How Old Do You Have to Be to Serve or Bartend in Delaware? How to Get Certification?

If you’re planning to start working as a bartender, alcohol server, or seller in Delaware, understanding the state’s age requirements and training laws is essential. Delaware has clear regulations about who can legally serve or sell alcohol, what certification is required, and how to stay compliant under the Trained Alcoholic Beverage Server Program (TABSP) governed by the Delaware Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement (DATE).

Aug 27

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The legal drinking age in Delaware is 21, as established by state law. However, individuals 18 years or older can work as servers, sellers, or bartenders in establishments licensed to sell alcohol.

That means if you’re 18, you can legally:

Serve alcohol to customers in a restaurant or bar
Sell alcohol at a licensed retail store
Work as a bartender, provided your employer allows it

However, there are restrictions. Minors under 18 are not allowed to handle or serve alcohol under any circumstances, and individuals under 21 cannot consume alcohol—even if they are legally permitted to serve it.

The Delaware Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement (DATE) oversees the TABSP, ensuring that establishments comply with mandatory training rules.

Employers are responsible for confirming that all staff members complete an approved course within the required time frame.

Certification Validity:

Once you complete a state-approved training program, your certification remains valid for four years, after which you must retake the course to renew it.

Penalty for Noncompliance:

Serving alcohol without valid certification can result in fines for both the employee and the establishment, and repeat violations can lead to license suspension.

Responsible beverage service protects both businesses and communities. Delaware’s Dram Shop laws hold establishments and servers liable if they serve alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated persons who later cause harm or damage.

That’s why proper training isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal and ethical necessity. Through mandatory certification, the state aims to:

Reduce alcohol-related incidents and DUIs
Promote public safety
Protect businesses from liability risks
Encourage a culture of responsible serving

Employers often receive insurance discounts for maintaining a fully certified staff, further incentivizing compliance.

At Certification Experts, we offer the Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training course. While this training is not yet state-approved by the Delaware Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement (DATE) under TABSP, it provides valuable supplemental education that complements the official state certification.

Here’s What Our Course Offers:

Comprehensive lessons on responsible alcohol service
Real-world strategies for safe serving practices
Awareness on over-service, ID verification, and intoxication management
Insights into state-level compliance expectations

Our course does not replace Delaware’s mandatory server training. Instead, it serves as preparatory or supplementary education—ideal for those seeking to strengthen their understanding before completing the state-approved program.

What is the legal age to serve alcohol in Delaware?
You must be at least 18 years old to serve, sell, or bartend alcohol in Delaware.
Is alcohol server training mandatory in Delaware?
Yes. The Trained Alcoholic Beverage Server Program (TABSP) requires all servers and bartenders to complete a state-approved training course.
How long is my certification valid?
Certification is valid for four years. After that, you must retake the training to stay compliant.
Can minors work in restaurants that serve alcohol?
Yes, but minors under 18 cannot handle or serve alcohol—they can only perform non-alcohol-related duties.
What happens if I serve alcohol without valid certification?
Both you and your employer may face fines or other penalties, including possible suspension of the establishment’s liquor license.
Is your Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training state-approved?
Not yet. However, it’s an excellent supplementary program that helps prepare individuals for the state-approved TABSP course.

Working in Delaware’s hospitality industry can be rewarding, but it’s crucial to follow the state’s alcohol laws and training requirements.

To recap:

You must be at least 18 years old to serve or bartend alcohol in Delaware.
You’re required to complete a state-approved alcohol server training program within the mandated timeframe.
You can also enhance your readiness and professional knowledge by taking supplemental training such as the Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training by the Certification Experts.

By combining official certification with advanced alcohol awareness training, you’ll stand out to employers, stay compliant, and create safer environments for your customers and community.