How To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Illinois: A Step-by-Step Guide

TIPS Certification in Illinois: Key Takeaways

TIPS/BASSET certification costs between $5.95 and $24.99 online in Illinois, with employers sometimes covering fees.
TIPS certification is legally required statewide for bartenders, servers, managers, bouncers, and ID checkers.
Certification lasts for 3 years and renewal requires retaking training and passing an exam.

Illinois mandates BASSET (TIPS equivalent) certification statewide for many alcohol-related roles to ensure responsible service.

This article provides a detailed guide on how to get your TIPS certification in Illinois, including application processes, costs, exam expectations, and renewal procedures.

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Steps To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Illinois

Illinois offers TIPS/BASSET certification both online and in-person through approved BASSET programs.

Option 1: Online TIPS Certification

Visit the official TIPS website or the Illinois Liquor Control Commission website for a list of approved BASSET providers.
Select the appropriate course, such as TIPS On-Premise (for bartenders, servers, managers) or TIPS Off-Premise (for retail sellers).
Register and pay the fee online, ranging from $5.95 to $24.99 depending on provider.
Complete the self-paced 3-4 hour course covering Illinois alcohol laws and responsible service.
Pass the required exam with a minimum score of 70%.
Receive your electronic TIPS certification card upon successful completion.

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Option 2: In-Person TIPS Training

Find an ILCC-approved BASSET instructor offering in-person classes.
Choose a convenient class date and location.
Register and pay the fee, which may vary and is sometimes covered by employers.
Attend the 3-4 hour classroom training with interactive lessons tailored to Illinois laws.
Take the exam at the end of the session and must pass with 70% or better.
Receive a physical or digital TIPS certificate.

Group training sessions are also available and commonly arranged by employers for staff convenience. Check with your employer for options.

Cost of TIPS Certification in Illinois

The price for TIPS certification online in Illinois ranges from $5.95 to $24.99 depending on the chosen provider.

Exact in-person course costs vary and are sometimes covered fully or partially by employers.

TIPS certification is valid for 3 years from the date of issuance, after which renewal is required.

What To Expect in the Illinois TIPS Training and Exam

TIPS training in Illinois focuses on key responsible alcohol service topics such as:

Properties of alcohol and its effects
Preventing intoxication and ensuring customer safety
Illinois laws relating to minors and alcohol service
Practicing refusal of sale/service to minors
DUI penalties and dram shop liability
When and how to ask for customer ID
Rights to refuse service legally

At the end of training, you take a required exam with multiple-choice questions. To pass, a minimum score of 70% is necessary.

If you do not pass, unlimited retakes are allowed until you succeed.

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Renewal and Maintaining TIPS Certification

The TIPS certification in Illinois lasts 3 years. Renewal requires retaking the BASSET training course and passing the exam again.

It is important to renew before expiration to maintain compliance and employment eligibility.

Who Needs a TIPS Certification in Illinois?

Illinois law requires TIPS/BASSET certification for anyone involved in alcohol service or checking IDs for alcohol sale, including the following roles:

Bartenders
Servers
Managers
Bouncers
ID Checkers

Employers also typically require TIPS certification for these positions to comply with state laws and reduce liability.

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Benefits of Getting TIPS Certified in Illinois

Obtaining TIPS certification offers several advantages:

Legal compliance: Meet Illinois state requirements for responsible alcohol service.
Employment opportunities: Many employers mandate or prefer certified staff.
Risk reduction: Helps prevent alcohol-related incidents and limits liability.
Improved skills: Learn how to handle intoxicated customers and underage sales effectively.
Professionalism: Certification demonstrates commitment to safe alcohol service.

Understanding local laws is essential for responsible alcohol service in Illinois:

Legal drinking age: 21 years old statewide.
Alcohol sales hours: Vary according to local ordinances for both on-premise and off-premise sales.
ID checking required: Must verify age for anyone appearing under 21.
Dram shop liability: Businesses and servers can be held liable for damage caused by intoxicated persons they served.
Refuse service rights: Sellers may legally refuse service to intoxicated or underage customers.

TIPS training prepares servers and managers to comply with these laws effectively.

01. Is TIPS certification required in Illinois?

Yes, all on-premise alcohol servers and those who check IDs for alcohol service are required to complete BASSET training.

02. How long does TIPS certification take?

The on-premise course is a minimum of 4 hours, and the off-premise course is a minimum of 3 hours.

03. What happens if I fail the Illinois TIPS exam?

You are allowed unlimited attempts to pass the exam.

04. Can I use my Illinois TIPS certification in other states?

TIPS certification is recognized in many states, but requirements vary. Check with the specific state's regulations.

05. Where can I find a TIPS course near me?

Approved BASSET training programs can be found on the Illinois Liquor Control Commission's website.