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Age Compliance

The Pennsylvania State Police have been granted authority to work with Underage Buyer volunteers between the ages of 18-20 to purchase alcoholic beverages in a controlled environment. This program was implemented in Pennsylvania starting in January 2005. Underage Buyers, interns from the various colleges/universities throughout Pennsylvania, work in conjunction with Liquor Enforcement Officers to enter liquor-licensed establishments and attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages. If the establishment serves the Underage Buyer, a Liquor Enforcement Officer immediately notifies them about the Age Compliance Check and administrative action is taken.

Once an individual is accepted as an Underage Buyer, they must receive training and pass a test. Underage Buyers are supervised and within sight of Bureau officers at all times. This is not a paid position, but the experience gained through this opportunity is valuable.  The experience that an individual in this position will gain is in the following areas:

  • Preparation of investigations
  • Coordination of a law enforcement detail
  • Undercover investigations
  • Report writing
  • Evidence collection
  • Court preparation
  • Testifying in court

Underage Buyers will have an opportunity to work with Liquor Enforcement Officers assigned to the District Office where they reside or attend school.  Each detail that an Underage Buyer participates in can last from four to eight hours.  Bureau officers will work with Underage Buyers to schedule details that fit their schedule.

If interested in applying for the position of Underage Buyer, complete the Application for Age Compliance Check Program and the Agreement of Conditions and Participation and Liability Release, and mail them to:

Pennsylvania State Police
Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement
3655 Vartan way
Harrisburg, PA 17110

Applicants may attach documents via email to ra-splce_age@pa.gov.