At what age should you card individuals to verify their identity?

The practice of carding individuals to verify their identity, particularly in contexts such as serving alcohol or allowing entry into age-restricted areas, typically aligns with guidelines that aim to prevent underage access while not imposing unnecessary restrictions on older patrons. The age of 30 is often chosen as a common benchmark in many establishments because it not only effectively minimizes the risk of serving underage individuals but also serves as a reasonable threshold. This age is sufficiently above the legal drinking age, ensuring that most patrons will not need to show identification.

Carding at this age accounts for variations in appearance, recognizing that individuals in their late 20s and younger may still look underage. Thus, the age of 30 strikes a balance between ensuring compliance with the law and promoting a respectful experience for all patrons.