Servers must verify the age of customers when?

Answer: B — When the customer orders alcohol

Verifying the age of customers when they order alcohol is crucial for several reasons. The law mandates that servers must ensure that they do not serve alcoholic beverages to individuals who are under the legal drinking age of 21 in Oregon. This responsibility is a key part of the server’s role to prevent underage drinking and to comply with legal regulations set forth by the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission. When a customer orders alcohol, it is the most appropriate moment for the server to check identification, as it directly relates to the transaction being initiated. This proactive measure allows the server to confirm the customer’s age before any alcohol is served or consumed, thereby protecting both the establishment and the customer. In contrast, simply judging someone's age based on appearance does not fulfill legal requirements, as looks can be subjective and misleading. Verifying age after payment would allow for the possibility of serving alcohol to an underage individual, which is not acceptable. Lastly, checking identification only for first-time customers would fail to ensure ongoing compliance with age verification laws for all patrons, regardless of their previous visits. Thus, verifying age at the point of alcohol ordering is the safest and most legally sound practice.