What to Do When You Get Carded Trying to Buy Alcohol Underage

The age at which you can legally purchase alcohol in the United States is 21. However, there are instances when you may find yourself in a situation where you are asked to show identification before purchasing alcohol, even if you are attempting to buy with friends. If you are under the legal age, understanding the correct procedure to follow when you get carded is essential.

The Correct Answer: Don't Try to Buy Alcohol Until You Are 21

Legally, minors who are under the age of 21 can be arrested for attempting to purchase alcohol. Moreover, if caught with alcohol in their possession, they can face severe legal consequences. It is imperative to respect the age laws and avoid attempting to buy alcohol until you are 21.

What to Do If You Get Carded

When you are asked to show identification and you do not have one, the best course of action is to be honest. Acknowledge that you don't have ID and do not attempt to argue your case. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to handle the situation:

Admit Lack of ID: If you are asked for ID and do not have it, simply state that you do not have it with you and thank the cashiers for their time. Apologize for any inconvenience caused. Leave the Alcohol: Place the alcohol back on the counter and leave the store. Do not linger or continue to argue. Avoid Suspicion: Do not wait outside the store for a friend or relative to buy the alcohol for you. This could raise suspicion and lead to further legal trouble. Avoid Secret Shoppers: Be aware that secret shoppers may be monitoring the transaction. If you engage in behavior that suggests you are underage, you could face additional consequences.

The Risks of Attempts to Bribe or Bluff

Attempting to bluff or bribe the cashier to purchase alcohol can have serious consequences. Here are a few reasons why this is not a wise strategy:

Job Insecurity: Cashiers may lose their jobs if they do not card individuals who appear to be under the legal age. This can create an environment where cashiers are more vigilant about age checks. Potential Criminal Charges: If someone attempts to purchase alcohol using false identification or by intimidating the cashier, they can face legal consequences. The store could also lose its license to sell alcohol, which could result in closure. Test Purchases: Secret shoppers or law enforcement officials could be monitoring the store. If you attempt to purchase alcohol under false pretenses, they could use this information to charge you with a criminal offense.

Legal Implications and Consequences

Even if you are close to turning 21 and believe you can purchase alcohol if you try hard enough, it is crucial to understand that there are significant legal implications. Possession of alcohol by a minor can lead to:

Arrest: You can be arrested at the time of the purchase or in other cases where police find you in possession of alcohol. Legal Consequences: You may face fines or other legal repercussions, even if you do not consume the alcohol. Parental and Witness Penalties: If someone older tries to purchase alcohol on your behalf, there can be penalties for guardians or witnesses who fail to supervise you properly.

Proper Procedures for Minors

For minors, it is best to have a legally entitled adult buy alcohol for them. This can be done by:

A Breach of Trust: Inform a trusted and legally responsible adult (such as a parent, guardian, or older sibling) to purchase alcohol on their behalf. Avoid Suspicion: Ensure that the person buying the alcohol does not appear to be purchasing it for a minor. This can prevent any potential legal trouble.

In conclusion, when you get carded trying to buy alcohol underage, the best course of action is to be honest and leave the store without the alcohol. Attempting to bluff or bribe the cashier can have serious legal and personal consequences. Always respect the age laws to avoid unnecessary risks and potential legal troubles.