TIPS Certification in Missouri: Key Takeaways
- TIPS certification is not legally required statewide in Missouri, but it is commonly required by employers in the hospitality industry.
- The State of Missouri offers the free SMART training program as the primary alcohol server certification option, which can be completed online.
- TIPS-specific courses are not offered or required in Missouri, and the SMART certification lasts for two years.
While TIPS certification is not legally mandated in Missouri, many employers require responsible alcohol service training, generally through the free SMART program. This article details how to obtain alcohol server certification in Missouri.
Learn how to apply, training options, costs, exam details, renewal process, and the roles that require certification in Missouri's hospitality industry.
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Steps To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Missouri
Missouri does not require TIPS certification statewide. Instead, the state offers the SMART (State of Missouri Alcohol Responsibility Training) program as a free, accessible alternative.
SMART training can be completed online conveniently by alcohol servers and sellers to meet employer requirements and improve responsible alcohol service.
Online SMART Training Program
- Visit the official SMART program website.
- Register for the free online course designed for alcohol sellers and servers in Missouri.
- Complete the self-paced training, which takes approximately 1 to 1.25 hours.
- Study key topics including ID verification, Missouri alcohol laws, intoxication recognition, incident prevention, and how to safely refuse service.
- Pass the required final exam with a score of 70% or higher.
- If needed, retake the exam as many times as necessary (unlimited retakes).
- Upon passing, download or print your SMART certification card to provide proof to your employer.
Many employers also offer group training sessions using the SMART curriculum to certify their staff efficiently.
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Cost of TIPS Certification in Missouri
The SMART program, which serves as Missouri's alcohol server certification, is completely free of charge.
Missouri does not offer TIPS courses officially, so there are no associated costs for TIPS certification.
The certification obtained through SMART is valid for two years before renewal is needed.
What To Expect in the Missouri TIPS Training and Exam
Missouri's SMART training includes engaging content covering:
- ID checking and spotting fake IDs
- Missouri-specific alcohol laws
- Recognizing signs of intoxication
- Preventing alcohol-related incidents
- Proper ways to refuse service
The final exam is mandatory and consists of multiple-choice questions requiring a 70% passing score.
If you do not pass the exam, you may retake it an unlimited number of times until you succeed.
Renewal and Maintaining TIPS Certification
Missouri's SMART certification lasts for two years.
To maintain certification, you must complete the SMART training program again every two years before your certification expires.
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Who Needs a TIPS Certification in Missouri?
While TIPS certification is not required, many Missouri employers mandate alcohol server training.
The following roles typically need to be SMART-certified:
- Bartenders
- Servers
- Liquor store clerks
- Casino staff
- Sampling service employees
If you work in any role involving the sale or service of alcohol, obtaining this certification is highly recommended to comply with employer policies.
Benefits of Getting TIPS Certified in Missouri
Completing responsible alcohol training through Missouri's SMART program provides advantages such as:
- Improved knowledge of legal alcohol service requirements which helps reduce liability risks for both you and your employer.
- Enhanced ability to recognize intoxication and handle difficult situations effectively and safely.
- Increased employment opportunities, as many Missouri businesses require or prefer trained staff.
- Compliance with employer policies and state alcohol laws, which helps avoid penalties.
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Key Missouri Alcohol Laws Related to TIPS Certification
Understanding Missouri’s alcohol regulations is critical for anyone serving or selling alcohol:
- Legal Drinking Age: 21 years old.
- ID Checking: Required for all customers who appear under 21.
- Dram Shop Liability: Businesses may be held liable if alcohol is served to an intoxicated person who causes harm.
- Right to Refuse Service: Establishments have the legal right to refuse alcohol service to intoxicated or underage customers.
- Hours of Sale: Specific hours for alcohol sales are regulated locally; no statewide mandate on hours is available.
The SMART program covers all these laws and helps employees follow them correctly.
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