Attaching Your Training Course To License Application

Alcohol training courses are often a prerequisite for obtaining a license to sell or serve alcohol. These courses are designed to educate individuals about their legal responsibilities when dealing with alcoholic beverages, including preventing sales to minors and refusing service to intoxicated customers. While the specific requirements vary by location, most jurisdictions mandate some form of alcohol server training to ensure compliance with local laws and promote responsible alcohol service. The training programs are typically offered by accredited institutions or organizations approved by the relevant state alcohol and beverage commission. Upon successful completion of the course and examination, individuals receive a certification or permit that enables them to legally work in establishments serving alcohol.

Understanding state laws and regulations

In Tennessee, the state has strict laws about serving alcohol, and non-compliance can result in fines or losing your license. To work in the service industry where alcohol is served, individuals must complete the Tennessee Server Permit requirements. This includes registering for an account on the state's Responsible Licensing and Permitting System Citizen Portal (RLPS) and providing two forms of identification. After paying a fee and passing a background check, individuals can take the required course and final exam. The state will then issue a certificate, which is valid for five years.

In Washington, DC, individuals seeking an ABC Manager License must complete an alcohol awareness training program approved by the ABC Board and submit a certificate with their license application. The state only accepts certifications from specific independently owned and operated programs, including State Food Safety, Inc., Certification Experts Alcohol Training and Education Certification Program, Diversys Learning, and Learn2Serve Alcohol Awareness Courses.

Additionally, in New York, the SLA's ATAP (Alcohol Training Awareness Program) program offers training in the legal responsibilities of selling alcohol. While not mandatory, the Authority recommends that all licensees and employees who serve or sell alcoholic beverages take this program to avoid violations, including preventing sales to underage persons.

It is important to note that the requirements for serving or selling alcohol can vary from state to state, and even within a state, there may be different types of licenses and permits needed for different roles in the industry. Therefore, it is essential to review the specific laws and regulations in your state and consult official sources or relevant authorities to ensure compliance.

Recognising intoxicated customers

Training and Education:

Enroll in alcohol awareness training programs or server training courses, such as TABC certification in Texas or ABC server training. These courses teach you about your legal responsibilities, how to recognise intoxicated customers, and strategies for refusing service. The knowledge gained from these courses will help you make informed decisions and keep your customers and your business safe.

Monitor Customer Behavior:

Teach your staff to regularly observe customers' actions, speech patterns, and physical appearances for signs of intoxication. This includes slurred speech, unsteady gait, glassy eyes, or changes in behaviour. Encourage your personnel to engage in friendly and non-confrontational conversations with customers to assess their level of intoxication discreetly.

Implement Reservation Profiles:

Utilise a restaurant reservation system that allows you to highlight past intoxication-related behaviour for specific customers. This information can serve as a warning to your staff, enabling them to be more cautious when serving these individuals.

Control Customer Flow:

Regulate the flow of customers and avoid overcrowding in your establishment. This helps prevent overserving and allows your staff to better monitor customer behaviour, creating a safer and more controlled environment.

Establish Clear Policies:

Develop and communicate clear policies on how your business handles intoxicated customers. Ensure your staff knows it is acceptable to seek managerial assistance when dealing with challenging situations. Having established policies in place can help reduce the potential for conflict when refusing service.

Handle Customers Respectfully:

When refusing service to intoxicated customers, it is important to remain respectful and discrete. Be friendly yet firm in your decision. Express concern for their well-being and emphasise that you want them to get home safely. Offer non-alcoholic drink alternatives or suggest food to help sober them up.

Assist with Transportation:

If an intoxicated customer does not have a safe way to get home, assist them in arranging transportation. Suggest a cab service or a ride-sharing app like Lyft or Uber. Doing so can ensure the customer's safety and reduce the risk of drunk driving.

Remember, recognising intoxicated customers is a critical aspect of responsible alcohol service. By educating yourself and your staff, implementing proactive measures, and handling customers with respect and care, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Checking IDs and refusing service

Checking IDs:

• Ask for ID from anyone who appears youthful: It is essential to request identification from customers who look young and could potentially be under the legal drinking age.
• Check for valid forms of ID: Familiarize yourself with acceptable forms of identification in your area. Each state has specific ID cards, so it is helpful to have a guidebook outlining the various types.
• Physically handle the ID: Ask customers to remove the ID from their wallets or ID holders. This allows you to properly examine the ID by feeling its rigidity, weight, smoothness, and rounded edges, which can help identify fake IDs.
• Use the F-L-A-G system: This acronym can help you remember how to check for false or borrowed IDs. Feel the ID for rigidity, Look at the edges for smoothness, Ask questions about the ID, and use your eyes to Generally examine the ID.
• Be cautious with unfamiliar IDs: If you are not familiar with a particular type of identification, do not rely on it. You can ask for another form of ID or refuse service if you have doubts.
• Know the legal drinking age: Be aware of the legal drinking age in your area, which is typically 21 years old in the United States.

Refusing Service:

• Know your rights: Understand that you are not required to sell or serve alcohol to anyone. Customers do not have a legal right to buy alcohol, and you have the right to refuse service if a customer cannot provide valid identification or if you suspect a fake ID.
• Have a store policy: Inform customers that it is your store policy to check IDs for anyone who appears youthful. This can help customers understand the reason for ID checks and show that you are following consistent procedures.
• Post signs about the law: Display signs that inform customers about the legal consequences of minors attempting to purchase alcoholic beverages. This can act as a deterrent and also demonstrate your commitment to complying with the law.
• Train your staff: Ensure your staff is adequately trained on policies and laws regarding alcohol sales. This includes knowing how to handle suspected false or counterfeit IDs and how to refuse service appropriately.
• Do not discriminate: When refusing service, be mindful not to discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or national origin, among other protected characteristics.

Remember, responsible alcohol service is a critical skill set that helps ensure the safety of your customers, yourself, and your employer. By effectively checking IDs and confidently refusing service when necessary, you play a vital role in preventing underage drinking and its associated legal and health consequences.

Completing an accredited course

To complete an accredited alcohol training course, you will need to find a course provider that is approved by your state's alcohol and beverage commission. For example, in Texas, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) regulates the alcoholic beverage industry and sets the curriculum for TABC training. TABC-approved providers include TIPS and Learn2Serve by 360training. Similarly, in Tennessee, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission approves Server Permit training for those seeking to serve liquor, wine, and high-gravity beer.

In Washington, D.C., the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA) provides a list of approved alcohol awareness training programs, including State Food Safety, Inc., Certification Experts Alcohol Training and Education Certification Program, and Diversys Learning, among others. It is important to ensure that the course you select covers the specific topics you need, such as checking IDs, refusing service, and handling difficult customers, as well as any state and local laws that may apply.

Once you have identified an accredited course provider, you will typically need to register for the course and complete any required training materials, which may include online modules, classroom training, or a combination of both. Some courses may also require you to pass a final exam to successfully complete the course. After finishing the course, you should receive a certificate of completion, which you can then attach to your license application.

It is worth noting that the requirements for alcohol training courses and the process for attaching the certification to your license application may vary depending on your location and the specific type of license you are seeking. Therefore, it is always advisable to check with your local alcohol and beverage commission or relevant regulatory body for specific instructions and guidelines.

Receiving certification and license

The process of obtaining a license to serve alcohol can vary depending on your location and the specific requirements of the state or country in which you reside. However, there are some general steps that you can follow to increase your chances of successfully obtaining your certification and license. Firstly, it is important to identify the relevant alcohol licensing authority for your region. In the United States, for example, this could be the Alcoholic Beverage Commission (ABC) or the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) in Texas. These governing bodies often outline the specific requirements and steps needed to obtain a license.

Once you have identified the governing body, you should research the specific requirements for certification. This may include completing an alcohol training course that covers topics such as responsible alcohol service, checking IDs, refusing service, and the legal responsibilities of selling alcohol. Some courses may be offered online, while others may require in-person attendance. It is important to ensure that the course you select is approved by the relevant alcohol and beverage commission, as this is often a prerequisite for certification.

After completing the necessary training, you will typically need to pass an exam to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the course material. This could be a final exam administered by the training provider or a certification exam offered by the governing body. Upon successfully passing the exam, you will receive a certificate of completion, which serves as proof of your training.

The final step in the process is to apply for your license. This typically involves submitting an application to the relevant alcohol licensing authority, along with the required documentation and fees. In some cases, you may need to provide additional information, such as proof of identity or a background check. The specific requirements and fees can vary depending on your location, so it is important to refer to the guidelines provided by your local alcohol licensing authority.

It is worth noting that certifications and licenses often have an expiration date and need to be renewed periodically. This process may involve completing additional training or paying a renewal fee. By staying up to date with the requirements and maintaining your certification and license, you can ensure that you are compliant with the regulations surrounding the service of alcohol in your region.

Frequently asked questions