. Independence & Scope

OCSA is independent of competition operators and does not regulate gambling.

OCSA certification:

  • does not replace statutory regulation

  • does not guarantee outcomes

  • does not remove operator responsibility

Certification reflects compliance with published standards at the time of assessment.

Next Steps

Operators wishing to engage with OCSA should begin by submitting an application.

Learn more