What is the purpose of preauthorizing a credit card in a bar?

Preauthorizing a credit card serves a crucial function in the bar environment, particularly in managing customer tabs. The primary purpose of this process is to ensure that there is a sufficient credit limit on the card to cover the expected charges. When a card is preauthorized, the bar temporarily holds an amount (which is often more than the anticipated total) on the card, which verifies that the customer has access to the funds needed to pay their bill. This process protects the establishment from the risk of non-payment and ensures a smoother checkout experience.

It's important to note that preauthorization does not check the customer's credit history; it merely confirms that enough credit is available. Additionally, it does not finalize drink prices, as the total can change based on what the customer orders throughout their visit. While validating the customer's identity could be a component of the overall transaction process, it is not the primary function of preauthorization in the context of ensuring payment for services rendered.