Tennessee Alcohol Laws For Minors, Servers, And Bartenders
Tennessee alcohol laws apply to all residents and visiting individuals. These laws may vary to a degree locally. For instance, in 14 counties in the state, the sale of wines and spirits is prohibited by default. This means that these counties must legislate their own laws to be able to allow the sale of certain liquors.
If you’re looking to open a liquor business, work in an establishment that serves or sells alcohol, or simply want to be in the know regarding Tennessee liquor laws, this article will serve as a basic guide.
What Age Can You Sell, Serve, And Consume Alcohol In Tennessee
Under Tennessee alcohol laws, individuals below the age of 18 cannot by any means serve or sell alcohol. You must be at least 18 years old to be employed as a server or as a bartender.
Regardless of the nature of work, only persons 21 years and above are allowed to purchase and consume alcohol. Using a fake ID to buy alcohol is considered a criminal offense with fines that cost anywhere between $50 to $200.
What Are The Laws On Alcohol Consumption And Driving
Vehicle passengers may consume alcohol without legal repercussions but it is against the law for the driver to do so, although local laws still apply. A driver that produces more than .08% blood alcohol content or BAC on a chemical test will face penalties for driving under the influence (DUI).
The same rule applies to minors caught with a BAC of .02% or more.
Keep in mind that there are no legalities obliging you to submit to a field sobriety test, especially invasive blood tests. Some law officers may falsely claim that it’s required by the law when none exists (also known as implied consent laws). If you feel uncomfortable with it or are confident of your innocence, you may respectfully refuse or repeatedly state your position.
Still, do so at your own risk. Some drivers who use their right to refuse may have their license revoked for a whole year.
Where To Purchase Alcohol In Tennessee
Here’s a quick guide.
Alcohol Type
Where to get
Times
Beer
Grocery stores Convenience stores Gas stations
8 am - 11 pm, Mondays to Saturdays
Beer, wine, distilled spirits
Liquor stores
8 am - 11 pm, Mondays to Saturdays
Most alcoholic beverages
Bars Restaurants
8 am - 3 am, Mondays to Saturdays; 10 am - 3 am, Sundays
Additional Tennessee liquor law information:
Selling alcoholic beverages is prohibited on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter.
Businesses are not allowed to give out free drinks.
Nonprofit, charitable, and political organizations can apply for special occasion licenses which will allow them to sell alcohol within the venue or sell sealed containers of alcoholic beverages for consumption outside the venue.
Is A Bartending License Required In Tennessee?
As is the case in Maryland, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington, among other states, Tennessee requires all personnel who serve and dispense alcohol to obtain a Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) license or server permit. This includes servers, waiters, and bartenders.
Looking to get alcohol certified in Tennessee? Serving Alcohol is an approved provider and has the best support in the industry. Click here for more information.
