Age Verification Tools (AB Retailers)

NOTE: This article pertains to the regulatory changes that took place in Alberta in March 2022 regarding online sales and delivery.

This policy on age verification enacted by AGLC is no longer in effect.

In other words, the policy WAS required in Alberta according to provincial regulations set by AGLC prior to October 13, 2023.

Hey Alberta, 

As a retailer, there are a variety of ways in which you can age-verify your customers to ensure they’re able to access your online menu. Most retailers are likely going to be verifying customers in-store, in addition to that, we also suggest allowing for customers to age-verify via a video call online. 

The processes and tools you choose to use are completely up to you. However, we do have some recommendations. 

You might want to use a scheduling platform so your customers can easily pick a time that works for them and your team to age-verify. One of the best scheduling software out there is Calendly, with this you can allow customers to book a 5-minute session in your calendar which will automatically send out meeting links for them.  

Scheduling Software

• Calendly (https://calendly.com/) 

While there are many video conferencing tools available we recommend proceeding with a web-based solution. A web-based video solution will ensure your customers don’t need to download any video software to become age verified. 

Here are some of our top picks for Video Meeting Software:

• Google Meet (https://meet.google.com/) 
• Zoom (https://zoom.us/) 

Some other things you may want to consider:

• Will you have one team member dedicated to age-verifying customers? Will you have multiple team members trained and trading off?
   
• If you plan on doing online age verification will you be training your staff on how to handle the video calls and joining scheduled sessions? 
   
• If you plan on allowing scheduled verification video calls will you be available only during store hours? 
   
• How are you going to communicate your age verification processes with customers? You’ll be able to add content to the sign in/up pages in Buddi, we recommend having an idea of how you’ll explain your process to customers.

See this interactive workflow of how age verification works in Buddi, from both points of view (customer + staff).