If you want to kick-off your career as a Bartender, you might be thinking about earning a TIPS certification. Earning this certification is a great first step when entering the field, as it demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and equips you with the necessary skills to create a safe and enjoyable environment for your customers.
This article will show you how to become TIPS certified, discuss its importance and answer other key questions about the certification process.
How To Get TIPS Certified
Obtaining a TIPS certification not only validates your commitment to responsible alcohol service but also aligns with the legal requirements in various jurisdictions. Many states mandate alcohol server training programs like TIPS to ensure public safety and compliance with local laws. Therefore, being TIPS certified can be a significant advantage in meeting these regulatory standards.
To become TIPS certified, you must complete a course tailored to your specific situation. TIPS offers different courses for each U.S. state and you need to take the one that is compliant with the state where you live and work. When you first visit the TIPS website, navigate to the section for your state. There, you’ll find the appropriate course to take.
It’s important to mention that not all TIPS courses are tailored to Bartenders. To become a TIPS-certified Bartender, you must take its on-premise course for your state. TIPS also offers off-premise courses for selling alcoholic beverages in liquor stores and specialized courses for individuals working in gambling and concession establishments.
Once you find the course suitable for your specific situation, you can complete TIPS training online. In its 40+ years of existence, TIPS has certified over 5.5 million alcohol servers across the U.S. and other countries.
The flexibility of online TIPS certification allows you to learn at your own pace, making it convenient for those balancing work and study. These online courses are designed to be interactive and engaging, ensuring that you grasp the essential concepts of responsible alcohol service effectively. The course typically lasts a few hours. After completing it, you must pass an exam to earn your TIPS certification. The program offers two exam attempts to ensure successful completion.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a TIPS certification card, which serves as tangible proof of your training. This certification is recognized nationwide, enhancing your credibility and employability in the hospitality industry. Alternatively, you can acquire a TIPS certification from bartending schools and other online bartending courses.
TIPS Certification Course Content
TIPS training courses are structured to teach you everything about responsible alcohol service. Since laws and regulations regarding alcohol service vary by state, a TIPS course specific to your state ensures you have up-to-date knowledge.
The curriculum also delves into the legal responsibilities of Bartenders, including the penalties associated with serving alcohol to underage or visibly intoxicated patrons. Understanding these legal aspects is crucial in mitigating risks and ensuring compliance with state and federal laws.
Furthermore, the course covers in detail how to identify minors attempting to enter a bar, prevent alcohol service to minors and recognize altered or fake IDs. These techniques help reduce liability risks for establishments.
A TIPS certification course will also teach you how to deal with intoxicated customers. Moreover, the training emphasizes the importance of documenting incidents involving alcohol service. Proper documentation can protect both the server and the establishment in case of legal disputes.
Through TIPS courses, you’ll not only gain the skills needed to comply with state laws but also learn how to create a safe and professional environment.
Additionally, TIPS certification can lead to potential discounts on liquor liability insurance for establishments, as many insurance companies recognize the value of certified staff in reducing risks associated with alcohol service.
Understanding TIPS Certification Costs and Renewal Process
Obtaining your TIPS certification involves certain fees and periodic renewals:
- Course Fees: The cost for TIPS certification courses varies depending on the provider and the specific course type. Generally, online courses range from $40 to $50.
- Certification Validity: TIPS certification is typically valid for three years. After this period, you will need to complete a recertification course to maintain your credentials.
Being aware of these aspects ensures you remain compliant with industry standards and continue to serve alcohol responsibly.
Which U.S. States Demand TIPS Certified Bartenders?
Every state in the U.S. has its own laws and regulations regarding alcohol service. While anyone can start working as a Bartender in some of them, others require individuals in this role to get a bartending license.
States in which this license is required don’t demand TIPS certification per se but since it’s compliant with each state’s system, earning it will grant you your license.
In other words, if you live in one of the states that require a bartending license, you can earn it by completing a TIPS course.
States with such requirements include:
| Alaska | California | Delware |
| Illinois | Indiana | Louisiana |
| Montana | Nevada | New Mexico |
| Oklahoma | Oregon | Pennsylvania |
| Rhode Island | Tennessee | Utah |
| Vermont | Washington | Wisconsin |
Additionally, seven states (Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Dakota and Wyoming) have county-level variations in their bartending license laws.
Alternative Alcohol Server Training Programs
While TIPS is a widely recognized program, other reputable alcohol server training certifications are available:
- ServSafe Alcohol Certification: Offered by the National Restaurant Association, this program provides comprehensive training on responsible alcohol service.
- ATAP (Alcohol Training Awareness Program): Required in certain states like New York, ATAP focuses on state-specific alcohol service laws and responsible practices.
Benefits of TIPS Certification for Bartenders
Earning a TIPS certification for Bartenders offers numerous benefits across the U.S. It is widely recognized as a form of professional development that adds value to your resume and opens up new job opportunities. TIPS training equips you with best practices for responsible alcohol service and teaches you how to handle alcohol-related situations effectively.
You’ll learn to recognize the early signs of intoxication and how to limit alcohol consumption when needed, ensuring a safer environment for everyone in the establishment. Additionally, a TIPS-certified bartender stays up-to-date with state laws and regulations for alcohol service, ensuring compliance.
In states where a bartending license is required, completing a TIPS course can earn you this license. Even in states without such requirements, having a TIPS certification can be advantageous. For example, both New York and Florida don’t require a bartending license but a TIPS certification is compliant with both of their locally-accepted certification programs.
The New York TIPS On Premise course will earn New York bartenders ATAP certification, while the Florida TIPS On Premise course is compliant with the state’s Responsible Vendor Act. Many establishments prefer hiring TIPS-certified bartenders because they are educated in responsible alcohol service, reducing liability risks. Both New York and Florida offer incentives to establishments that employ certified workers, making TIPS training an asset.
Additionally, TIPS certification can lead to potential discounts on liquor liability insurance for establishments, as many insurance companies recognize the value of certified staff in reducing risks associated with alcohol service.
Conclusion
Earning a TIPS certification is more than just a box to check—it’s your gateway to better opportunities, higher pay, and a safer work environment in the bartending industry. Whether you’re just starting or looking to elevate your career, this certification sets you apart, giving you the skills and confidence to handle any challenge behind the bar.
FAQs: How to Become TIPS Certified
The TIPS certification course usually takes a few hours to complete. Upon finishing the course, you’ll need to pass an exam, which you can take twice if necessary.
TIPS certification is not mandatory in all states, but it is often recommended or required for obtaining a bartending license in some regions. It is widely respected and can enhance your employability.
Yes. TIPS certification courses are available online, making it convenient to complete the training and become certified at your own pace.
TIPS certification is widely recognized for its comprehensive and interactive training. Unlike some programs that only focus on legal compliance, TIPS goes deeper by teaching practical skills like identifying intoxicated customers, handling difficult situations, and documenting incidents to protect Bartenders and establishments.
TIPS certification makes you a more attractive hire because it shows employers you’re trained in responsible alcohol service, which reduces liability risks for their business. Many establishments prefer or require TIPS-certified staff, giving you an edge over non-certified candidates. Additionally, your knowledge of safe practices can lead to better customer interactions, bigger tips, and more opportunities for career growth, such as promotions to supervisory roles.
Written by Mitko Terziev
With over eight years of experience in the field, Mitko is a seasoned content specialist who has penned thousands of articles covering a wide array of topics. Before writing, he spent a few months working as a Bartender in one of the best bars in his hometown. In his free time, Mitko enjoys immersing himself in the worlds of gaming and nature.
Reviewed by Marcy Miniano
Marcy is an editor and writer with a background in public relations and brand marketing. Throughout her nearly decade-long career, she has honed her skills in crafting content and helping build brands across various industries — including restaurant and hospitality, travel, tech, fashion and entertainment.
