Key Takeaways
- Physical signs: slurred speech, unsteady balance, bloodshot eyes, flushed face
- Behavioral signs: lowered inhibitions, loud behavior, mood swings
- Use the ABC method: Appearance, Behavior, Communication
- By the time signs are obvious, customer is likely at 0.08% BAC or higher
- Monitor customers throughout their visit, not just at service time
Last updated: January 2026
3.1 Signs of Intoxication
Recognizing when a customer is becoming intoxicated is crucial for responsible service. You must be able to identify the signs before someone becomes dangerously impaired.
Observable Signs of Intoxication
Physical Signs:
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Slurred speech | Words run together, hard to understand |
| Unsteady balance | Swaying, stumbling, holding onto objects |
| Bloodshot/glassy eyes | Red, watery, unfocused |
| Flushed face | Red cheeks, sweating |
| Drowsiness | Droopy eyelids, difficulty staying awake |
| Loss of coordination | Fumbling, dropping things, spilling drinks |
| Strong odor of alcohol | Noticeable smell on breath or person |
Behavioral Signs:
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Lowered inhibitions | Overly friendly, inappropriate comments |
| Loud or boisterous | Speaking too loudly, drawing attention |
| Aggressive behavior | Argumentative, confrontational |
| Mood swings | Switching between happy and sad/angry |
| Poor judgment | Making bad decisions, oversharing |
| Slowed reactions | Taking long to respond, delayed movements |
| Rambling | Losing train of thought, repeating themselves |
The ABC Method
Use ABC to assess intoxication:
A - Appearance
- Do they look steady or unsteady?
- Are their eyes focused?
- Is their face flushed?
B - Behavior
- Are they acting differently than when they arrived?
- Are they making inappropriate comments?
- Are they having trouble with simple tasks?
C - Communication
- Is their speech clear or slurred?
- Do they understand what you're saying?
- Are they making sense?
Stages of Intoxication
| Stage | BAC | Typical Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Relaxed | 0.02-0.05% | Slight mood changes, relaxation |
| Excited | 0.05-0.08% | Lowered inhibitions, talkativeness |
| Confused | 0.08-0.15% | Slurred speech, impaired balance |
| Stupor | 0.15-0.25% | Severe impairment, may need help walking |
| Coma | 0.25-0.35% | Unconscious, medical emergency |
| Death | 0.35%+ | Potentially fatal |
Critical: By the time you observe obvious signs, the customer is likely already at or above the legal limit (0.08% BAC).
Test Your Knowledge
What does the "B" stand for in the ABC method of assessing intoxication?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is a physical sign of intoxication?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
At what approximate BAC level do most people show obvious signs of intoxication?
A
B
C
D