How to Get a Bartending License – The Ultimate Guide
What You Will Learn
Many new bartenders don’t know the difference between a bartender license, training, certificate, or test. That’s why we created this guide! This will help you find what you’re looking for, along with a handy breakout by the state at the end. We'll answer:
A bartending course will teach you what you need to know to serve alcohol under your state’s rules and regulations responsibly. You can get abartending license online or in person. Anyone who wants to start learning or brush up on their bartending knowledge can do so quickly and at their own pace.
What Is A Bartender License?
If you're searching for a bartender's license, you are probably looking for something to prove you can sell or serve alcohol. In this case, a program that explains the rules and regulations surrounding the sale and service of alcohol. Think of it as a driver's license, for simplicity's sake.
License Types
There are three main types of licenses: delivery, on-premise, and off-premise. Delivery lets you transport and deliver alcohol to a person. On-premise refers to those who sell AND serve alcohol, such as a bartender, server, or manager in a restaurant, bar, tavern, or nightclub. Off-premise refers to those who only sell the alcohol and don't serve it, such as in a liquor store, grocery store, convenience store, party store, or gas station. So, the job you hold may determine which type of license you need. The state you are training for may offer the training as an all-in-one option (like Montana), only make one type of license mandatory (in Georgia, alcohol delivery certification is mandatory while on and off-premise is not), or separate the training depending on if your work on or off-premise (like Illinois Basset).
Bartender Licensing Programs
A state may use a more official term to refer to its licensing program, document received after completion, or both. Specific states have different terms and requirements, so select the right option. For example, in Pennsylvania, you will take the Pennsylvania Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) or RAMP Seller/Server Training. In Illinois, you will take Illinois BASSET certification to receive a BASSET Card.
These course certificates are not transferable from one state to another. A certificate in Pennsylvania doesn't mean you can pour or serve drinks in Wisconsin. Unlike driver's licenses, they do not carry across state borders, and that's an important consideration as some states mandate you be licensed. Remember: the license applies to the state you work in, not the state you live in, so get the appropriate bartender license in the state where you work.
What Is The Alcohol Certification Called?
Bartending License, Permit, Certificate, Certification, and Training: What's the Difference?
The semantics of using a license in place of a permit, certificate, certification, and training may not seem obvious. All you need to know is that a bartending license is the correct generic term. However, we'll provide a more profound explanation if you want to read more.
Bartending License/Mixology License
From the previous definition, a bartending, bartender, or mixology license is a blanket term that refers to a document. In all states where alcohol serving training is regulated by a government agency (i.e., the Wisconsin Department of Revenue), you receive a license.
Bartending Permit/Certificate
A permit is a broad term but usually means you are permitted to do something safety-related. Yes, selling and serving alcohol is safety-related. So, technically, you're receiving a bartending permit. However, since the federal government regulates the sale of alcohol, United States Congress (21st Amendment ratified 12/05/1933), the correct word still circles back to a license.
A "certificate" is a document of evidence given to an individual upon completion. However, only non-regulated and non-government agencies use them. For example, Serving Alcohol can issue you a certificate.
Bartending Certification and Bartender Training
Finally, "certification" and "training" are the acts of becoming certified, resulting in certification. So, bartending certification and bartender training would only apply to taking one of our Serving Alcohol courses.
What Certifications do I need to be a Bartender?
Depending on your state, an alcohol certification or license may or may not be required. We have a list of what states require a certification or license. The difference between the two can be found in this article. Illinois and California require a bartending license due to their state-mandated alcohol training regulations. In Illinois, it's called Illinois BASSET Certification, and in California, it's called California RBS Training Certification. Whereas a certification in Florida would not be considered a license because it is voluntary training. Additional alcohol certifications, such as a mixologist, can be acquired through one of our Behind The Bar Excellence.
Liquor License
The term "liquor license" comes up occasionally when discussing a bartender's license. It's the license issued by the state or local authority for the business to sell or serve alcohol. For example, your local liquor store or grocery store is given a liquor license, which allows them to sell liquor to customers. However, this doesn't limit the business to only selling liquor (varies by state). Sometimes, it's used to describe all alcoholic beverages like liquor, beer, and wine (or a combination). Other times, a state may require you to apply for a beer license, wine license, and liquor license to sell each one.
Why Do You Need A Bartending License?
You need to know and understand the business. The licensing process is more about educating you on selling or serving alcohol (specifically when not to) than mixing drinks. (Check out our Behind The Bar Excellence for that).
Whether or not you work in a state that mandates training for alcohol serving or selling, you should always have a current alcohol seller-server license. The simple reason is that it reduces the likelihood of lawsuit involvement. And it goes beyond being involved in a lawsuit. There is jail time associated with making the wrong decisions in selling or serving alcohol, depending on the violation and the circumstances. Many employers insist you have it. Why? Because it lessens their liability exposure and their insurance cost.
Our courses intend to bring awareness of when you should not sell, serve or continue to serve alcohol and how to maintain a safe environment. Selling alcohol is not the same as having a lemonade stand at twelve years old. Substance Abuse (alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs) is the nation's second-highest threat to Americans. Your responsibility is to make sure alcohol doesn't get into the wrong hands or contribute to a tragic situation that is avoidable.
Below are the critical reasons for completing the certification.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse; it may lessen your chances of getting sued.
In states with non-mandatory licensing, your employer will be more interested in candidates with a seller server license, as it can lessen their liability insurance costs.
Seller server courses cover the 'Do's and Don'ts' when selling and serving alcohol and will give you best practices in reducing conflict and handling individuals under the influence.
Training will teach about the effects of alcohol, rate of intoxication, and signs of intoxication, all vital elements of understanding the impact of alcohol and your customer.
To better understand administrative versus civil versus criminal laws and penalties for violating alcohol laws in your state.
Learn when not to serve, avoiding sales to minors and others where the sale violates the law.
Is Having A Bartenders License Mandatory?
We will always, always strongly recommend you have a bartender license.
Bartending License Mandatory - State/Local
A bartending license becomes mandatory when that state’s legislature passes a law requiring alcohol seller-server licensing. The same may be true at the county or city level when a local government passes an alcohol seller-server ordinance. These laws are passed to protect citizens and the community by reducing the number of drunk drivers and minor adults gaining access to alcohol. For more information on liability, we recommend visiting Dram Shop Laws and Social Host Liability in Each State (NOLO). There are a few exceptions to this rule (shown in parentheses below, which we'll discuss in more detail later in the article):
In many cases, when the state does not require a bartender's license, it will be by the business or insurance carrier. A license has clear benefits, like knowing the rules, regulations, and best practices of selling and serving alcoholic beverages. This will significantly help you protect yourself from liability by teaching you how to safely sell and serve alcoholic beverages to avoid any incidents that could lead to harmful results.
We offer training for every type of alcohol seller and server licensing. Stop by and find your state and the applicable seller server license. We also provide a Responsible Alcohol Manager's course, which is not mandated everywhere but gives you the best management practices when running an establishment that sells or serves alcohol.
Are you trying to get more than one person licensed? We have a Business Account that lets you start now and pay later.
What Topics Are Discussed In Bartending License Training?
State certifications on the sale and service of beer, wine, and liquor are not designed to test or increase your proficiency in mixology. Instead, they focus on:
Explaining the effects of alcohol on the body.
Introducing policy and procedure standards.
Preparing you to check IDs and spot a fake.
Teaching you how to intervene when you need to refuse a sale.
In addition to these requirements, Serving Alcohol focuses on:
Protecting you and the establishment from liability.
How to recognize a minor or someone who is intoxicated.
How to prevent customers from being overly intoxicated (and what to do if it happens).
(And we like to think it's interactive and fun!)
How Long Does It Take To Get A Bartending License?
You should expect to block at least four hours out of your day. While some states leave the training length up to the training provider. Other states require training to be at minimum 2-4 hours, for example:
You should get your license through a reputable provider. With over 35 years of experience teaching alcohol certification principles, our recommended Alcohol Certification Training course offers in-depth knowledge that is easy to follow and understand. Serving Alcohol Inc. goes beyond the basics of alcohol awareness and carding techniques to deliver everything you need to know as an alcohol seller-server in your state.
We offer:
Online interactive and self-paced training
100% Pass Guarantee or get your money back
24/7 USA-based Customer Support
How State Rules And Regulations Can Affect You
The material below contains information from various official state and federal agencies subject to frequent change. Because laws and regulations shift quite frequently, we have tried to include links to relevant data for you to review. A good jumping-off point is from the US Department of Treasury, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Trade Bureau.
Pick your state
Alabama
Controlling agency information: Alcoholic Beverage Control Board - Act that regulates alcohol training
Age to sell and serve: 21 years old for spirits
Who has to train: Employees of an establishment that sells or serves alcoholic beverages
How often to renew: Annually
Key Fact Concerning Alabama: Twenty-four (24) of Alabama’s 67 counties are dry. However, there are 55 wet cities in dry counties. For a full list, please visit the “Wet & Dry Counties” document located at www.nabca.org.
Alaska
Controlling agency information: Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office
Act that regulates alcohol: Alcohol Statute and Regulations
Age to sell and serve alcoholic beverages: 21 years old
Who has to train: In Alaska, licensees and their agents and employees must take an alcohol server training course within 30 days of employment, unless local rules require training before beginning employment. The course must be reviewed and approved by the ABC Board. The board will not approve a course unless it covers 16 specific areas of Alaska law. Courses approved in other states may have the same title but are not the same as the course taught in Alaska
How often do you have to renew: N/A
Arizona
Controlling agency information: Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC)
Act that regulates alcohol: The Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC), authorized by Arizona Revised Statutes Title 4
Age to sell and serve: 18 years of age for an on-sale establishment and 18 years of age for an off-sale establishment that sells primarily spirituous liquor. 16 years of age for an off-sale establishment that sells primarily items other than spirituous liquor. [A.R.S. 4-244(10)(11)]
Who has to train: Training is not mandatory
How often do you have to renew: 3 years
Arkansas
Controlling agency information: Alcoholic Beverage Control
Act that regulates alcohol: Arkansas Code Annotated Laws of the State Control Act
Age to sell and serve: 18 for beer and wine, 21 for spirits
Who has to train: N/A. Training is not mandatory in Arkansas but is highly recommended.
Controlling agency information: California Alcohol Beverage Control
Act that regulates alcohol: In 1955, an amendment to the State Constitution became effective removing the duty of regulating the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages from the State Board of Equalization and placing it in the new Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
Age to sell and serve: Except as provided in subdivision (c), no licensee that sells or serves alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises shall employ any person under 21 years of age to prepare or serve alcoholic beverages. Every person who employs or uses the services of any person under the age of 21 years in or on that portion of any premises, during business hours, which are primarily designed and used for the sale and service of alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Any off-sale licensee who employs or uses the services of any person under the age of 18 years for the sale of alcoholic beverages shall be subject to suspension or revocation of his or her license, except that a person under the age of 18 years may be employed or used for those purposes if that person is under the continuous supervision of a person 21 years of age or older.
Any person between 18 and 21 years of age employed in any bona fide public eating place, as defined in Sections 23038 and 23038.1, which is licensed for the on-sale of alcoholic beverages, may serve alcoholic beverages to consumers only under the following circumstances: such service occurs in an area primarily designed and used for the sale and service of food for consumption on the premises; and the primary duties of the employee shall be the service of meals to guests, with the service of alcoholic beverages being incidental to such duties. For purposes of this subdivision, “serve” or “service” includes the delivery, presentation, opening, or pouring of an alcoholic beverage.
Coming July 1st, 2022
Who has to train: All sellers and servers of alcohol as of July 2022 must take a state-approved course.
How often do you have to renew: Three years from the date of issue
Alcohol Delivery: Delivery of alcohol is allowed, but only the state will be issuing certifications for delivery. Third-party providers of alcohol training will not be allowed to offer certifications.
Controlling agency information: Colorado Department of Revenue, Liquor and Tobacco Enforcement Division
Act that regulates alcohol: Colorado Liquor Rules 1 CCR 203-2
Age to sell and serve: This is pretty involved, so here is the statute controlling age:
The statutory authority for this regulation is located at subsections 44-3-202(1)(b) and 44-3-202(2)(a)(I)(A), C.R.S. The purpose of this regulation is to define permitted and prohibited roles for a liquor licensee’s employees based on the employee’s age.
A. Nothing within this regulation shall authorize a licensee to permit a person under the age of eighteen (18) to sell, dispense, serve, or participate in the sale, dispensing, or service of alcoholic beverages.
B. Except as otherwise provided by this regulation, a licensee shall not permit a person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age but less than twenty-one (21) years of age to sell, dispense, or serve alcohol beverages unless the employee is supervised by another person who is on the licensed premises and is at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
C. Tavern and lodging and entertainment licensees that do not regularly serve meals.
1. Employees or agents of the licensee who are at least twenty-one (21) years of age may handle and otherwise act concerning malt, vinous, and spirituous liquors in the same manner as that person does with other items sold at retail and may sell such alcohol beverages or check identification of the customers of the retail outlet.
D. Retail liquor store and liquor-licensed drugstore licensees.
1. Retail liquor store and liquor-licensed drugstore licensees may permit a person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age to sell, serve, or participate in the sale or service of malt, vinous, and spirituous liquor.
2. Retail liquor store and liquor-licensed drugstore licensees shall not permit a person who is less than twenty-one (21) years of age to deliver malt, vinous, and spirituous liquor under Regulation 47-426, 1 C.C.R. 203-2.
E. Fermented malt beverage licensees.
1. Fermented malt beverage licensees may permit a person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age to sell, serve, or participate in the sale or service of fermented malt beverages. CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 1 CCR 203-2 Liquor Enforcement Division 77
2. Fermented malt beverage licensees for sales for consumption off the licensed premises shall not permit a person who is less than twenty-one (21) years of age to deliver fermented malt beverages under Regulation 47-426, 1 C.C.R. 203-2.
F. Special event permit holders:
1. No person under eighteen (18) years of age may sell, serve, dispense, or handle alcoholic beverages.
2. Malt, vinous, and spirituous liquors special event permittees may permit a person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age but less than twenty-one (21) years of age to sell, serve, dispense, or handle alcoholic beverages when said person is under the direct supervision of a person who is at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
3. Fermented malt beverage special event permittees may permit a person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age to sell, serve, dispense, or handle fermented malt beverages.
G. Wholesalers and manufacturers licensed under article 3, of title 44, C.R.S.
1. Employees or agents of the licensee who are at least twenty-one (21) years of age may handle and otherwise act concerning alcoholic beverages in the same manner as that person does with other items sold at wholesale and may sell and/or deliver such alcoholic beverages to retail outlets.
2. Employees or agents of the licensee who are at least eighteen (18) years of age may handle and otherwise act concerning alcoholic beverages in the same manner as such person would with other items sold at wholesale, as long as they are under the direct supervision of a person who is at least twenty-one (21) years of age. However, persons under the age of twenty-one (21) shall not sell malt, vinous, or spirituous liquors or check the identification of the customers of the permitted sales room.
Who has to train: All sellers of alcoholic beverages. They have 90 days from the date of hire to have completed the training.
How often do you have to renew: Recertification must occur every 3 years.
Connecticut
Controlling agency information: Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection in conjunction with the Liquor Control Division
Act or entity that regulates alcohol: The Liquor Control Commission is a three-member regulatory body within the Department of Consumer Protection. The Commission oversees provisional permits and holds formal administrative hearings and informal hearings (compliance meetings) regarding allegations which include, but are not limited to: suitability of applicants and permit premises; obtaining liquor permits by fraud; sales to minors; sale to intoxicated persons; and unlawful activity occurring on permit premises.
The Commission also acts on matters delegated by the Commissioner, which include but are not limited to review and approval of final liquor permits; substitute permittee applications; patio requests and additional consumer bars; and other matters that come before the Commission for consideration and adjudication.
Controlling agency information: Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement
Act that regulates alcohol: Officers of the Division are primarily tasked with the enforcement of Title 4 - The Liquor Control Act and the Administrative Rules of the Delaware Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner. The Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement is also tasked with checking all establishments that sell tobacco for compliance in regards to youth access to tobacco laws. In July of 1991, Delaware passed House Bill #65 which mandated that all servers must be trained prior to serving alcohol. At that time the Division began to administer The Alcoholic Beverage Server program.
Age to sell and serve: 16 and 17 year olds must have a work permit from the Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner. b) 16 and 17 year olds may only handle alcohol when they clear it from the table. They CAN NOT solicit drink orders. c) 18, 19 and 20 year olds may solicit orders for alcohol and may serve the alcohol but they are NOT PERMITTED to open, mix or pour an alcoholic beverage.
Who has to train: All servers of alcoholic beverages. (The Server Training card must be obtained within 30 days of date of hire).
How often do you have to renew: Certification is good for 4 years. (Commissioner Rule 803, page 13)
Link to relevant dramshop article: Delaware does not currently have Dram Shop but it does have Civil/Tort Statues that may hold the server responsible. Servers must realize that failing to uphold their responsibility to abide by the laws and rules of the State of Delaware may not be just a matter of a criminal court hearing and a fine. It could escalate into a serious civil hearing with the possible repercussions of a judgment with substantial punitive damages.
Florida
Controlling agency information: Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Alcohol Beverages and Tobacco
Controlling agency information: Department of Revenue, Alcohol & Tobacco
Act that regulates alcohol: Title 560 - Georgia Department of Revenue
Local conditions: Georgia does not require a seller-server license but it’s highly recommended.
However, if you deliver alcohol for off-service, meaning you're bringing alcohol to someone, you MUST have completed a Georgia state-certified course such as this one.
Age to sell and serve: 18 years old
Please note some sources indicate there is no minimum age requirement. However, per the Georgia Department of Labor, minors are not allowed to sell alcohol unless it’s for off-sale such as a supermarket or convenience store. The age listed is per state law, but local law can be more restrictive. Check with your local city or county to ensure you are not in violation of their regulations.
Who has to train: Server training is highly recommended for anyone selling or serving alcoholic beverages in the state of Georgia. Some counties have their requirements in the state of Georgia.
How often do you have to renew: N/A
Delivery: Certification is mandatory for the delivery of alcoholic beverages. If you will be delivering alcoholic beverages. This alcohol beverage delivery course is certified by the state of Georgia.
Honolulu: Liquor Commission City and County of Honolulu
Hawaii: Department of Liquor Control County of Hawaii
Kauai: Department of Liquor Control County of Kauai
Maui: Department of Liquor Control
Hawaii has the responsibility of liquor laws at the county and not state level. Please check with your local county regarding laws that regulate the sale and service of alcoholic beverages.
Idaho
Controlling agency information: Idaho State Liquor Dispensary (handles pricing, distribution, selection, and location of packaged liquor stores)
Alcohol Beverage Control Bureau (enforces distilled spirits laws)
Local conditions - City of Boise
Illinois
Controlling agency information: Illinois Liquor Control Commission
Local conditions - City of Chicago
Act that regulates alcohol: Illinois Liquor Control Act of 1934
Age to sell and serve:
At a minimum, the seller/server must be at least 18 years of age. A minor is not allowed to sell/serve alcoholic liquor. Illinois Liquor Control Commission Rules & Regulations (Section 100.10) define a "minor" as a person under 18 years of age (per an Illinois Attorney General opinion in 1973). However, the Illinois Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/6-16, 235 ILCS 5/6-16.2, and ILCS 5/4-1) allows local jurisdictional control over this matter as well as the age allowed to enter a bar/tavern (restaurants that serve alcohol are exempt from this law). In Chicago, for example, you must be 21 to sell/serve alcohol and those under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to enter a bar/tavern. Some other local jurisdictions allow all ages to enter, regardless of whether they are with a parent or legal guardian. Other municipalities have ordinances specifying different ages for the selling, serving, pouring, drawing, and/or opening of alcoholic beverages. You can view various ordinances for most local jurisdictions.
Who has to train: As of July 1, 2018, all on-premise alcohol servers (and those required to check identification for alcohol service) are mandated to take BASSET.
How often do you have to renew: Three years
You must take either an Off-Premise or On-Premise course.
Controlling agency information: Alcohol and Tobacco Commission
Act that regulates alcohol: The Indiana Alcoholic Beverage Commission was created by an Act of the Indiana General Assembly in 1933, following the repeal of Prohibition. Effective July 1, 2001, the name was changed to the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission.
Age to sell and serve: Must be 19 years of age
Who has to train: Indiana state law requires completion of a certified server training program for persons holding an Employee Permit to dispense alcoholic beverages. The certification must be obtained no later than 120 days from the date of hire at an alcohol establishment.
Act that regulates alcohol: Alcoholic Beverage Control, Chapter 123
Ages to Sell, Serve and Deliver: A licensee's employees and agents must be at least:
16 to sell liquor, wine, or beer in original unopened containers for off-premises consumption (grocery stores, convenience stores, liquor stores, etc.).
18 to sell and dispense liquor, wine, or beer for on-premises consumption (restaurants, bars, clubs, etc.).
21 to deliver liquor, wine, or beer in original unopened containers to a home or other designated location for personal use (licensees and permittees authorized to sell liquor, wine, or beer for off-premises consumption).
Note: Age requirements apply to the licensee’s family members as well as non-family employees. If there is a local ordinance governing minors in licensed establishments, the ordinance applies.
Delivery:
Home Delivery
Licensees and permittees authorized to sell alcoholic liquor, wine, beer, or mixed drinks or cocktails for off-premises consumption may deliver alcoholic liquor, wine, or beer to a home.
Licensees and permittees may contract with a third party to deliver the alcoholic beverages provided that the licensee or permittee has entered into a written agreement with the third party that authorizes the third party to act as an agent of the licensee or permittee for the purpose of delivering the alcoholic beverages.
Deliveries of alcoholic liquor, wine, beer, or mixed drinks or cocktails are subject to the following restrictions:
Deliveries shall be limited to alcoholic beverages authorized by the licensee’s or permittee’s license or permit.
Licensees and permittees authorized to sell wine, beer, or mixed drinks or cocktails for consumption off the licensed premises in a container other than the original container may deliver the wine, beer, or mixed drinks or cocktails to a home only if the container other than the original container has been sold and securely sealed in compliance with Iowa Code chapter 123 or the rules of the division.
Payment for the alcoholic beverages shall be received by the licensee or permittee at the time of order.
Orders for delivery may be taken at any time Monday – Saturday and on Sunday as long as the licensee or permittee holds a Sunday Sales privilege.
Alcoholic beverages delivered to a person shall be for personal use and not for resale.
Deliveries shall only be made to persons in this state who are twenty-one years of age or older.
Deliveries shall not be made to a person who is intoxicated or is simulating intoxication.
Deliveries shall occur between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
Deliveries shall be made by the licensee or permittee, or the licensee’s or permittee’s employee, or a third party, provided the licensee or permittee has entered into a written agreement with the third party that authorizes the third party to act as an agent of the licensee or permittee for the purpose of delivering alcoholic beverages. Each licensee or permittee shall submit to the division electronically, or in a manner prescribed by the administrator, a list of names and addresses of all third parties it has authorized to act as its agent for the purpose of delivering alcoholic beverages. The licensee or permittee shall provide the division with amendments to the list as necessary to ensure the division possesses an accurate, current list. The link to the form can be found using the following link: Third-Party Delivery Form
Delivery personnel shall be twenty-one years of age or older.
Valid proof of the recipient’s identity and age shall be obtained at the time of delivery, and the signature of a person twenty-one years of age or older shall be obtained as a condition of delivery.
Licensees and permittees shall maintain records of deliveries which include the quantity delivered, the recipient’s name and address, and the signature of the recipient of the alcoholic beverages. The records shall be maintained on the licensed premises for a period of three years.
A violation of this section or any other provision of this chapter shall subject the licensee or permittee to the penalty provisions of section 123.39. If the licensee or permittee, an employee of the licensee or permittee, or a person delivering alcoholic liquor, wine, beer, or mixed drinks or cocktails for a third party acting on behalf of the licensee or permittee pursuant to a written agreement violates this section, the licensee or permittee shall not be assessed a penalty under section 123.39 if the licensee or permittee establishes all of the following:
The violation was committed off of the licensee’s or permittee’s premises after the liquor, wine, beer, or mixed drinks or cocktails was removed from the licensee’s or permittee’s premises in fulfillment of a delivery order.
If the person who committed the violation is an employee of the licensee or permittee, that no other violation of this section was committed by any employee of the licensee or permittee within the two year period immediately preceding the date of violation.
If the person who committed the violation is a person delivering for a third party acting on behalf of the licensee or permittee, that no other violation of this section was committed by any person delivering for the same third party while the third party was acting on behalf of the licensee or permittee within the two year period immediately preceding the date of violation.
Who has to train: Recommended that all employees who sell or serve alcoholic beverages receive training. It is not mandatory.
Controlling agency information: Kansas Department of Revenue Alcohol Beverage Control
Act that regulates alcohol: In 1948, Kansas voters amended the state constitution and the 1949 Legislature enacted the Kansas Liquor Control Act, which provided for the regulation of all phases of manufacture, distribution, sale, possession, and traffic of alcoholic liquor and manufacture of beer, except 3.2 percent and less. In 1972, the Legislature converted the Office of the Director of Alcoholic Beverage Control from an independent agency to a division within the Department of Revenue.
The Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control oversees licensing, regulatory, legal, and enforcement of the distribution and sale of alcoholic beverages. Anyone and all organizations involved in the sale of alcoholic beverages, including retailers, suppliers, distributors, drinking establishments, farm wineries, microbreweries, manufacturers, caterers, special order shipping, temporary permit holders, and private clubs, must obtain licenses or permits. It also enforces all applicable liquor laws.
Age to sell and serve:
Bring drinks to tables: 18 years of age
To mix, open or pour alcoholic beverages: 21 years of age
To work in a retail liquor store: 21 years of age
Who has to train: Training is highly recommended, but not mandatory.
Controlling agency information: Kentucky Alcoholic Beverage Control Department
Age to sell and serve: A person must be at least twenty (20) years old to sell, serve, or accept payment for distilled spirits, wine, or malt beverages. KRS 244.090.
Who has to train: Training is highly recommended, but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
Controlling agency information: Louisiana Department of Revenue Alcohol and Tobacco Control Office
Act that regulates alcohol: TITLE 26 LIQUORS-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE
Age to sell and serve: The minimum age to prepare, sell, or serve alcoholic beverages in a bar or restaurant is 18 years.
Persons under the age of 18 years are allowed to sell or serve alcoholic beverages, under immediate supervision, in a package store (where the sale or handling of alcoholic beverages does not constitute the main business). However, the employer must fill out an “Application to Employ Minors Under 18” form and return it to the Louisiana Workforce Commission.
Who has to train:
Any employee of an alcoholic beverage or tobacco dealer who is authorized to sell or serve alcoholic beverages or tobacco products or who deals with customers who purchase or consume alcoholic beverages or tobacco products must obtain a responsible vendor permit within 45 days of employment.
How often do you have to renew:
Responsible vendor permits expire every 4 years on the last day of the month in which you took the responsible vendor course
Maine
Controlling agency information:
Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations
Maryland
Controlling agency information:
Maryland Field Enforcement Division
Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services
MD – Worcester County Liquor Control Board
Massachusetts
Controlling agency information: Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission
Act that regulates alcohol: Chapter 138 Alcoholic Liquors
Age to sell and serve: 18 years of age
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
How often do you have to renew: The Massachusetts certification is valid for 3 years.
Controlling agency information: Michigan Liquor Control Commission
Who has to train: Managers, at a minimum (At a minimum, server-trained supervisory personnel must be employed during all hours alcoholic beverages are served as outlined in MCL 436.1501(1).
Act that regulates alcohol: Michigan Liquor Control Code of 1998 Act 58
Controlling agency information: Minnesota Department of Public Safety Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division
Act that regulates alcohol: Minnesota Liquor Control Act
Age to sell and serve: Minimum age to sell or serve alcoholic beverages is 18
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages. (Some cities may require training, check your local ordinances).
How often do you have to renew: N/A
Minnesota Statutes section 340A.801 sets out the state's liability laws.
Controlling agency information: Alcoholic Beverage Control Office
Act that regulates alcohol: State law requires that localities opt in for the sale of alcoholic beverages and never ratify the 21st amendment and is a dry state by default. Mississippi has several wet and dry counties because of this approach. Know your county’s regulations. This is a link to the state’s information on wet and dry county locations.
Age to sell and serve: 18 for beer-only licensed premises, anyone who is legally employed may sell or otherwise handle beer, regardless of age. The minor employee is prohibited from consuming, purchasing, or otherwise personally coming into possession of beer.
For ABC or alcohol-licensed premises, employment to persons under 21 is generally prohibited. However, someone at least 18 years of age may wait tables, take orders and deliver alcohol products to the table IF that is in the normal scope of his/her employment. This exception does not allow someone to serve as a bartender or manager of the premises.
At an ABC-licensed premises, someone under 21 years of age may unload sealed cartons, boxes or similar shipping packages of alcohol products provided the package remains sealed at all times. Someone under 21 years of age may work as an entertainer at ABC licensed premises.
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
Controlling agency information: Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control
Act that regulates alcohol: Title XX
Age to sell and serve: Persons 18 years of age or older may sell or handle intoxicating liquor, when. 1. Except as provided in this section, no person under the age of 21 years shall sell or assist in the sale or dispensing of intoxicating liquor. 2. In any place of business licensed in accordance with section 311.200, persons at least 18 years of age may stock, arrange displays, operate the cash register or scanner connected to a cash register and accept payment for, and sack for carryout, intoxicating liquor. Delivery of intoxicating liquor away from the licensed business premises cannot be performed by anyone under the age of 21 years. Any licensee who employs any person under the age of 21 years, as authorized by this subsection, shall, when at least 50% of the licensee's gross sales does not consist of nonalcoholic sales, have an employee 21 years of age or older on the licensed premises during all hours of operation.
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
How often do you have to renew: N/A
Montana
Controlling agency information: Montana Alcoholic Beverage Control Division
Act that regulates alcohol: Title XVI
Age to sell and serve: Minimum of 18 years of age
Who has to train: All licensees will be required, as of January 1, 2012, to ensure that all persons who serve or sell alcoholic beverages, their immediate supervisors, and all licensees or owners of licensees who personally serve or sell alcoholic beverages on behalf of the licensee, have completed a responsible alcohol sales and service training class.
(2) Individuals trained within the three-year time period prior to January 1, 2012, by any training provider, will be in compliance with the training requirement provided that the individual has valid proof of training within that period. Such individuals must be retrained within three years from their date of training.
(3) On or after January 1, 2012, employees who do not have current valid proof of training must obtain training from a training provider preapproved by the department. Any training received from a nonapproved training provider does not satisfy the server training requirements of Title 16, ch. 4, part 10, MCA, or these rules.
(4) Employees must receive training within 60 days of hire and every three years thereafter. Licensees or owners of licenses must receive training within 60 days of department approval of their ownership interest if they personally serve alcoholic beverages, or 60 days of when they begin personally serving alcoholic beverages, and every three years thereafter.
(5) Licensees shall maintain proof of training for each employee. If, as a result of a routine check for compliance with 16-3-301, 16-6-304, or 16-6-305, MCA, and 16-4-1005, MCA, the department believes the licensee may be out of compliance, the department may make an examination of the licensee's training or employee records. After reviewing the records, if the department has reasonable cause to believe the licensee is not in compliance with Title 15, ch. 4, part 10, MCA, the department will impose a penalty as provided by law.
(6) Title 16, ch. 4, part 10, MCA, is silent as to whether the licensee or the employee is responsible for the cost of the training. This is to be determined by agreement between the licensee and employee.
Controlling agency information: Nebraska Liquor Control Commission
Act that regulates alcohol: Nebraska Liquor Control Act
Age to sell and serve: Minimum age is 19
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not required by the state, certain cities do require seller server training. Check with your local municipality.
How often do you have to renew: 3 years is the maximum length of time
Controlling agency information: Nevada Department of Taxation
Act that regulates alcohol: Chapter 369 - Intoxicating Liquor
Age to sell and serve: 21. Unless it’s a retail food store, then 16.
Who has to train: Not mandatory at the state level, but can be mandatory at the local level. Please check with your local city and county to see if the training is required.
How often do you have to renew: Controlled at the local level.
New Hampshire
Controlling agency information: New Hampshire State Liquor Commission
Act that regulates alcohol: Title XXXIII
Age to sell and serve:
How old must an employee be to sell alcohol? To act as a cashier in a selling capacity the employee shall be 16 years old.
How old must an employee be to serve alcohol? In order to serve or handle alcohol as a waiter, waitress, or bartender the employee shall be 18 years old.
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
How often you have to renew: N/A
New Jersey
Controlling agency information: New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Act that regulates alcohol: New Jersey Alcoholic Beverage Act Title 33
Age to sell and serve:
HOW OLD TO OWN A LICENSE? The lawful age to own a license and to purchase alcoholic beverage products for resale under a license privilege is 18 years of age. (N.J.S.A. 9:17B-1.) HOW OLD TO BE EMPLOYED BY A LICENSEE? For all on-premise consumption licenses, no person under 18 years of age may be employed to work on the licensed premises (this includes entertainers, etc.) except you may employ someone 16 years of age or older as: (1) a pin setter or lane attendant at a public bowling alley or (2) a busboy (or someone who does not prepare, sell or serve alcoholic beverages) in a restaurant, bowling alley, hotel, motel or guest house. 3 Any on-premise consumption licensee may employ any person 14 years of age or older who will be exclusively used to perform duties as a golf caddy and/or pool attendant. For all off-premise consumption licensees, no person under 18 years of age may be employed to work on the licensed premises except you may employ someone 15 years of age or older to act as a stock clerk or in a similar position that does not involve the sale of alcoholic beverages to customers. Alcoholic Beverage Control Regulations require all retail licensees, except those operating in conjunction with a bona fide hotel or public restaurant, to obtain an Employment Permit from the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control for any employee who is less than 18 years of age. Such permit must be obtained no later than 10 days from the commencement of employment. The Alcoholic Beverage Control will issue a Blanket Permit to licensees that will cover the employment of more than one person under the age of 18. Inquiries should be made to the Divisions Licensing Bureau.
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
Controlling agency information: New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department
Act that regulates alcohol: New Mexico Liquor Control Act
Age to sell and serve:
Only individuals over 21 years of age may sell or serve alcohol in bars, lounges convenience, grocery, and package stores.
18 to 20-year-olds may obtain a permit to sell or serve alcohol in a full-service restaurant with meals, but may not be a bartender.
Who has to train:
Anyone who serves and sells alcoholic beverages and packaged liquor.
This includes owners and leaseholders of alcohol licenses; owners of beer and wine licenses; bartenders, bouncers, waiters, waitresses, convenience and grocery store clerks; and resident agents.
How often do you have to renew: The permits are valid for 3 years from the date of the class and must be renewed before expiration.
New York
Controlling agency information: New York State Liquor Authority Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Act that regulates alcohol: Alcohol Beverage Control Law (Chapter 478)
Age to sell and serve: Minimum age to sell alcoholic beverages is 18
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
Controlling agency information: North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission
Act that regulates alcohol: Alcohol Beverage Control Act of 1937
Age to sell and serve:
An establishment holding mixed beverage, brown bagging, or special occasion permits must have an employee at least 21 years of age in charge of the licensed premises at all times. Bartenders must be 21 years of age to mix drinks containing spirits. Waiters and waitresses in on-premise establishments who serve or sell alcoholic beverages must be 18 years of age. Minors 16 and 17 may be employed if they do not prepare, sell, serve, or deliver alcoholic beverages at on-premise establishments. Malt beverage, fortified, and unfortified wine permittees shall have an employee who is 18 years of age in charge. Minors may work at off-premise establishments (beer and/or wine) in any capacity, subject to the rules set by the North Carolina Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division.
Who has to train: Required for business owners. If you have the permit to operate the business to sell or serve alcohol, then training is required.
How often do you have to renew: 3 years
North Dakota
Controlling agency information: North Dakota Office of the State Tax Commissioner
Act that regulates alcohol: Title 5
Age to sell and serve: In North Dakota, the minimum legal age to serve alcohol is 21, except in restaurants where 18 to 20-year-olds may serve and collect money for alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, or spirits) if under the direct supervision of an individual (manager or supervisor) who is of legal drinking age (N.D.C.C. § 5-02-06, 2013).
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
Controlling agency information: Ohio Department of Commerce - Division Of Liquor Control
Act that regulates alcohol: State Liquor Control Act: Chapter 4301 Liquor Control Law
Age to sell and serve: You must be at least 19 years old to legally serve alcohol for on-site consumption but if the alcohol in question is wine or spirits, then you will need to be at least 21 years old.
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not mandatory for anyone who sells or serves alcoholic beverages.
Controlling agency information: Alcoholic Beverage Law Enforcement Commission (ABLE)
Oregon
Controlling agency information: Oregon Liquor Control Commission
Act that regulates alcohol: Oregon State Liquor Control Act (ORS 471.030)
Age to sell and serve: Minimum age of 18
Who has to train: Service permits are required for servers (i.e., wait staff or bartenders) who work for a business that allows customers to drink alcohol on the premises; managers who directly supervise servers who mix, serve, or sell alcohol to customers for drinking on their premises; owners who mix, serve, or sell alcohol, or manage services at that business; and any person who fills growlers.
How often do you have to renew: 5 years
Pennslyvania
Controlling Agency Information: Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board
Age to sell and serve: Generally, to be employed as a bartender or to serve or dispense alcohol in a licensed retail establishment, a person must be at least 18 years of age. 47 P.S. § 4- 493(13). 16 and 17 year-olds may be employed on retail licensed premises to serve food, clear tables, and perform other similar duties–including the carrying of empty or partially full alcoholic beverages remaining on the table being cleared. They are not permitted to dispense or serve alcoholic beverages. Minors under 16 years of age cannot be employed on retail licensed premises, except under a narrow exception involving licenses located at ski resorts, golf courses, amusement parks, and continuing care facilities. Id. Be advised that there is a provision in the PLCB’s Regulations that a 17 year-old minor can be treated as though he or she is 18 years old for purposes of employment if he or she is a high school graduate, or if he or she has been declared to have attained his or her academic potential by the chief administrator of the school district where the minor resides. 40 Pa. Code § 5.14. In that case, the licensee must have in its possession on the licensed premises, to be produced on demand, a certified copy of the diploma or certificate of graduation or a letter on the official stationery of the minor’s school district and over the signature of the chief administrator of the school district, declaring that the minor has attained his or her academic potential. Id. Since employment of minors is primarily regulated by the state’s Department of Labor and Industry, you may wish to contact that agency as well at (717) 787-5279.
Who has to train: RAMP Server/Seller Training of 50% of the staff members of a licensee in the state of Pennsylvania to maintain PLCB certification.
Controlling agency information: Division of Commercial Licensing and Regulation Liquor Enforcement and Compliance - Rhode Island Agencies List
Act that regulates alcohol: Rhode Island Title 3
Age to sell and serve: 18 years of age or older
Who has to train: Required of those who serve alcoholic beverages
How often do you have to renew: Every three years
South Carolina
Controlling agency information: South Carolina Department of Revenue & Taxation
Act that regulates alcohol: The Alcoholic Beverage Control Act Title 61
Age to sell and serve: To work as a bartender in any facility that sells open containers of beer or wine, a person must be at least 21 years of age. To work as a server, waiter, or waitress and serve open containers of beer or wine a person must be at least 18 years of age.
Who has to train: Not required but highly recommended
Act that regulates alcohol: Tennessee Code Title 57
Age to sell and serve: Minimum of 18 years of age
Who has to train: A Server Permit (On-Premise Permit) is required to serve liquor, wine, and high-gravity beer at an establishment that holds an On-Premise Consumption License (Liquor-by-the-Drink License).
Controlling agency information: Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Act that regulates alcohol: The Utah Alcoholic Beverage Control Act Title 32B
Age to sell and serve: 21 years of age or older
Who has to train: Every individual who is employed to sell or furnish alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises, and those who manage or supervise the service of alcoholic beverages must:
Complete and pass an approved Utah alcohol server training every 3 years.
Complete the training within 30 days of beginning employment.
How often do you have to renew: Every 3 years
Vermont
Controlling agency information: Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery
Act that regulates alcohol: Vermont Division of Liquor Control
Age to sell and serve: Minimum age of 18 years of age
Who has to train: All sellers and servers of alcohol and tobacco must be trained before they start working and then must be re-trained every 2 years thereafter.
How often do you have to renew: Every 2 years
Virginia
Controlling agency information: Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority
Act that regulates alcohol: Title 4.1 Alcoholic Beverage Control Act
Age to sell and serve: No person licensed to sell alcoholic beverages at retail shall permit any employee under the age of 18 years to sell, serve or dispense in any manner any alcoholic beverage in his licensed establishment for on-premises consumption, nor shall such person permit any employee under the age of 21 years to prepare or mix alcoholic beverages in the capacity of a bartender. "Bartender" is defined as a person who sells, serves or dispenses alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption at a counter, as defined in 3VAC5-50-110, and does not include a person employed to serve food and drink to patrons at tables as defined in that section. However, a person who is 18 years of age or older may sell or serve beer for on-premises consumption at a counter in an establishment that sells beer only, or may sell or serve wine for on-premises consumption in an establishment that sells wine only.
Who has to train: Not required, but highly recommended
How often do you have to renew: N/A
Washington
Controlling agency information: Washington Business License Services - Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
Act that regulates alcohol: The Steele Liquor Act
Age to sell and serve: Employees 18, 19, and 20 years old may sell, stock, and handle alcohol on retail premises, as long as there is a supervisor 21 or older on store premises. WAC 314-11-040 There must be at least one 21 or older employee on-site at a Grocery Store (selling beer and wine) and at least two employees 21 or older on-site at a Spirits Retailer.
If in a bartending capacity, then the minimum age is 21.
Is training mandatory: MAST is required by law for persons who serve, mix, sell, or supervise the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption and for those conducting alcohol tasting in authorized locations. For further detail regarding MAST requirements, please see Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 314-17
How often do you have to renew: 5 years
West Virginia
Controlling agency information: West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration
Act that regulates alcohol: West Virginia Liquor Control and Nonitoxicating Beer Act
Age to sell and serve: Minimum age of eighteen years of age
Who has to train: Highly recommended but not required
A knowledgeable, certified staff is the essential element to protecting your business. Besides those required by your state and liability insurance carrier, responsible alcohol business practices will enhance your business and profits. Our alcohol certification courses keep you, your employees, and your community safer. Our Business Account is only available to alcohol selling or serving businesses.
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Bartending License Conclusion
A bartending license or bartender license is a blanket term that refers to a document. Upon completing either a state-certified program or a program, this document is given to an individual. In this case, a program that fulfills an explanation of the rules and regulations surrounding the sale and service of alcohol. You should get a bartender license to become knowledgeable and protect yourself and the business.
Some states and insurance providers make it a requirement before selling and serving alcohol. However, all staff who sell, serve, and deliver alcohol receive training should attend training regardless. It typically takes 2-4 hours and costs $10-20.
Serving Alcohol's training explains rules and regulations surrounding the sale and service of alcohol, illustrates the effects of alcohol on the body, introduces policy and procedure standards, prepares you to check IDs and spot a fake, and teaches you how to intervene when you need to refuse a sale. You can enroll online now by finding your state. If you want to manage multiple licensed bartenders simultaneously, you can use our Business Accounts to help.
