Training Alternative to ServSafe and TIPS Certification in Michigan

Thinking about working as a bartender, server, or alcohol delivery driver in Michigan? You’ve probably heard of TIPS® or ServSafe® Alcohol certification. While both are well-known, Michigan has its own rules: since 2001, the state has required alcohol servers, bartenders, and even delivery drivers to complete training that’s approved by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).
Sep 23
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Our Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training is designed as a flexible, affordable, and practical alternative to programs like ServSafe and TIPS. While our course is yet to receive MLCC recognition, it provides the same essential knowledge and prepares you for safe, legal alcohol service. In this guide, we’ll break down what Michigan law requires, how TIPS and ServSafe fit into the picture, and why Certification Experts’ training is a strong option for aspiring bartenders, servers, and delivery drivers.

Why Look for a ServSafe or TIPS Alternative in Michigan?

Many workers in the hospitality industry want training that’s:

  • Affordable and doesn’t cost $40–$60.
  • Accessible online and easy to complete quickly.

  • Focused on Michigan law, not just general alcohol service rules.

While TIPS is MLCC-approved and ServSafe is nationally recognized, neither option is always the most convenient or affordable for Michigan workers. Our Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training is built as a state-focused alternative, designed to align with MLCC standards while providing flexibility and value.

Do You Need a Bartending License in Michigan?

The short answer: No. Michigan does not issue or require a formal state bartending license.

Instead, state law requires that anyone who serves, sells, or delivers alcohol complete MLCC-approved alcohol server training. This includes:

  • Bartenders

  • Servers and waitstaff

  • Restaurant and bar managers

  • Alcohol delivery drivers (DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, etc.)

Without completing an approved training program, you cannot legally serve or sell alcohol in Michigan. 

Michigan Alcohol Server Training Requirements

Since 2001, the MLCC has mandated that all alcohol servers and bartenders complete training through an approved provider.

What the training covers:
  • Michigan alcohol service laws.
  • How to properly check IDs and spot fake IDs.
  • How to recognize signs of intoxication.
  • When and how to refuse service.
  • Employer liability and legal responsibilities.

Who must complete it:
  • Bartenders in bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and hotels.
  • Servers and waitstaff in restaurants and cafes.
  • Managers and supervisors overseeing alcohol service.
  • Delivery drivers delivering alcohol to customers’ homes.

Minimum Age to Serve Alcohol in Michigan

Age matters when it comes to alcohol service:

  • 18 years old → You may serve alcohol in Michigan with proper training and supervision.

  • 21 years old → Required to bartend or to serve independently in many bar environments.

This age distinction is important: you can start working in restaurants as a server at 18, but full bartending roles typically require you to be 21.

TIPS Certification in Michigan

TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS®) is one of the programs that has been officially approved by the MLCC since 2014. Completing TIPS training meets the state’s legal requirements, and it’s widely accepted by employers across Michigan.

  • TIPS is offered online and in-person.

  • Courses typically cost $40–$50.

  • Certification is valid for three years.

TIPS is a valid path to compliance — BUT it’s not the only option.

ServSafe Alcohol Certification in Michigan

ServSafe® Alcohol is a nationally recognized training program, but in Michigan its status is a little different:

  • Some employers accept ServSafe Alcohol certification.

  • Its direct MLCC approval is not as clearly defined as TIPS.

  • Always confirm acceptance with your employer or check the MLCC provider list.

ServSafe is often bundled with food safety training for restaurant managers, which is why it’s common in Michigan’s hospitality industry. However, for alcohol-specific certification, workers often turn to either TIPS or another MLCC-approved program.

Certification Experts: Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training

Here’s where Certification Experts comes in.

Our Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training is designed as a modern, affordable, and flexible alternative to both TIPS and ServSafe.

  • Pending MLCC approval → Once finalized, it will count as an official certification option.

  • Practical and convenient → 100% online, self-paced, mobile-friendly.

  • Affordable → Lower cost than many traditional options.

  • Comprehensive → Covers Michigan-specific alcohol laws, liability, and responsible service practices.

Transparency disclaimer

We want to be clear: until official MLCC approval is finalized, our training does not replace the mandatory state requirement. For legal compliance right now, you must complete an MLCC-approved course (such as TIPS).

That said, our training is an excellent preparatory program and a future-approved alternative once accreditation is secured.

Alcohol Delivery Drivers: Certification in Michigan

Since alcohol delivery has expanded through DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and similar apps, Michigan requires delivery drivers who transport alcohol to complete MLCC-approved training.

Why?
  • To verify customer age properly.

  • To refuse delivery if the recipient is underage or intoxicated.

  • To comply with Michigan’s alcohol delivery regulations.

Our National Alcohol Delivery Training Certification can serve as valuable supplemental training for delivery drivers — but, again, MLCC-approved certification is legally required in Michigan.

Costs of Training in Michigan

When comparing programs, here’s what you can expect:

  • TIPS certification: ~$40–$50, valid for three years.

  • ServSafe Alcohol: ~$40–$60, depending on the provider.

  • MLCC-approved courses (various providers): $12–$30 on average.

  • Certification Experts' Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training: Priced competitively and designed to be more affordable while still comprehensive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How much does it cost to get TIPS certified in Michigan?
    Typically between $40–$50. Prices vary depending on the provider and format.

  • Are TIPS and ServSafe the same?
    No. TIPS is an MLCC-approved alcohol training program. ServSafe is nationally recognized but not always directly MLCC-approved in Michigan. Some employers accept it, but always verify.

  • Is Certification Experts’ Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training approved?
    Not yet. Our course is pending MLCC approval. Until then, it’s a strong alternative and preparatory program that aligns with Michigan’s requirements.

  • Do alcohol delivery drivers need certification in Michigan?
    Yes. Delivery drivers must complete MLCC-approved training to legally deliver alcohol to customers.

  • Is there a bartending license in Michigan?
    No. Michigan does not issue a bartending license. Instead, servers and bartenders must complete MLCC-approved alcohol server training.

Get Trained and Certified in Michigan Today

In Michigan, alcohol service laws are clear: MLCC-approved training is mandatory for bartenders, servers, managers, and delivery drivers. While TIPS is one of the approved programs and ServSafe is often accepted, the Certification Experts’ Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training offers a practical, affordable, and future-approved alternative.

Our course is currently pending MLCC approval, but it’s already designed to meet the same standards and prepare workers for compliance. By enrolling now, you’ll gain valuable skills, stay ahead of the curve, and be ready the moment approval is finalized.

Whether you’re seeking convenience, affordability, or specialized training in Michigan to be a bartender or an alcohol server, we are here to help. With the Michigan Alcohol Awareness Training, you can gain the skills and certification needed to provide safe and responsible alcohol service as a bartender or as an alcohol server (or driver)!


Ready to enhance your skills and earn your certification? Explore Certification Experts’ offerings today and take the next step in your career.