Checking Age Identification and Preventing Access to Underage Persons
This domain tests the practical ID check: whether the document is genuine, whether it belongs to the person, and whether the date of birth actually makes the buyer 21 today. Louisiana's legal age for alcohol purchase and consumption is 21.
Acceptable ID checks
Use a government-issued photo ID. Check the photo match, date of birth, expiration, and signs of tampering. Common accepted forms include a Louisiana driver's license or state ID, a U.S. military ID, and a U.S. or foreign passport; accept only forms your employer and ATC policy permit. Do not accept expired IDs, photocopies, photos on a phone, or IDs that look altered. A vertical layout often signals under 21, but not every state uses it; never rely on orientation alone.
Calculate, do not guess
If the DOB is 2004-08-12 and today is 2025-08-11, the person is still 20 and sale is prohibited. On 2025-08-12, the 21st birthday, sale may be allowed if the ID is otherwise valid. When in doubt, refuse.
Worked example
A customer orders a beer and hands over an expired Louisiana ID showing a birth date that would make her 22. The age calculation is fine, but the ID is not valid; ask for another acceptable ID. If none is available, refuse. Do not accept I left my valid one at home.
Traps
Selling to a minor's older friend; accepting a borrowed ID; not checking the back; assuming a wedding ring or beard proves age; serving before checking because someone else placed the order. Refusal should be calm and final; involve a manager if needed.