How to Determine If Someone Is of Legal Drinking Age

If you need to find out if someone is of legal drinking age, read on for some simple and consistent steps you can follow. Look carefully at the identification (ID) someone presents!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Valid driver’s license
• Flashlight

1. Ask each person to show his or her ID to you.
2. Visually “match” the person presenting the identification to the physical characteristics of those listed on the ID. One of the most common kinds of false ID's are borrowed ones from older, of-age siblings who do often look very much like the person trying to use it. Plus, it is easier for under-age people to memorize a sibling's information.
3. Check for the date of birth and the expiration date first. The date of birth establishes what age someone is claiming to be. If it's past the expiration date, it's no longer considered valid. Ask for another ID.
4. Compare the photograph on the ID to the person in front of you. Hair color can change, as can eye color (color contacts), so simply ask. They may answer smoothly, or fumble for an answer if they are trying to get away with something.
5. Shine a flashlight to the back of the identification to highlight cuts or abrasions that might indicate that someone has attempted to alter the ID.
6. If you have doubts about an ID. Ask for a second form of identification or tell the person that a manager will have to approve the one presented.
7. Another effective tool is the “30 second” rule. Continue to glance at the ID and also look at the person every few seconds or so without saying a word. You will not be thinking about anything, but they will be. They will think that you have spotted what looks “fishy” about the ID and they will begin offering explanations. It may not mean the ID is false; but it will give you a good reason to ask for a second form of identification.
8. If you have doubts at any time, do not serve the alcohol or allow the service. That is your legal right as long as your decision is not based upon discrimination of that service.

Tips & Warnings

• Your state’s liquor control board will be able to direct you as to how to obtain up-to-date, yearly-issued driver’s license booklets that will help you to determine the accuracy of identification presented from your or any other state.
• Note if the person seems nervous and moves around quickly.
• Note if the person claims to be a friend of an employee or knows an owner.
• Note if the person is in the restroom while everyone else orders.
• Note if the person gets upset when asked for an ID--or is too anxious to present one since they have it memorized.
• Note if the person orders an unusual drink for someone their age.