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Overview

How to check IDs, refuse service when required, and follow Michigan law. Time: 5–7 min.

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Core Responsibilities

• Verify age 21+ every time. Compare photo and physical description
• Inspect IDs for tampering and inconsistencies. Ask for a second ID when in doubt
• Do not serve visibly intoxicated guests. Involve a manager immediately
• Document refusals or incidents per manager guidance

Serving Minors

State law requires that individuals must be this age before consuming alcoholic beverages. This law is a key part of Michigan's alcohol control and public safety measures. All liquor servers—including bartenders, waitstaff, and retail clerks—have a legal responsibility to uphold state liquor laws consistently. Anyone involved in distributing or serving alcoholic beverages must ensure compliance. Failing to meet this obligation can result in serious legal consequences for both individual servers and their establishments.

Serving alcohol to minors carries severe legal and financial consequences. Servers who violate this law face substantial fines, potential criminal charges, and possible job loss. The establishment also bears significant liability, with fines that can reach thousands of dollars. The Michigan Liquor Control Commission can suspend or revoke the establishment's liquor license—a devastating outcome that threatens the entire business. These penalties highlight how seriously the state treats underage drinking violations and reflect the public safety concerns associated with alcohol consumption by minors.

Related References

Checking Identification

Always be gracious and pleasant as this may be an embarrassing moment for your guests. You may be sympathetic, but be firm. Remember, you are liable if you serve a minor. Make sure the identification shows proof of age and physical description. Check for the following:

• Does the photo match?
• Does the date indicate the guest is over 21?
• If there is no photo, does the physical description match?
• Are there any typing errors? If so, it has been altered.

When in doubt, ask for a second ID, match it according to the first. Take your time and be sure everything is in order. If you suspect the identification is false, see your manager immediately.

You may also use this if you are seeking more clarity on what to look out for: