How To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Texas: Full Guide

TIPS Certification in Texas: Key Takeaways

• The cost for TIPS certification online in Texas is $15, with the option for employers to cover this expense.
• TIPS certification is not legally required statewide in Texas, but many employers mandate it for alcohol service roles.
• The certification is valid for two years and requires passing an exam with a minimum score of 70%.

In Texas, while TIPS certification is not mandated statewide by law, many employers require bartenders, servers, and other alcohol-related positions to be certified. This ensures compliance with local policies and safer alcohol service.

This guide provides a clear breakdown of how to obtain TIPS certification in Texas, including where to apply, cost, training format, and renewal.

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Steps To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Texas

The TIPS certification in Texas is currently available through online training only. In-person classes are not offered, but group training sessions may be arranged via employers or certified instructors.

Online TIPS Certification

• Visit the official Texas TIPS course page: https://www.tipsalcohol.com/texas.html.
• Select the appropriate course option according to your role:
  • TIPS On-Premise – For bartenders, servers, and restaurant staff.
  • TIPS Off-Premise – For liquor store clerks and retail sellers.
  • TIPS Concessions – For stadium or event alcohol service staff.
  • TIPS Gaming – For casino and gaming staff.
• Register for the course and complete payment of the $15 fee (unless your employer covers the cost).
• Complete the self-paced online training, which takes approximately 3 hours.
• Pass the final exam with at least 70% to obtain certification.
• Receive your TIPS certification electronically via email.

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Cost of TIPS Certification in Texas

The online TIPS certification costs $15 in Texas. While in-person courses are not available statewide, some employers may offer group training sessions and cover the cost on behalf of employees.

Once obtained, the TIPS certification remains valid for two years, after which renewal is required.

What To Expect in the Texas TIPS Training and Exam

TIPS training in Texas covers critical skills such as ID verification and recognizing fake IDs, explaining state alcohol laws, identifying signs of intoxication, and learning how to prevent incidents and refuse service responsibly.

The final exam consists of multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 70% to pass. If you fail, you are allowed one additional free retake to pass the exam.

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Renewal and Maintaining TIPS Certification

TIPS certification in Texas must be renewed every two years to remain valid. To renew, you need to retake the course and pass the certification exam again.

Who Needs a TIPS Certification in Texas?

Although not legally mandated statewide, many Texas employers require TIPS certification for individuals in roles involving alcohol service or sales. Categories typically include:

• Bartenders
• Servers
• Liquor store clerks
• Casino staff
• Concession staff

If you work in any of these positions, your employer will likely require you to obtain and maintain TIPS certification.

Benefits of Getting TIPS Certified in Texas

Becoming TIPS certified benefits both employees and employers by enhancing responsible alcohol service skills, reducing the risk of liability for the business, and ensuring compliance with Texas alcohol regulations.

This certification strengthens your professional credentials for roles in hospitality and retail, making you a more valuable and trusted employee.

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Key Texas Alcohol Laws Related to TIPS Certification

Key laws and regulations relevant to TIPS-certified individuals in Texas include:

• Legal Drinking Age: 21 years old.
• ID Checking: Must check IDs for anyone under 21 years old to verify age.
• Dram Shop Liability: Establishments may be held liable for damages caused by intoxicated patrons they served.
• Right to Refuse Service: Businesses are legally permitted to refuse service to intoxicated or underage customers.

TIPS training helps employees comply with these laws to maintain safe and legal alcohol service practices.