Wisconsin
Bartending License
- WI DOR Approved Since 2007
- Self-Paced, Engaging Online Training
- Covers Both On & Off-Premise Service Requirements
- Get Your Wisconsin Bartending License Fast & Easily
Get Your Wisconsin Bartending License Online – State-Approved Training
A Wisconsin bartending license, also known as an operator’s permit, is a legal requirement for anyone who serves alcohol in Wisconsin, whether as a bartender, server, manager, or store clerk. To obtain your Wisconsin bartending license, you must complete an approved responsible beverage server training course meeting Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) requirements.
At Serving Alcohol, we’re proud to be a state-approved provider trusted by Wisconsin bars, restaurants, and hospitality professionals since 2007. Our online Wisconsin bartending license course is designed to meet all Wisconsin DOR requirements (under statutes 125.04, 125.17, and 134.66). It’s fully compliant, convenient, and fast, so you can get licensed and start working immediately.
Enroll Today and get certified quickly, conveniently, and affordably. Start your Wisconsin bartending license journey now!
For more details about Wisconsin’s alcohol laws and the licensing process, check out our Frequently Asked Questions About the Wisconsin Bartending License or our comprehensive guide: How to Get Your Wisconsin Bartending License.
Roger B. Johnson
Former Wisconsin Department of Revenue – Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement Officer
“I have worked for Wisconsin’s Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement Division for nearly 40 years. From its onset, I was involved in developing Wisconsin’s Responsible Alcohol Server Training and reviewing many similar programs.
These programs help ensure servers and sellers of alcoholic beverages do so responsibly.
The Serving Alcohol Inc. program stands out as ‘the gold standard.’ Its staff ensures its program keeps current with the ever-changing alcohol laws. Serving Alcohol’s staff can readily assist with customer questions and guidance. It provides its students with the necessary knowledge to ensure compliance with state alcohol laws, particularly with adherence to safety and guidance to industry staff, customers, and the general public.”
Why Choose Our Wisconsin Bartending License Course?
- Fully approved by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR).
- Covers on-premise and off-premise alcohol service as required by state law.
- Mobile-friendly and accessible from any device.
- Fast completion—most finish in just a few hours.
- Download your Wisconsin Alcohol Seller Server Certificate immediately upon passing.
- Trusted by employers and city clerks statewide.
On-Premise or Off-Premise
Our On-Premise Certificate is required if you are a Wisconsin bartender, server, or manager in a bar, nightclub, restaurant, or event.
Our Off-Premise Certificate is required if you only sell alcohol as a liquor, convenience, or grocery store clerk.
Our course will cover you for both on-premise and off-premise situations.
Wisconsin alcohol delivery laws require certification for drivers who deliver alcohol as a DoorDash, Uber, or Grubhub driver.
Immediately after completing the course, you can download your Wisconsin seller server certificate today. You can also download it here: Certificate Search
Who Needs a Wisconsin Bartending License?
- Bartenders
- Servers and Waitstaff
- Barbacks
- Door Security Guard
- Bar Supervisors
- Bar Managers
- Bar Owners
- Nightclub Bartenders & Managers
- Any Person Who Serves Alcohol
Do You Need a Bartender License in Wisconsin?
Yes. All alcohol servers must acquire an ‘Operator’s License,’ often called a Wisconsin bartending license or Wisconsin Responsible Beverage Server Training Course. It is mandatory from Milwaukee to Green Bay, to La Crosse, and to Madison.
Advantages of our online course:
- Easily complete at your own pace
- Login and out of the course as many times as needed
- Up to 6 months to complete your course
- Only 80% to pass
- Retake final exam until pass if needed FREE
- Immediately download & email your certificate for FREE
We give you the tools to sell and serve alcohol responsibly.
With our course, you will protect yourself and the establishment where you are serving the alcohol.
Additionally, you will learn:
- The effects of alcohol on your patrons
- Keep customers from becoming intoxicated
- Intervene when you need to refuse a sale
- Prevent intoxicated customers from disturbing others
- Properly check IDs and recognize minors
- Prevent second-party sales
- Protect yourself and the establishment from liability
How to Get Your Wisconsin Bartending License?
- Enroll in our Wisconsin DOR-approved course—100% online and self-paced.
- Complete the training and download your Wisconsin Alcohol Seller Server Certificate.
- Take your certificate to the city clerk’s office in the municipality where you work to apply for your bartender license or operator’s permit.
State and Local Partnerships
As an approved Wisconsin DOR provider, we work closely with local municipalities such as city clerks and hospitality professionals statewide to ensure our course meets every legal and practical requirement. Wisconsin bars and restaurants recognize and trust our course, helping you confidently launch your career. We bring this same dedication and partnership to communities statewide, including our recent efforts supporting Hamilton, Ohio’s vibrant hospitality and volunteer community.
Read how we helped Hamilton, Ohio, build community spirit at RiversEdge.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Wisconsin Bartending License
What is a Wisconsin bartending license?
A Wisconsin bartending license, also called an operator’s permit, is required by state law for anyone who serves alcohol in Wisconsin. It ensures you’re trained in responsible beverage service and familiar with state alcohol laws.
How do I get a Wisconsin bartender's license?
To get a Wisconsin bartender license, you must:
- Complete a Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR)-approved responsible beverage server training course.
- Receive your Wisconsin Alcohol Seller Server Certificate.
- Bring this certificate to your city clerk’s office in the town or municipality where you work.
For more details, see our full guide: Wisconsin Alcohol Laws and Information.
What are the requirements and cost for a Wisconsin bartending license?
Requirements:
- Complete an approved responsible beverage server training course.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Apply at your city clerk’s office with your certificate of completion.
Cost: - Our course costs $12.50.
- City clerk offices may charge a separate license application fee.
What does a Wisconsin bartender’s license include?
A Wisconsin bartender’s license, or operator’s permit, includes legal permission to sell and serve alcoholic beverages in Wisconsin. It ensures you understand safe service practices and state alcohol laws.
How fast can I get my Wisconsin bartending license?
Our online Wisconsin DOR-approved course can be completed in just a few hours. Once you pass, you’ll immediately download your certificate of completion and can apply for your license with your city clerk.
How long is the Wisconsin bartending course?
Most people complete our online Wisconsin bartending course in 2 to 3 hours. It’s entirely self-paced, so you can go faster or slower depending on your schedule.
How long is a bartending license good for in Wisconsin?
A Wisconsin bartending license (operator’s permit) is typically valid for 1 to 2 years, depending on your city or municipality’s regulations. Check with your local city clerk’s office for specific renewal timelines.
How do I renew my Wisconsin bartending license?
To renew your Wisconsin bartending license, contact your city clerk’s office to find out their renewal requirements and fees. Some cities may require you to retake the responsible beverage server training if your certification has expired.
What age can you start bartending in Wisconsin?
You must be at least 18 years old to sell or serve alcohol in Wisconsin.
Who Controls Liquor Licensing In Wisconsin?
Liquor licensing in Wisconsin is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) at the state level and managed by local city clerk offices at the municipal level.
Find your local city clerks office by visiting the Wisconsin Towns Association website.
Wisconsin Department of Revenue
Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement
PO Box 8933
Madison, WI 53708-8933
Phone: (608) 266-6701
Fax: (608) 261-6240
Email: DORAlcoholTobaccoEnforcement@wisconsin.gov
How can I do a liquor license lookup in Wisconsin (liquor license WI)?
Business owners can use the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s liquor license lookup tool to check the status of a liquor license in Wisconsin. This tool helps you verify the license details for your establishment or any other licensed premises in Wisconsin.
Visit the official Wisconsin liquor license lookup tool for more information and to confirm your liquor license WI details.