Adult Signature

Adult signature is a premium delivery service that requires someone 21 years of age or older to sign for a package and present valid government-issued ID. This service is legally mandated for certain products and provides the highest level of delivery security.

How Adult Signature Works

At Delivery

1. Driver arrives with package
2. Requests recipient’s signature
3. Asks for government-issued ID
4. Verifies name and age (21+)
5. Records ID information
6. Releases package

Acceptable ID

• Driver’s license
• State ID card
• Passport
• Military ID

If Requirements Not Met

• Package not delivered
• Delivery attempt recorded
• Notice left with instructions
• Redelivery or pickup required

Adult Signature Costs

When Adult Signature Is Required

Legally Required

• Alcohol - Wine, beer, spirits
• Tobacco - Cigarettes, cigars, vaping
• Cannabis - Where legal, typically requires AS
• Firearms - Guns and ammunition
• Certain medications - Controlled substances

Commonly Required

• Age-restricted products
• High-value luxury items
• Sensitive documents
• As shipper preference

Adult Signature vs. Other Signatures

Shipping Products Requiring Adult Signature

Alcohol (Wine, Spirits)

• Required in all states
• Cannot leave unattended
• Cannot deliver to minors
• Carrier policy and law

Tobacco & Vaping

• PACT Act requirements
• Age verification mandatory
• Shipping restrictions vary by state
• Some carriers don’t ship tobacco

Cannabis (Where Legal)

• State-specific requirements
• Often stricter than alcohol
• Licensed carriers only
• Local delivery may differ

Challenges with Adult Signature

For Recipients

• Must be home during delivery
• Must have valid ID available
• Can’t leave with neighbor
• Multiple attempts may be needed

For Shippers

• Higher delivery failure rate
• More expensive service
• Customer inconvenience
• Potential returns/refusals

Solutions for Adult Signature Delivery

Recipient Options

1. Schedule specific delivery time - Know when to be home
2. Redirect to pickup location - Pick up at facility
3. Ship to workplace - If policy allows
4. Use delivery window services - Narrow the timing

Shipper Options

1. Clear communication - Explain AS requirement
2. Allow pickup alternatives - Offer facility pickup
3. Time-window delivery - Premium service
4. Local delivery partners - More flexibility

Failed Adult Signature Delivery

What Happens

• Driver attempts delivery
• No eligible adult available
• InfoNotice/door tag left
• Package returns to facility

Resolution Options

• Schedule redelivery
• Pick up at carrier location
• Authorize another adult at address
• Redirect to different address (limited)

After Multiple Attempts

• Typically 3 attempts
• Package held at facility
• Time limit to pick up (5-10 days)
• Returns to sender if unclaimed

Compliance and Legal

Shipper Responsibilities

• Verify buyer age at purchase
• Select adult signature service
• Comply with state laws
• Keep records of verification

Carrier Responsibilities

• Check ID at delivery
• Refuse delivery to minors
• Document all attempts
• Train drivers on requirements