What to Do If You’re Unsure About a Customer’s Age

What should you do if you're unsure about a customer's age?

Imagine you're behind the bar—hustling, mixing cocktails, and chatting with patrons, when suddenly, a customer walks up, ordering a drink. But then, that little nagging feeling creeps in: are they old enough? You know what? This is the very moment you need a solid game plan.

A Moment of Uncertainty

It can be tricky to gauge someone's age just by looking at them. Everyone ages at their own pace, and who hasn’t seen a youthful face in their forties or someone who seems older than their years? Here’s the thing: guessing based on appearances can lead you into a world of trouble. Imagine serving a drink to someone only to find out later they’re actually a minor—yikes! That’s a recipe for serious legal consequences, not just for you but also for your establishment.

The Golden Rule: Always Ask for Identification

So, what's the best course of action when you’re not sure? Always ask for identification. Yes, it's that simple. Whether they look like they just graduated high school or are on the verge of turning sixty, verifying someone’s age with an ID is not only a good practice but also your legal duty.

• Protect Yourself: When you ask for ID, you are not only protecting yourself from potential liability but also upholding responsible alcohol service. It shows that you're serious about following the rules—because let's face it, nobody wants to deal with the aftermath of serving alcohol to a minor. The fines and penalties can be steep, and having that trust can save you from a lot of headaches.
• Maintain Standards: Furthermore, this practice reinforces the integrity of your establishment. Customers appreciate when bartenders and servers take their responsibilities seriously; it enhances the establishment's reputation and builds trust with patrons. You might even earn a loyal customer for your diligent service!

What Not to Do

Let’s take a moment to unpack the other options you shouldn't choose:

• Guessing Based on Appearance: Honestly, this is a big no-no. Age can be deceiving, and a fleeting guess can lead you down a path you never wanted to go. Trusting your instincts isn’t precise— after all, they’re just that: instincts.
• Serving Without Verification: Serving someone without checking their ID is not just irresponsible; it's illegal, plain and simple. It also places your livelihood and that of your establishment in jeopardy. Don’t put yourself in that position.
• Refusing Service to Everyone: On the flip side, halting service for everyone just to be cautious isn't the best approach either. It's inconvenient for customers who are of legal drinking age, leading to frustration and potentially lost business. Your goal is to provide excellent service while adhering to the law!

Wrapping It Up

As you prepare for your California Responsible Beverage Service tasks, keep in mind that verifying a customer’s age is crucial to responsible beverage service. It’s not just about following the law; it’s about making sure you provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons.

Not only does it help you maintain your professional integrity, but it also creates a culture of respect and responsibility at your establishment. So, the next time you’re unsure, pull out that trusty ID! It’s your best ally when serving alcohol.

Remember, knowledge is power! As you study for your RBS exam, solidifying these practices will go a long way in ensuring you’re prepared for whatever the bar throws at you.