Alcohol Server · Alcohol Laws and Regulations

What should a seller do if they are unsure whether a particular sale is legal?

Correct answer

Decline or pause the sale and check the law or ask a manager rather than risk an illegal sale

  1. A Make the sale to avoid upsetting the customer
  2. B Decline or pause the sale and check the law or ask a manager rather than risk an illegal sale
  3. C Always refuse all sales
  4. D Guess based on the customer's appearance

Why this is the answer

If a seller is unsure whether a sale is legal — for example, about a customer's age, level of intoxication, or the hours of sale — the responsible action is to pause the sale and verify by checking the law or asking a manager, rather than risk making an illegal sale. The consequences of an illegal sale (fines, criminal charges, loss of certification, liability) far outweigh the discomfort of a brief delay. When in doubt, do not serve until you have confirmed the sale is lawful. This cautious approach is central to responsible service.
Source: Responsible Beverage Service — When in Doubt