Minors as Agents Program
Last updated on April 26, 2024Under the Minors As Agents Program (MAP), minors employed by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) are allowed to purchase liquor or cannabis from licensed private retail stores, government-operated retail stores, and other licensed establishments to help LCRB inspectors monitor that licensees are checking identification (ID).
These purchases by minors are authorized only during inspections and are allowed under liquor and cannabis legislation.
In B.C., checking ID for age-verification is a fundamental pillar of responsible service training and liquor and cannabis legislation. The MAP is an evidence-based program, which has proven to increase compliance for age-verified sales among licensees.
On this page:
- How Minor Agent inspections work
- Enforcement action
- If you suspect someone is selling liquor or cannabis to a minor
How Minor Agent inspections work
Minor Agents work under the close supervision of inspectors and are trained to answer all questions honestly and not to misrepresent themselves in any way during the inspection. Minor Agents are also trained not to persuade the licensee to sell them liquor or cannabis.
Minor Agents are always supervised by at least two inspectors.
Map inspections take place at establishments, including:
- Licensed private liquor or cannabis retail stores
- Government-operated liquor or cannabis stores
- Food primary establishments (restaurants)
- Liquor primary establishments (bars and pubs)
- Manufacturers (wineries, distilleries and breweries)
- Special event permits (one-time events)
- Catering when hosting an event under your licence
- UBrew or UVin establishments
Legislation
Only during MAP inspections under the supervision of an inspector, Minor Agents with a current contract are allowed to purchase liquor or cannabis under:
- Section 78(4) of the Liquor Control and Licensing Act
- Section 76(1) of the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act
Checking identification (ID)
In B.C. it is against the law to sell, serve or supply liquor or cannabis to a minor (someone under the age of 19). If asked, customers must show valid identification (ID) to purchase liquor or cannabis.
Licensees may set their own policies for checking ID. For example, some licensees check everyone’s ID, while others only check those who look under 30. However, if there is any doubt the customer is of legal age, licensees must take reasonable steps to verify age by checking ID. Licensees must refuse service if they believe that a customer is a minor or attempting to purchase liquor or cannabis for a minor. Learn more about preventing contraventions.
Enforcement action
LCRB inspectors regularly educate licensees through inspections. Inspections may happen with or without notice.
If an LCRB inspector determines that enforcement action is necessary, in some cases, licensees are given a choice between paying a fine or having a licence or authorization suspension issued. Read more about enforcement action.
Penalty schedule
Monetary-penalty or a suspensions are outlined in the following:
If you suspect someone is selling liquor or cannabis to a minor
Selling liquor or cannabis to a minor is a serious contravention. If you suspect minors are gaining access to liquor or cannabis, you can submit a complaint to the LCRB.
Minor Agents work under a contract with the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch. Learn more about what you need and how to apply to become a Minor Agent.