Parts of an effective alcohol service policy

How to check ID

• Compare picture on ID with the customer
• Check birthday
• Examine the card for signs of falsification or tampering
• Use an electronic ID card reading device/scanner
• Check the US Driver License Booklet
• Have a list of valid forms of ID
  • Drivers’ license
  • State ID
  • Military ID
  • Passport

When to check ID

• Set a specific age/appearance for carding or card everyone.
• Card all guests after a certain time i.e., 9:00 p.m.

Underage patrons

• How to prohibit the sale or service of alcohol to individuals under the age of 21 years old.
• What to do if someone is purchasing alcohol for an underage person.
• Conduct Youth Alcohol Compliance Checks (Self Audits).
  • Are there rewards for employees who pass Youth Alcohol Compliance checks? 

Over-intoxicated person

• How to discourage over-intoxication, such as denying an intoxicated guest entry.
• How to discourage an intoxicated person from driving home.

Ways employees can acknowledge and understand the policy

• Receive a copy of the policy
• Read and sign the policy

Ways for employees to uphold the policy

• Attend Alcohol Server Training upon hire and on an annual basis
• Policy and procedures manual
• Employee agreement
• Memos
• Staff meetings
• On-the-job acknowledgements
• Audits
• Refreshers by management

Consequences for violating this alcohol service policy

• Warning
• Probation
• Suspension
• Termination

Other items to consider

• How to stop employees or customers from drinking on the premises after hours.
• Where to post signs about your alcohol service policy.
• Where to post signs informing customers about alcohol laws.