Required Age Verification

Maine law requires that cannabis retail stores verify that all customers are 21 years of age or older before allowing entry into limited access areas or selling any cannabis or cannabis products.

No exceptions are permitted for any reason, regardless of appearance or circumstances.

Required by: MRS Title 28-B, §504(4)(A)-(B)

1. Verify age before any product discussion. Complete ID checks before allowing entry or describing products.
2. Request acceptable photo identification. Document must be valid (not expired) and show date of birth.
3. Use ID scanner when available. Electronic verification adds security and creates a verification record.
4. Check for authenticity. Confirm security features, photo resemblance, and ensure no alterations.
5. Confirm customer is 21 or older. Calculate age or rely on scanner confirmation—no exceptions.
6. Refuse service to anyone under 21. Direct them to exit the premises immediately.
7. Document every refusal. Record date, time, and reason in store compliance logs.

• Inspect holograms, microprint, and other security features.
• Confirm the photo matches the customer presenting the ID.
• Check tactile features (raised text, embossing) where present.
• Use UV light or scanner tools to confirm embedded security.
• Consult ID reference guides when reviewing unfamiliar IDs.

Failing to verify age is a serious violation:

• Sale to a minor: license suspension, revocation, and fines up to $10,000
• Possible criminal penalties for staff and management
• Employee termination and disqualification from future cannabis employment
• Personal liability for team members who failed to verify age

Remember: Every employee is personally responsible for age verification. “I didn’t know” is not a valid defense.

If you suspect a fake or altered ID:

1. Request a second form of identification.
2. Ask verification questions based on ID details (address, ZIP code, etc.).
3. Consult with a manager immediately.
4. Politely refuse service if any doubts remain.
5. Document the incident in the refusal log, including ID details.

Avoid these frequent compliance errors:

• Assuming age based on appearance or prior visits.
• Accepting expired IDs—even if recently expired.
• Rushing ID checks during busy periods.
• Failing to record refusals in the compliance log.
• Accepting photocopies or digital images of IDs.
• Granting exceptions for friends or regular customers.