Today is January 23, 2015, and as a responsible bartender or server, it is important to know which guests you can legally serve alcohol to. The legal drinking age varies across countries and regions, so it is essential to be aware of the laws specific to your location. In the United States, the legal drinking age is 21, and serving alcohol to anyone below this age is strictly prohibited.
As a bartender or server, it is your responsibility to verify the age of any guest who wishes to consume alcohol. To ensure compliance with the law, you can ask for a valid identification document, such as a driver’s license or passport, to confirm the age of the individual.
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the legal drinking age and serving alcohol:
1. Can I serve alcohol to someone who is 20 years and 11 months old?
No, you can only serve alcohol to individuals who are 21 years old or above.
2. What if someone presents a fake ID?
If you suspect that an identification document is fake or altered, you should refuse to serve alcohol to the individual and inform your supervisor or manager.
3. Can I serve alcohol to someone who is under the legal drinking age if their parents are present?
No, the legal drinking age applies to all individuals, regardless of whether their parents are present.
4. Can I serve alcohol to someone who looks older than 21?
Appearance alone is not a sufficient indicator of someone’s age. Always ask for an identification document to confirm their age.
5. Can I serve alcohol at private events such as weddings or parties?
Private events may have specific permits or licenses allowing alcohol service to guests of legal drinking age. Ensure that you are familiar with the event’s regulations.
6. Can I serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated?
No, it is illegal and unsafe to serve alcohol to someone who is already intoxicated.
7. What if the guest refuses to show identification?
You have the right to refuse service if the guest fails to provide valid identification.
8. Can I serve alcohol to someone who is 18 or 19 years old?
In some regions, there may be exceptions to the legal drinking age for certain circumstances, such as drinking in a private residence. However, it is crucial to check local laws and regulations.
9. Can I accept an identification document written in a language I do not understand?
It is best to accept identification documents that are written in a language you can understand or use a reliable translation service to confirm the guest’s age.
10. Can I serve alcohol to a foreign guest who is of legal drinking age in their country?
Foreign guests must still adhere to the legal drinking age in the country they are currently in.
11. Can I serve alcohol to someone who is 20 years old but will turn 21 tomorrow?
No, the legal drinking age is based on the current age of the guest, not their upcoming birthday.
12. Can I serve alcohol to someone who is on medication?
As a server, it is not your responsibility to know if someone is on medication. However, if someone appears intoxicated or impaired, it is best to refuse service.
Remember, it is crucial to be aware of the legal drinking age and follow the guidelines and regulations set by your local authorities. By doing so, you can ensure a safe and responsible environment for your guests and yourself.