In Texas, bartenders are not required to have a specific license to bartend. However, most employers in the food, restaurant, or beverage industries do require their bartenders and seller servers to have a certification known as the “Seller-Server Certified” certification. This certification is commonly referred to as the TABC certification, which stands for Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
The TABC certification is an alcohol safety awareness training program that teaches individuals about the responsible service, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages. It covers topics such as identifying signs of intoxication, understanding alcohol laws and regulations, preventing underage drinking, and handling difficult situations involving alcohol.
Having the TABC certification not only demonstrates your knowledge and commitment to responsible alcohol service, but it also provides liability protection for both the employer and the employee. By completing this certification, bartenders and seller servers in Texas can ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide a safe and enjoyable drinking experience for their customers.
To obtain the TABC certification, individuals can take an approved training course either in-person or online. There are various providers that offer this certification, and the course typically takes a few hours to complete. Once the course is successfully finished, the individual will receive a TABC certificate, which is valid for two years.
I personally went through the process of obtaining my TABC certification when I started working as a bartender in Texas. The training course I took was online and allowed me to learn at my own pace. The course material was comprehensive and provided me with valuable information about responsible alcohol service.
Having the TABC certification has been beneficial for me in my bartending career. It has given me the confidence to handle various situations that may arise, such as dealing with intoxicated customers or checking IDs to prevent underage drinking. It has also provided me with a competitive advantage in the job market, as many employers specifically look for candidates who are TABC certified.
While bartenders in Texas do not need a license specifically for bartending, the majority of employers require their bartenders and seller servers to have the TABC certification. This certification ensures that individuals are trained in alcohol safety and responsible service, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for customers. Obtaining the TABC certification is a valuable investment for those working in the food, restaurant, or beverage industries in Texas.