Bartending is more than just mixing drinks; it’s about ensuring the responsible service of alcoholic beverages. To serve alcoholic beverages legally and safely, you must understand the Rhode Island bartending license and its associated regulations.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and gain the necessary knowledge to excel as a bartender in the Ocean State.
Key Takeaways
- Taking state-approved alcohol server training before working as a bartender is required.
- TIPS certification equips you with the skills necessary to serve alcohol responsibly and handle various situations that may arise.
- Beyond bartenders, some restaurant positions may also require a bartending license to serve alcohol.
Does Rhode Island Require a Bartending License?
Yes, in Rhode Island, individuals involved in selling or serving alcoholic beverages are required to undergo alcohol server training from a program that has been approved by Rhode Island’s Department of Business Regulation. This same alcohol server training program is a prerequisite to legally serving alcoholic drinks in the state.
Restaurant Jobs That Require a Bartender’s License
While bartenders are the primary focus of bartending licenses, other restaurant positions also require this certification.
Jobs that involve selling or serving alcohol, supervising individuals who do, checking IDs of customers purchasing alcoholic beverages, and working as valet parking staff all require they receive alcohol server training. Staff must take this training within 60 days.
Bartending Age Rhode Island
According to the APIS, in Rhode Island, you must be at least 18 years of age to bartend, sell or serve alcoholic drinks.
How to Get a Bartending License in Rhode Island
You must follow a specific process to obtain a Rhode Island bartender license. This section will guide you through the steps you must take, from choosing a state-approved course to completing your training and passing the necessary exams. You’ll know how to navigate the certification bartender license process by the end successfully.
The Department of Business Regulation (DBR) manages Rhode Island liquor licensing, alcohol sales and liquor enforcement in Rhode Island.
Currently, these courses are listed as approved by the state. (source)
- https://hmic.com/approved-alcohol-server-training-programs/
- https://www.userve.com/us/ri/alcohol-service/server-seller-training
- https://rserving.com/web/pscc_state.php?siteid=251&statecode=RI
- https://servesafetrainingcourses.com/rhode_island_alcohol_seller_server_training_bartender_certification.html
- https://tamusa.org/product/rhode-island-alcohol-management-training/
- https://www.userve.com/us/ri/alcohol-service/server-seller-training
- https://www.360training.com/learn2serve/alcohol/rhode-island
- https://www.rihospitality.org/RIHEF-Alcohol-Server-Training
- https://www.gettips.com/online/alcohol-certified-ri
Rhode Island (RI) Alcohol Laws
Understanding Rhode Island’s alcohol laws is fundamental for anyone serving alcoholic beverages. These laws dictate the legal age for consumption of alcoholic beverages, the hours during which alcohol can be sold, and the rules and regulations governing the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Adherence to these laws is crucial to avoid legal troubles and ensure the safety of alcohol servers, patrons and the community.
Additional Requirements Around Rhode Island Server Training Programs
In addition to the core training required, there are some other things to keep in mind:
- The minimum passing score for server training is seventy-five per cent (75%)
- Employees must complete their responsible server training within 60 days of starting work.
- You need to renew your licenses every three (3) years.
What Skills Will You Learn During the Training?
Bartending school isn’t just about getting your bartending license; it’s about equipping yourself with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the field. During your training, you’ll learn valuable skills beyond mixing drinks, such as conflict resolution, responsible alcohol service, and more. These skills are essential for providing exceptional service while maintaining the safety of patrons.
FAQ: Bartending License Requirements in Rhode Island
Do I need a Rhode Island bartending license to work as a bartender in the state?
Yes, Rhode Island mandates that all individuals serving alcoholic drinks must hold a valid license.
How old do you have to be to bartend in Rhode Island?
You can start selling and making drinks at 18 in Rhode Island. (source)
How much is a bartending license in Rhode Island?
The cost varies but ranges from under $10 to about $30. We looked at the prices listed on the approved trainer’s websites and found some offers employers receive, leading to a per-student price of under $10 if they train multiple team members at once.
Employers receive discount pricing if they sign up multiple team members to take the server training program together as bulk purchases.
Can I work in a restaurant without a bartending license in Rhode Island?
Some restaurant positions, such as servers and managers, may receive alcohol server training and also require a license to sell or serve alcoholic beverages. It’s essential to understand which roles necessitate this certification.
If you’re interested in bartending in other American states, we’ve written an article about bartending requirements across America here.
