How do I effectively check a recipient’s ID?

  • Updated

There are a number of items Sherpa delivers that require our drivers to check the recipient's identification (ID). These include but are not limited to:

  • Alcohol
  • Tobacco products
  • Specified recipient delivery
  • Age-restricted items (knives, spray paint etc)


The rule when checking a recipients ID is to check for anyone who looks under the age of 25. It's not easy gauging a person's age just by how they look or how they act, but don't worry - we have you covered!


Effectively checking an ID involves checking:

  • Their name matches that on the order (unless specified on the order that someone else can collect on their behalf)
  • They are over the age of 18
  • There are no signs of tampering with the ID (checking for a fraudulent identification or amending the date of birth on a valid ID)



We have listed a few things to remember so that you can have peace of mind before handing off your delivery to a person.

  1. When you arrive at a drop-off, STOP at the door first, don't ring the bell or knock on the door immediately. Look at your application and look for details of the person that's supposed to receive the delivery.

  2. Check for any special instructions on the delivery instructions, and REMEMBER the alcohol guidelines so that you're ready when someone gets to the door when you ring or knock.

  3. When they do greet you. LOOK first at their face (but don't stare). If they look like they could be 25 years of age or younger, you MUST ask for ID.

  4. Don't ask for the recipient right away or ask the person if their name is the intended recipient's. Instead, you can say "Hi, I'm from Sherpa. I have a delivery to this address, Can I have your name please?". By saying so, you're setting them for the all important question. If you know their name, it will be much easier for you to say "Alright John, can I see some identification before I hand this/these off to you?". In a way, you're conditioning the person to comply.

  5. Don't forget to check for signs of intoxication! We cannot continue delivery under any circumstances when the person looks to be intoxicated. Do not engage the person in further conversation but politely say that you cannot continue with delivery, and book a return through the app. You can read more about this process here
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