The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission Announces New Acceptable Form of Identification

U.S. Passport Cards can now be used as proof of age

May 15, 2009 – The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) which is overseen by State Treasurer Tim Cahill would like to announce that all licensed pouring establishments and package stores may now accept U.S. Passport Cards as acceptable forms of identification.

Recently the United States Department of State announced that it has authorized the issuance of these Passport Cards, which carry the same rights and privileges of the U.S. Passport Book.

In order to purchase or consume alcohol a person must be 21 years of age and have the proper documentation to prove their age. In addition to the new Passport Cards other forms of identification include:

(1) A valid Massachusetts driver license,

(2) A valid Massachusetts Liquor Identification card,

(3) A valid Passport issued by the United States government, or by the government, recognized by the United States government, of a foreign country,

(4) A valid United States issued active duty Military Identification Card.

The Passport Cards are wallet-size and can only be used for land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. According to the United States Department of State the Passport Card will provide a less expensive, smaller, and more convenient alternative to the Passport Book for those who travel frequently to these destinations by land or by sea.

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