The Importance of Checking IDs: Preventing Underage Alcohol Sales

10/6/20252 min read

Checking IDs:

Don't Be Fooled by Looks

When it comes to consuming alcohol, it's crucial to remember the legal age is 21 in Colorado and many other states across the U.S. In 2024, the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division identified sales to underage individuals as the number one violation. This points to a significant need for vigilance among servers and sellers of alcoholic beverages.

It can be tempting to assume someone looks old enough to drink but looks can be deceiving. That's why it's essential to check IDs for anyone who appears to be of questionable age. A simple glance won't suffice; you must verify that the ID is valid and indeed belongs to the person standing in front of you. Questionable age can be very subjective, the older I get, the younger people seem to me. Yes, I have found myself asking for the ID of a 42-year-old man. But at the moment of the sale, I was not 100% certain of his age. For younger servers the challenge can be that people may look older than they are. A 20-year-old person may appear to be older to a 22-year-old server. Allowing a minor to take even just a sip can lead to legal headaches, as the server will be held responsible for ensuring compliance with the law.

Best Practices for ID Verification

When serving alcohol, always ask for an ID, this is especially important with people who are of questionable age. Here are some best practices for checking IDs:

  • Carefully inspect the ID for signs of tampering or forgery. If anything seems off, don’t hesitate to deny the sale.

  • Make sure the photo on the ID matches the individual. Comparing features can help catch anyone trying to use a fake ID.

  • Understand the different types of IDs. Familiarize yourself with your state’s acceptable forms of identification and maintain a list of what you will or won't accept.

  • Trust your instincts! If you feel uncomfortable with an ID, don't accept it. It’s better to be cautious than to risk violations that can impact your business.

No matter the atmosphere negligence in checking IDs can lead to severe consequences. Not only will the server face a fine, but it can it hurt your establishment's reputation, and it can also lead to fines or suspension of your liquor license. Remember that parents can't take full responsibility when their minors are out in a liquor-licensed establishment; that responsibility falls to the server.

Always check IDs and ensure they are valid. This not only keeps you compliant with the law but also promotes a safe drinking environment. With increasing violations related to underage alcohol sales, don’t be caught off guard. Staying vigilant in checking IDs is the first line of defense against underage drinking. So, the next time you serve a drink, remember don’t let appearances mislead you—as I always say in my classes.

check IDs! Check Ids! Check IDs, Check IDs! Check IDs!