How To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Indiana: Full Guide

TIPS Certification in Indiana: Key Takeaways

• TIPS certification is legally required statewide in Indiana for alcohol servers and sellers, with no cost for mandatory courses.
• Training is available online, in-person, and via group sessions to accommodate different learning preferences.
• Certification lasts for three years and requires passing an exam with a minimum score of 70% to obtain the certificate.

Indiana mandates TIPS certification for employees involved in alcohol service, ensuring compliance with state alcohol laws and responsible practices. This article offers a detailed overview of how to get TIPS certified, including application, training, and renewal.

Learn about the certification process, costs, exam details, and legal aspects for Indiana to successfully earn and maintain your TIPS certificate.

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Steps To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Indiana

TIPS certification in Indiana can be earned either online or in person with flexible options including group sessions for employee convenience.

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Option 1: Online TIPS Certification

• Visit the Indiana Alcohol & Tobacco Commission (ATC) server training page or the official TIPS website.
• Select the appropriate training course based on your role: TIPS On-Premise, Off-Premise, Concessions, or Gaming.
• Register for the free state-approved online course.
• Complete the minimum 2-hour self-paced online training covering state laws, alcohol effects, ID verification, and responsible service.
• Pass the final exam with a score of at least 70% within the allotted 60 minutes.
• Receive your digital TIPS certification via email upon passing the exam.

Option 2: In-Person TIPS Training

• Locate an Indiana-certified TIPS trainer or class via the ATC website.
• Choose a convenient date and location for the live session.
• Attend the instructor-led training which runs for a minimum of 2 hours and covers the same topics as the online course.
• Complete the official exam and achieve a passing score of 70% or higher within 60 minutes.
• Obtain your physical or digital TIPS certification from the instructor after successful completion.
• Group training sessions are often arranged by employers to facilitate mass certification among staff.

Cost of TIPS Certification in Indiana

In Indiana, TIPS certification is typically free of charge for employees due to state mandates. Employers often cover any incidental costs related to in-person training.

No fees are required for the online or in-person courses, making certification easily accessible to alcohol service personnel across the state.

The certification remains valid for three years from the date of issuance, after which renewal is necessary.

What To Expect in the Indiana TIPS Training and Exam

The TIPS training program delivers interactive content including videos and scenarios covering:

• State laws and rules governing alcoholic beverage sales and service in Indiana
• Physiological effects of alcohol on the human body
• How to recognize signs of intoxication
• Legal requirements for refusing service to minors and intoxicated persons
• Proper techniques for checking identification and detecting fake IDs

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The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test knowledge from the training, with a passing threshold of 70%. Candidates have up to 60 minutes to complete it and may retake if initially unsuccessful.

Renewal and Maintaining TIPS Certification

TIPS certification in Indiana is effective for 3 years. Renewal is mandatory to continue legally serving alcohol.

To renew, individuals must complete a refresher training course every three years following initial certification to stay informed of updates to laws and best practices.

Who Needs a TIPS Certification in Indiana?

Indiana law mandates TIPS certification for persons holding an Employee Permit to dispense alcoholic beverages. This commonly includes:

• Bartenders serving alcohol on-premise
• Servers handling beverage sales in restaurants and bars
• Managers overseeing alcohol service operations
• Sales clerks selling alcohol at retail locations

If you work in any of these roles within Indiana, a TIPS certification is legally required to ensure compliance with the state liquor laws.

Benefits of Getting TIPS Certified in Indiana

Obtaining TIPS certification offers several professional advantages:

• Legal compliance – Meet Indiana’s mandatory server training requirements.
• Enhanced knowledge – Learn to recognize intoxication and prevent sales to minors.
• Liability reduction – Businesses with certified staff lower risks under dram shop laws.
• Improved job prospects – Certification is often required or preferred by employers.
• Professional credibility – Demonstrates commitment to responsible alcohol service and safety.

Key Indiana Alcohol Laws Related to TIPS Certification

Understanding Indiana’s alcohol laws is crucial for responsible service:

• Legal Drinking Age: Must be 21 years or older to purchase or consume alcohol.
• Alcohol Sales Hours: Sales are permitted 7:00 AM to 3:00 AM for both on-premise and off-premise locations.
• ID Checking: Required for any customer who appears under 40 years old.
• Dram Shop Liability: Establishments and servers can be held liable for harm caused by intoxicated patrons served illegally.
• Right to Refuse Service: Servers and managers have the legal authority to refuse service to minors or visibly intoxicated persons.

TIPS certification educates employees on these laws to help prevent violations and promote safe alcohol service environments.