Get Your Alcohol Server’s License
Written by Staff Writer
If you’re wondering how to get a permit to serve alcohol , you’ve come to the right place. Obtaining your alcohol server permit helps you responsibly serve alcoholic beverages.
Let us guide you through the benefits of alcohol server training programs, including understanding basic alcoholic beverage control (ABC) laws, local certification requirements and earning your liquor servers license.
Who Needs a Permit?
Liquor laws vary by state. Some states require mandatory training; others do not. The training you require depends on your state, employer and job title. In California, for example, all servers and managers must complete RBS Training and pass an ABC certification exam within 60 days of hire.
Even where formal schooling is not required by state law, being certified reduces risks such as serving minors or intoxicated customers, making it easy for businesses to stay compliant with regulations. Certification can also reduce legal liability. Texas TABC certification isn’t mandatory, for instance, but an employer might require it as part of the hiring process.
A liquor permit or certification may be required for anyone who sells, serves or handles these beverages. This includes:
- Bartenders
- Servers
- Grocery store cashiers
- Managers
- Event volunteers
- Hospitality workers
- Bouncers
- And more
It’s important to remember that requirements and types of permits vary based on local regulations. Check with your employer or local government for more information.
Your permit doesn’t last forever. Although renewal conditions vary, many states require you to renew your credentials every three years. Check with your employer to determine when you’re required to repeat your alcohol server education.
Types of Permits
The type of establishment you work for can also determine the credentials you need to serve liquor. On- and off-premises education refers to where alcoholic beverages are consumed.
On-premises, or on-site, refers to businesses in which alcoholic beverages are consumed where they are sold. Examples include bars, restaurants, clubs or any establishment where patrons can enjoy alcoholic drinks within the designated area. Employees who work in these settings are usually called servers.
Off-premises, or off-site, refers to locations where alcoholic beverages are sold but cannot be consumed on-site. This includes retail shops, liquor stores and similar establishments where customers purchase alcohol to drink elsewhere, such as in their home. Workers at these establishments are known as sellers.
While many jurisdictions combine on- and off-premises permits, your state may have separate educational requirements for sellers and servers. New York ATAP certification, for instance, is available in on-premise and off-premise courses.
Alcohol Training Programs
This classwork teaches employees how to check identification, the consequences of serving underaged patrons, preventing sales to intoxicated persons and more.
In general, liquor seller education will cover the following topics:
- Responsible service practices: Prevent underage sales, identify intoxicated customers and adhere to public safety policies.
- Laws and regulations: Learn local and federal mandates pertaining to selling and serving these beverages, as well as age verification requirements to avoid selling to minors.
- Effects of alcohol: Understand the risks associated with alcohol consumption, such as intoxication, aggression and more.
- Legal consequences: Avoid ramifications for violating the law, including fines and jail time.
- Crisis management: Learn to manage risky or difficult situations. Deescalate confrontations, stop service to belligerent customers, seek emergency assistance and more. These techniques can protect you and your establishment from legal issues.
- Dram shop liability: Know your responsibilities. States with dram shop laws may hold establishments accountable for the actions of intoxicated customers. For example, if you continue to serve someone who is intoxicated and they harm themselves or others in a drunk-driving incident, you and your employer may be held liable for damages.
Seller Server Online is a leading provider of online food and beverage instruction. Our on- and off-premises alcohol training allows you to learn at your own pace while satisfying state-specific requirements. Sign up for online classes today to get started.