A “bartending license” usually means a server permit or a responsible-service certification that shows you have been trained to serve alcohol safely and legally. The duties of a bartender include serving customers, taking orders, and tracking inventory. A bartender can work in any establishment where alcohol is served. The liquor license itself belongs to the business, not to the bartender. Requirements vary from state to state: some states require servers and bartenders to complete a state-approved course or hold a permit, while others make training voluntary or have no statewide requirement.
Benefits of Bartending License Requirements The primary benefit of bartender certification is the increased opportunity in working in more places, since many employers prefer or require it. You do not need a college degree to work at nightclubs, hotels or restaurants: according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, bartenders typically need no formal education credential and learn on the job. Certifications don’t last forever, though. In California, for example, Responsible Beverage Service certification is valid for three years, and Oregon’s service permit is good for five years, so plan to renew.
Convenient Training Many people like the convenience of getting their bartender certification online, where the state allows it. There are numerous courses that can help an individual get his or her certification. If your state requires training, make sure the course is approved by your state’s alcohol beverage control agency. A general bartending course that teaches how to mix drinks, serving and customer service is useful, but it doesn’t replace a state-required certification.
Convenient Experience Getting your bartending license on the internet is convenient because students need only to register, pay the fee and submit their proofs of training or previous experience. Once approved, they can now sit for the test. Some states run their own exam: California, for example, requires servers to complete approved training and then pass the state’s Alcohol Server Certification Exam. Students can now begin to enjoy their career as professional bartenders once they have their certification. This will give them the edge over other aspiring bartenders.
Where Your Certification Counts A server certification or permit means that an individual has met the training requirements needed in order to serve alcohol in that state. Certifications are generally issued under one state’s rules, so if you move to another state, check whether you need a new one.
Some cities and counties have their own training or permit rules on top of the state’s, so check local requirements too. A bartending certification is a great advantage that will open doors for you, but it also requires hard work, determination and a good knowledge on tips and techniques on how to serve alcohol tastefully and professionally. Bartending classes provide bartending license training, which includes everything that a student needs to pass the test, and other information regarding the laws in one’s state. bartending course providers offer different courses that are suited for different level of bartending experience.
More tips
Most state-approved responsible-service courses cover responsible alcohol sales, spotting fake IDs and handling intoxicated guests.
Timing rules differ. Some places require the certificate before your first shift, while others give new hires a set period to complete it after starting. In California, for example, on-premises servers must complete Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) training and pass the exam within 60 days of being hired.
TIPS is one of the most widely recognized responsible-service programs. In New York, ATAP (Alcohol Training Awareness Program) courses and TIPS are voluntary, but many employers like to see one on a resume.
Check your own state’s rules before you enroll.