Cannot serve an individual under 21
Identification and Age Verification: Bartenders are often required to check the identification of customers to ensure they are of legal drinking age. Fake IDs and providing alcohol to minors are illegal and can result in penalties.
Responsible Beverage Service: Many states have laws that require bartenders and servers to undergo responsible beverage service training. These programs teach bartenders and servers how to identify and handle situations involving intoxicated patrons and minors.
Hours of Operation: States and even local jurisdictions can have different rules governing the hours during which alcohol can be sold and served. Some places may have different closing times for bars, restaurants, and retail stores.
Licensing and Permits: Bartenders and establishments that serve alcohol typically require various licenses and permits, including liquor licenses, food service permits, and health department approvals. These requirements can vary widely by state and locality.
Alcohol Sales and Consumption: Some states have "dry" counties or cities where the sale of alcohol is prohibited. There may also be restrictions on where alcohol can be consumed, such as in public places, parks, or certain events.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits: It is illegal to serve alcohol to someone who is already intoxicated. Bars and restaurants can face penalties for over-serving patrons, as it can lead to drunk driving and other problems. State laws typically set a maximum BAC level for driving, often 0.08%.
Dram Shop Laws: Some states have "dram shop" laws that hold bars and restaurants liable for accidents and injuries caused by patrons who were over-served.
Liability Insurance: Establishments that serve alcohol may be required to carry liability insurance in case of legal claims resulting from alcohol-related incidents.
Taxation and Pricing: The pricing and taxation of alcoholic beverages can also vary by state. Some states have government-run liquor stores, while others allow private sales.