The Training for Intervention ProcedureS (TIPS) certification is an alcohol server training program that educates individuals on responsible alcohol service and helps prevent intoxication, underage drinking, and drunk driving.
In Maine, obtaining a TIPS certification is not legally required statewide, but many employers and municipalities mandate it for bartenders, servers, and alcohol sellers to comply with local regulations.
This guide will walk you through the TIPS certification process in Maine, covering eligibility, training options, costs, exam details, and renewal requirements.
What is TIPS Certification?
TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) is a nationally recognized alcohol training program designed for Bartenders, Servers, sellers, and managers in establishments that serve or sell alcohol. The program focuses on:
- Recognizing signs of intoxication
- Preventing sales to minors
- Handling difficult situations involving alcohol service
- Understanding Maine’s liquor laws and compliance requirements
TIPS certification is widely accepted in Maine and is often required by bars, restaurants, liquor stores, and event venues to ensure compliance with state and local liquor laws.
Who Needs a TIPS Certification in Maine?
While Maine does not have a statewide law mandating TIPS certification, some businesses, insurance companies, and municipalities require their employees to complete responsible alcohol training. TIPS certification is recommended (or required) for:
- Bartenders
- Servers at restaurants or bars
- Store clerks selling alcohol
- Hotel and casino staff handling alcohol sales
- Event staff serving alcohol at catered functions
- Managers and owners of establishments with a liquor license
Many employers prefer or mandate TIPS certification to reduce liability risks and comply with state or municipal training requirements.
Steps to Acquire a TIPS Certification in Maine
TIPS certification in Maine is available through two formats:
- Online Training – Available directly through the TIPS website.
- In-Person Training – Conducted by certified TIPS trainers at approved locations.
Each format provides Maine-specific alcohol laws and best practices for responsible alcohol service.
Option 1: Online TIPS Certification
- Visit the official TIPS website: www.gettips.com
- Choose a Maine-approved course based on your role:
- TIPS On-Premise: For Bartenders, Servers, and restaurant staff.
- TIPS Off-Premise: For liquor store clerks and retail alcohol sellers.
- TIPS Concessions: For stadium, festival, and special event workers.
- TIPS Gaming: For casino employees.
- Register and pay the course fee (typically $40–$50).
- Complete the self-paced online training (2–3 hours).
- Pass the final exam (must score 70% or higher).
- Receive your TIPS certification card via email.
Option 2: In-Person TIPS Training
- Find a Maine-certified TIPS instructor at www.gettips.com.
- Select a class location and date.
- Register and pay the fee (typically $40–$60).
- Attend the live training session (typically 3–5 hours).
- Take and pass the final exam.
- Receive your TIPS certification card (digital or physical).
Many employers arrange group training sessions with a certified instructor, making it easier for staff to get certified at once.
Cost of TIPS Certification in Maine
The cost of obtaining a TIPS certification in Maine varies depending on the training format:
- Online TIPS Course: $40–$50 per person.
- In-Person TIPS Course: $40–$60 per person (may include materials and classroom fees).
- Employer-Sponsored Training: Some employers cover the cost for their staff.
Once certified, the TIPS certification is valid for three years before requiring renewal.
What to Expect in the TIPS Training and Exam
TIPS training includes interactive lessons, videos, and real-world scenarios to teach responsible alcohol service. The topics covered include:
- Checking IDs and spotting fake IDs
- Understanding Maine alcohol laws and regulations
- Recognizing signs of intoxication
- Preventing alcohol-related incidents
- Handling difficult customers and refusing service safely
Final Exam Details
- Format: Multiple-choice questions.
- Passing Score: 70% or higher.
- Retakes: If you fail, one free retake is typically allowed.
- Time Limit: Usually one hour to complete.
Once you pass the exam, you will receive a TIPS certification card, which you can present to employers.
Renewal and Maintaining TIPS Certification
TIPS certification in Maine is valid for three years. To remain certified, you must renew your certification before it expires.
Renewal Process
- Retake the online or in-person course before expiration.
- Complete updated training (covers new laws and best practices).
- Pass the final exam again.
- Receive a new TIPS certification card.
Many employers remind their employees when their certification is about to expire.
Benefits of Getting TIPS Certified in Maine
Getting TIPS certified offers several advantages:
- Increases job opportunities – Many bars, restaurants, and retail stores require or prefer TIPS-certified employees.
- Reduces employer liability – Businesses with certified staff lower their risk of liability lawsuits.
- Improves alcohol service skills – Servers and Bartenders learn how to handle difficult situations effectively.
- Ensures legal compliance – Knowing Maine alcohol laws helps prevent violations and penalties.
- Boosts professionalism – Certification demonstrates responsibility and commitment to safe alcohol service.
Key Maine Alcohol Laws Related to TIPS Certification
When working in Maine’s hospitality industry, it’s important to understand key state liquor laws:
- Legal Drinking Age: 21 years old.
- Hours of Alcohol Sales:
- On-Premise (bars, restaurants) – 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM (or 2:00 AM on certain days).
- Off-Premise (liquor stores) – 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
- ID Checking: Must verify age for any customer appearing under 27 years old.
- Dram Shop Laws: Maine businesses can be held liable for serving alcohol to intoxicated individuals who later cause harm.
- Refusing Service: Businesses have the legal right to refuse service to intoxicated or underage customers.
TIPS training helps employees comply with these laws while handling real-world service challenges.
FAQs About Acquiring a TIPS Certificate in Maine
No, Maine does not have a statewide mandate for TIPS certification. However, many employers and cities require it for alcohol-serving employees.
The course takes 2–3 hours online or 3–5 hours in-person, plus time for the exam.
You typically get one free retake. If you fail again, you may need to re-enroll and pay again.
Yes, TIPS is nationally recognized, but check state-specific alcohol laws before working elsewhere.
Visit www.gettips.com to find online and in-person training options in Maine.
