With the growing demand for certified alcohol sellers and servers, proper training has become a prerequisite in the hospitality industry – offering lucrative opportunities for those willing to get certified.
This online guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an alcohol seller and server, from the most reputable online courses and certifications to how to start working today.
Key Takeaways
- Getting your alcohol seller-server certification lets you access numerious job opportunities and enhances your employability.
- Different states have different requirements for certification, so it’s essential to research and meet your state’s specific requirements.
- Attending a bartender school and additional bartender training can significantly elevate your skills and increase your value in the hospitality industry.
- Choosing a reputable and recognized certification provider is crucial to ensure a smooth and legitimate certification process.
Get Certified and Start Working Today
Today’s booming restaurant and bar scene means there’s never been a better time to get your alcohol seller-server certification.
Why Getting Certified Matters
Getting certified doesn’t just mean you’re legally allowed to sell and serve alcohol – it shows potential employers that you understand how to do so responsibly and safely. This crucial knowledge can make you a more attractive candidate and open more job opportunities.
The Benefits of Being Certified
The benefits of being certified extend far beyond getting a job. Being properly trained can help you avoid legal and employment issues, serve customers better, and even earn more in tips due to your increased knowledge and professionalism.
The Most Reputable and Recommended Alcohol Training Certification
While there are many alcohol training and alcohol certification, providers, choosing the most reputable and recommended ones is essential to ensure a smooth and legitimate alcohol certification, process.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Certification
Before you choose to purchase a course, consider factors such as cost, the time required for completion, the provider’s reputation, and whether the certification is recognized in your state.
Top Recommended Providers
There are many providers and courses out there, but some of the most reputable online courses include ServeSafe, TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS), and Learn2Serve.
Overview of Specific Alcohol Training Certifications
Different states have different requirements for alcohol seller-server certification. Here are some state-specific certifications you might need:
Illinois BASSET Certification + ANAB-Accredited Food Handler Training
For those working in Illinois, the BASSET certification combined with ANAB-accredited food handler training provides comprehensive and responsible alcohol training. This certification is crucial to ensure safe and responsible alcohol service and comply with Illinois law.
Louisiana Responsible Vendor + ANAB-Accredited Food Handler Training
In Louisiana, alcohol seller-servers must complete the Responsible Vendor training alongside an ANAB-accredited food handler training to meet the state’s requirements. This combination ensures alcohol servers who are well-equipped to handle both food and alcohol responsibly.
Utah E.A.S.Y Off-Premises Alcohol Sales Training
For those who sell alcohol off-premises in Utah, the E.A.S.Y off-premises alcohol sales and the training course is the required certification. This training course trains individuals in the legalities and responsibilities of selling alcohol in a non-restaurant setting.
Arizona Title 4 Basic + ANAB-Accredited Food Handler Training
Arizona has specific training requirements and regulations for alcohol seller-servers, including Title 4 Basic training and ANAB-accredited food handler training courses. Together, they provide a well-rounded foundation for anyone in the food and beverage industry.
RBS certification
California’s Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification is a mandatory training course for servers in the state of California. Established by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), the RBS certification aims to equip staff with the knowledge and skills needed to serve responsibly and mitigate alcohol-related harms.
This program covers essential topics like recognizing signs of intoxication, alcohol related harm, handling difficult situations, understanding the effects of alcohol, and complying with state laws related to alcoholic beverage sales.
Wisconsin Responsible Beverage Server + ANAB-Accredited Food Handler Training
In Wisconsin, the Responsible Beverage Server certification and ANAB-accredited food handler and server training program is required to serve. This helps ensure that all Wisconsin servers can serve safely and responsibly.
Washington Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST)
Those working in the state of Washington are required to complete the state course for Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST). This training ensures servers understand the laws and responsibilities related to serving alcohol in Washington.
Virginia Alcohol Seller-Server + ANAB-Accredited Food Handler Training
In Virginia, seller-servers must acquire the state-specific Alcohol-Seller-Server certification and complete ANAB-accredited food handler training. These combined programs ensure that all alcohol sellers and servers anywhere in Virginia are fully equipped to handle food and alcohol safely, responsibly, and legally.
Training at a Bartender School
If you’re looking to become a bartender, consider attending a reputable bartender school to take your alcohol-serving skills to the next level.
Benefits of Bartender Schools
Bartender schools teach you how to mix drinks and cover essential skills like customer service, inventory management, and the business aspects of running a bar.
What to Expect from a Bartender School
At a bartender school, you’ll get hands-on experience making cocktails, learn about different types of alcohol, and how to handle difficult situations, like dealing with intoxicated customers.
Top Bartender Schools to Consider
Some top-rated bartender schools include the European Bartender School, ABC Bartending Schools, and of course the New York Bartending School.
Learn to Serve Alcohol with Bartender Training
Alongside your seller-server alcohol certification, additional bartender and server alcohol training and programs can significantly enhance your skills and employability.
The Importance of Bartender Training
Training goes beyond the basics of serving and selling alcohol—it covers advanced techniques, cocktail recipes, and customer service skills, including curbing underage drinking, making you a valuable asset to any bar or restaurant. Many restaurants will not hire employees without some kind of responsible server training.
Key Skills Acquired in Bartender Training
From mastering cocktail recipes to handling busy bar rushes, server training programs will equip you with the necessary business skills to excel in the hospitality industry.
How Training Enhances Your Career Prospects
With training, you’ll be more than just a certified alcohol server. You’ll be a professional bartender with a wide range of skills, making you a highly desirable candidate for high-end bars, private clubs, and restaurants.
Take the Leap: Launch Your Career in the Hospitality Industry
By getting properly certified, you’ll be prepared to serve responsibly and professionally, setting a strong foundation for your career in alcohol serving the hospitality industry. It’s not just about learning the legalities—it’s about gaining the knowledge and skills to become an exceptional bartender.
Responsible Alcohol Training FAQ
How long does it take to get certified?
Depending on the various training courses and state regulations, getting certified can take a few hours to a few weeks. Many states you require you be certified before your first date of employment, so keep this in mind.
Is online certification legitimate?
Many reputable providers offer online alcohol certification, and since COVID, many state-run certificate programs have run entirely online. However, ensure the provider is recognized in your state and you can access you certification information online.
Do I need to be a certain age to get certified?
Requirements vary by state, of course, but typically you can get your certification first but must be be at least 18 to start serving drinks.
