How To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Maryland: Full Guide

TIPS Certification in Maryland: Key Takeaways

TIPS certification costs $15 for online courses in Maryland, with in-person costs not specified, and some employers may cover the expense.
It is not legally required statewide but often required by employers, especially for roles serving alcohol.
Certification lasts 4 years, and renewal requires completing training and passing the exam again.

Obtaining a TIPS certification in Maryland helps ensure responsible alcohol service, meeting employer requirements even though not mandated statewide.

This article outlines how to get certified, available training methods, costs, exam details, and renewal information for Maryland.

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Steps To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Maryland

TIPS certification in Maryland is available both online and in-person, with group training options often provided by employers.

Learning about the steps to become a bartender can go hand in hand with obtaining TIPS certification, as both involve similar skill sets and qualifications.

Option 1: Online TIPS Certification

Go to StateFoodSafety or the official TIPS website.
Select the appropriate course: TIPS On-Premise for bartenders and servers or TIPS Off-Premise for liquor store clerks.
Register, pay the $15 course fee, and complete the 2.5-hour self-paced training.
Pass the final exam with a minimum of 75% correct answers.
Receive your digital TIPS certification card by email.

Option 2: In-Person TIPS Training

Find a Maryland-certified TIPS instructor or training center.
Register and pay the training fee (cost varies, not specified).
Attend the 4-6 hour live training session.
Pass the exam with at least a 75% score to receive certification.
Get your physical or digital TIPS certification card after successful completion.

Employers often organize group training sessions, making it easier for teams to get certified together.

Cost of TIPS Certification in Maryland

The online TIPS course costs a flat fee of $15, which is affordable for most trainees.

The cost of in-person classes is not publicly specified, but employers may cover or subsidize training expenses for their staff.

The certification remains valid for 4 years before needing renewal.

What To Expect in the Maryland TIPS Training and Exam

TIPS training covers essential topics such as:

ID checking and recognizing fake IDs
Maryland-specific alcohol laws
How to spot signs of intoxication effectively
Methods to prevent alcohol-related incidents
Proper ways to safely refuse service

The final exam is multiple-choice, requiring at least 75% to pass.

If you fail, you have the option for free retakes until you pass.

Crafting a strong bartender resume can complement your TIPS certification by showcasing your skills and training to employers.

Renewal and Maintaining TIPS Certification

TIPS certification in Maryland is valid for 4 years. To renew, you must complete the training and pass the exam again before expiration.

Renewal helps you stay current with updated laws and responsible service practices.

Who Needs a TIPS Certification in Maryland?

Though not required statewide, many employers mandate TIPS certification for employees in positions including:

Bartenders
Servers at bars and restaurants
Liquor store clerks
Casino staff

Individuals in these roles benefit from certification to comply with employer policies and local county rules.

Benefits of Getting TIPS Certified in Maryland

Improves job prospects by meeting typical employer requirements.
Enhances skills in safe alcohol service, preventing incidents and underage sales.
Reduces liability risks for employers through responsible service practices.
Ensures compliance with Maryland’s diverse county-level alcohol laws.
Boosts professionalism by demonstrating commitment to responsible alcohol management.

Legal Drinking Age: 21 years old.
Alcohol Sales Hours: Varies by county for both on-premise and off-premise sales.
ID Checking: Required for anyone appearing under 21.
Dram Shop Liability: Maryland does not apply dram shop laws statewide.
Right to Refuse Service: Establishments can legally refuse service to intoxicated or underage patrons.

TIPS training equips servers with the knowledge and skills to comply with these laws while maintaining a safe environment.