US Passport valid to enter a bar?

[heyitsme]

What is the name of your state?
California

I didn't really know where to post this. This seemed like the closest match.....

Anyway. Is there an official rule of some kind that states a bar has to accept a US passport as a valid form of id to enter a bar and/or drink??

I only have my US passport and didn't think it would be a problem getting into bars, but recently, every bar I go to has some problem with it. I know it's the most valid form of ID you can get, but they don't seem to know the same thing as me....

A couple have told me they wont accept it because it doesn't have your height, weight, hair color, etc. on a passport like a license does. One even told me that it couldn't be accepted because a US passport isn't valid in the US, only in other countries. People's stupidity never ceases to amaze me.

Any suggestions on what I can say/do to these door guys? Or is it strictly up to each individual bar?

 

[las365]

Your best bet is to obtain a California driver license or state-issued ID card.

I don't know the law on this, but I'd guess that a bar's legitimate interest in not having/serving underage patrons would outweigh any potential claim of discrimination you might allege.

Carl knows California law up & down. He'll probably come along to give you the correct answer to your question.

 

[JETX]

Any suggestions on what I can say/do to these door guys?

Why not just get an official state ID??

Or is it strictly up to each individual bar?

Yep.

 

[heyitsme]

I've already applied for a CA ID, but you know the DMV....I probably won't get it until 2009. Until it comes in the mail, and who knows when that will be, I have to use my passport. It usually isn't a problem, but it seems like with each bar I go to, the more and more problems I get.

 

[Zigner]

You'll have your license/id within 2-4 weeks of applying for it (yes, I know the CA DMV).

A bar doesn't HAVE to let you in if it doesn't want to (so long as not wanting to isn't based on you race, orientation, etc.)

EDIT: Of course, based on your history, you would be better off finding somewhere else to spend your time. Sounds like you should stay away from bars to me...