A
Tennessee Alcohol Server Permit is a state-issued credential required for anyone who serves, sells, or dispenses alcohol in restaurants, bars, hotels, clubs, or similar establishments.
-
Required by law for all alcohol servers and bartenders
-
Issued through the TABC’s RLPS system
-
Valid statewide in Tennessee
-
Ensures knowledge of responsible service and legal compliance
You must have a valid permit if you work as a:
-
Bartender
-
Server (restaurant, hotel, club, or bar staff)
-
Manager overseeing alcohol service
-
Any employee directly involved in selling or dispensing alcohol
Employers can face fines and legal consequences if staff serve without valid permits.
To qualify for a permit, you must:
-
Be at least 18 years old (minimum age to bartend/serve in Tennessee)
-
Complete a TABC-approved training program (you can find us listed here)
-
Pass the final exam to demonstrate knowledge of Tennessee alcohol laws
-
Apply online through the TABC RLPS portal and pay the application fee
Remember: The
legal drinking age in Tennessee is 21, and it is strictly enforced.
Follow these steps:
-
Enroll in TABC-certified training
Complete an approved course such as Certification Experts’ Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training.
-
Pass the course exam
Training covers responsible service, ID verification, handling intoxicated patrons, and dram shop laws.
-
Apply online through TABC RLPS
Submit course completion details and pay the permit fee.
-
Receive your permit
Once approved, your permit will be valid across Tennessee.
- Current rule (2025 update): Permits are valid for 2 years (previously 5 years).
-
Renewal requires:
Completing a refresher training course
Submitting renewal application through TABC RLPS
-
Working with an expired permit is illegal — both you and your employer can face penalties.
- Legal compliance: Mandatory to work anywhere alcohol is served.
-
Career opportunities: Certified staff are more employable in Tennessee’s hospitality industry.
-
Risk reduction: Protects you and your employer from fines and liability.
-
Professional credibility: Shows you’re trained, responsible, and career-focused.
Our
Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training is:
-
TABC certified and officially approved in Tennessee
-
100% online and accessible anytime
-
Affordable and fast, designed for busy hospitality staff
-
Trusted by Tennessee employers to meet compliance requirements
- Minimum age to bartend/serve: 18 years old
-
Legal drinking age: 21 years old
-
Dram shop laws: Establishments can be liable if they serve:
A visibly intoxicated person who later causes injury or damage
A minor who then causes harm after consuming alcohol
| Requirement |
Tennessee Law |
| Minimum age to serve/bartend |
18 |
| Legal drinking age |
21 |
Permit required
|
Yes — all servers, bartenders, and alcohol handlers |
| Permit validity |
2 years (as of 2025)
|
| Approved training |
Must be TABC-certified (Certification Experts is approved)
|
Do servers need a permit to serve alcohol in Tennessee?
Yes. All bartenders and servers must complete TABC-approved training and obtain a Server Permit.
How old do you have to be to bartend in Tennessee?
At least 18 years old with a valid permit.
How long does a Tennessee Server Permit last?
2 years (updated from 5 years). Renewal is required before expiration.
Where do I apply for the permit?
Through the
TABC RLPS portal.
What happens if I work without a permit?
It’s illegal. Both the server and employer may face fines and legal penalties.
- Keep Your Permit Up-to-Date: Set a reminder to renew your permit before it expires.
- Know the Law: Stay informed on Tennessee alcohol laws to avoid legal issues.
- Be Responsible: Avoid over-serving customers and always check IDs.
- Take Advantage of Online Training: If time is an issue, opt for self-paced online courses.
- Encourage Your Team to Get Certified: If you’re a manager or owner, ensure all staff members have valid permits.
- Understand the Consequences: Fines, lawsuits, and job loss can result from serving alcohol irresponsibly.
- Practice Role-Playing: Many training courses offer scenarios to help employees practice handling real-world situations.
- Tennessee requires all bartenders and servers to hold a TABC-certified Alcohol Server Permit.
-
Minimum serving age: 18; drinking age: 21.
-
Permits are valid for 2 years and must be renewed.
-
Certification Experts provides state-approved training to get your permit fast and legally.
By choosing a state-approved provider like the
Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training by the Certification Experts, you’ll understand the legal requirements to maintaining compliance.
For more tips on alcohol handling, check the following:
Don’t wait too long—start your
state-approved certification journey today and secure your place as a responsible, compliant bartender, server, or business owner in Tennessee.
