Bartending is an exciting and popular career option that offers stable income and networking opportunities. However, before you become a certified bartender, you need to obtain a bartending license that confirms your expertise to serve alcohol. If you live in Tennessee and aspire to become a bartender, you might be wondering about the licensing procedure and how to go about it.
This article will guide you through the process of obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee. We will provide you with step-by-step instructions to help you navigate the licensing process with ease, and we will also share some tips and tricks to help you succeed in your bartending career. So, if you’re ready to take the next step towards becoming a professional bartender, read on!
The different types of bartending licenses in Tennessee
Before diving into the process of obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee, one must understand the different types of licenses available. In Tennessee, there are two primary liquor licenses for bartending – the Server Permit and the Liquor-by-the-Drink License.
The Server Permit is mandatory for all individuals who serve alcohol in a Tennessee establishment. This permit can be acquired by completing an online course issued by an approved provider. On the other hand, the Liquor-by-the-Drink License is issued to businesses that sell alcoholic beverages and allows them to serve and sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises. This license can be obtained by completing an application and meeting certain eligibility criteria. Understanding these two types of licenses is crucial to determine which one is relevant to your bartending career in Tennessee.
The eligibility criteria for getting a bartending license in Tennessee
To get a bartending license in Tennessee, there are certain eligibility criteria that you must meet. Firstly, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a license. Secondly, you must not have any felony convictions or any recent alcohol-related convictions. This means that you must not have been convicted of any alcohol-related offenses, such as DUI or public intoxication, in the past five years.
Additionally, you must complete a state-approved alcohol training course before applying for a license. The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission offers a variety of courses, both online and in-person, that cover topics such as responsible alcohol service, alcohol laws, and detecting and preventing intoxication. After completing the selected course, you will receive a certificate of completion, which you will need to include in your application for a bartending license. By meeting these eligibility requirements, you can successfully apply for your bartending license in Tennessee.
The application process for a bartending license in Tennessee
To apply for a bartending license in Tennessee, you must be at least 18 years old and complete an alcohol server training program before submitting your application. The state of Tennessee requires anyone who serves, sells, or handles alcohol to complete an approved training program within the past five years. The training program is a mandatory requirement for all alcohol license applicants, and failure to obtain the certification may lead to a delay or rejection of your application.
After completing the alcohol server training program, you can visit the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission’s website to apply for your bartending license. The application form requires basic personal information such as your name, address, and social security number, along with details about the establishment where you will be working. The application fee for a bartending license in Tennessee is $75, and processing times can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It is essential to ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted with all the required documentation to avoid any delays or rejection in the process.
The costs associated with obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee
Obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee requires a certain amount of investment. The cost of getting certified is not fixed but varies depending on various factors such as the type of course one chooses, the school that one attends, and the amount of time and effort one dedicates to the course.
Initially, the cost of a bartending course may seem high, but it is important to view it as an investment. In the long run, having a bartending license will open up many job opportunities, which could lead to a more lucrative career. One can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $500 depending on the type of certification they choose to obtain. It is advisable to research various bartending schools and choose one that offers a suitable course at an affordable price.
Preparing for the Tennessee bartending exam
To become a licensed bartender in Tennessee, you will need to pass a bartending exam administered by the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Commission. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, covering topics such as responsible serving practices, legal requirements for serving alcohol, and recognizing signs of intoxication.
To prepare for the exam, it is recommended to take a training course specifically designed for bartenders. These courses often cover the material tested on the exam and provide hands-on experience in mixology and customer service. Additionally, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission provides study materials and practice exams on their website to help candidates prepare for the test.
It is important to note that passing the exam does not guarantee obtaining a bartending job. Employers may require additional training or certifications, such as ServSafe certification or TIPS training, before hiring a bartender. However, obtaining a Tennessee bartending license is a crucial step towards starting a career in the state’s hospitality industry.
The benefits of obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee
Obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee comes with several benefits. Firstly, it opens up numerous job opportunities in the hospitality industry, as most employers require bartenders to have a license. This means that those with a bartending license have access to a wider range of jobs and can potentially earn more money than their unlicensed counterparts.
Furthermore, having a license demonstrates a level of professionalism and skill in the craft of bartending, which can lead to higher tips and customer satisfaction. In addition, bartending licenses often require the completion of a responsible alcohol service course, which educates license holders on the dangers of serving alcohol and how to prevent over-serving. This not only benefits the customers, but it also protects the establishment from legal repercussions. Overall, obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee is a wise investment for anyone looking to pursue a career in the hospitality industry.
Resources and courses for obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee.
To obtain a bartending license in Tennessee, there are various resources and courses available to help you. The first step is to ensure that the course you take is approved by the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Enrolling in a TABC-approved training program will take you through a comprehensive course that covers liquor laws, responsibilities of bartending, alcohol service techniques, and more.
Some of the most popular options for obtaining your bartending license in Tennessee include ABC Bartending Schools, Professional Bartending Schools of America, and the Tennessee School of Bartending. These schools offer both traditional classroom settings and online options for those who prefer a more flexible schedule. Courses range in price and duration, so it is important to do your research and choose the option that best fits your needs and budget to obtain your bartending license in Tennessee.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee is a necessary step if you plan on pursuing a career in this industry. While the process can seem lengthy and challenging at first, it is important to remember that it is a valuable investment in your future. Through a combination of education, training, and testing, you will learn the skills and knowledge needed to provide safe and responsible service to your customers.
Overall, the requirements for obtaining a bartending license in Tennessee are straightforward and well-defined. By completing the necessary courses and exams, you can gain the experience and knowledge to confidently and legally serve alcohol in a variety of settings. Whether you are pursuing this career as a full-time job or as a side gig, taking the time to become licensed is an important step in achieving success as a bartender.