Title 4 Alcohol Certification is the official alcohol law training program regulated by the
Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses & Control (DLLC). It is required or recommended depending on your role in an alcohol-serving establishment.
Arizona offers two types of certification:
- Basic Title 4 Certification: Recommended for bartenders, servers, clerks, and staff who serve, sell, or handle alcohol.
- Management Title 4 Certification: Legally required for owners, agents, and managers responsible for the operation of a licensed business.
Note: You must complete Basic training first before taking the Management Title 4 training. Also, it's sometimes called alcohol handler's card in Arizona.
Whether you're managing a liquor-licensed business or serving drinks on the floor, Arizona's Title 4 certification requirements vary based on your role but both legal compliance and employer expectations matter.
- Owners, licensees, and managers of bars, restaurants, stores, or any liquor-licensed business
- Agents listed on an establishment’s liquor license
These individuals must complete:
- Basic Title 4 Certification
- Management Title 4 Certification
- Bartenders
- Servers and waitstaff
- Store clerks and cashiers
- Security personnel
While not legally mandated, Basic Title 4 certification is widely expected by employers and insurers. Many businesses make it a requirement of employment to reduce risk and ensure responsible service.
To get certified, follow these steps to complete your Title 4 alcohol training online and receive your official certificate.
- Determine which certification you need
- Basic only? You’re likely a bartender or server
- Both Basic + Management? You’re a manager, agent, or owner
- Find a DLLC-approved provider
Use the official state list of approved trainers
- Register for the course
Cost ranges from $8.95 to $25
- Complete the online training
Learn about state liquor laws, checking IDs, refusal of service, and more
- Pass the exam
Most require 70–75% to pass, with retakes allowed
- Download and save your certificate
Submit it to your employer or keep it on file
- 100% online training and no in-person classes needed
- Finish in 2–3 hours from anywhere
- Affordable: Courses range from $8 to $25
- Download certificate immediately after passing
Valid for:
- 3 years (Basic)
- 5 years (Management)
Just make sure your training provider is DLLC-approved. For official providers, check the state-approved trainer list.
| Certification Type |
Who It’s For |
Required By Law? |
Validity |
| Basic Title 4 |
Servers, bartenders, clerks |
❌ No (but recommended) |
3 years |
| Management Title 4 |
Owners, managers, agents |
✅ Yes |
5 years |
If you’re a manager or owner, you
must take both courses. Basic is a
prerequisite for Management certification.
Whether you take Basic or Management Title 4 training, here are the core topics:
- Arizona liquor laws (ARS Title 4)
- How to recognize intoxicated patrons
- Proper ID checking and fake ID detection
- How to refuse service legally and safely
- Penalties for violations (civil and criminal)
- Dram Shop liability and risk reduction
Management-level training includes additional legal responsibilities related to licensing, recordkeeping, and business operations.
If you're brand-new to the alcohol service industry, our
Arizona Alcohol Awareness Training course is a smart first step:
- Understand Arizona liquor laws before diving into state-approved training
- Build confidence in ID verification and service responsibilities
- Gain a competitive edge with foundational knowledge employers value
Important: This course is not yet DLLC-approved and does not replace official Title 4 certification. It’s best used as a preparatory or supplementary training resource.
- Do I need Title 4 certification to bartend in Arizona?
Technically, no but most employers require Basic certification before hiring you.
- Can I take the Title 4 course online?
Yes. Just make sure the provider is on the DLLC-approved list.
- What happens if I only complete Basic but work as a manager?
That would be non-compliant. Managers must complete both Basic and Management certifications.
- How long do the certifications last?
Basic Title 4: 3 years
Management Title 4: 5 years
- Can I use Certification Experts’ course as official certification?
Not yet. It’s a supplemental resource, best used to prepare for official training.
Arizona’s Title 4 Alcohol Certification is more than a legal requirement, it’s a foundation for safe, responsible, and compliant alcohol service.
Whether you're a bartender starting your first job or a manager running a busy bar, knowing which Title 4 certification you need is essential to getting hired and staying compliant.
Want a head start?
