Here’s How To Renew Your ABC License in Tennessee

If you work in Tennessee's alcohol industry—whether as a bartender, server, business owner, or manager—keeping your ABC license current is crucial. Failure to renew your license on time can result in fines, disruptions in business operations, or even losing the ability to serve or sell alcohol legally.
Feb 4
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In Tennessee, different alcohol-related permits and licenses have specific renewal periods. For instance, TABC server permits last for five years, while liquor-by-the-drink and retail package store licenses typically require annual renewal. With regulations constantly evolving, understanding the renewal process is more important than ever.

This guide will walk you through the steps to renew your ABC license in Tennessee, addressing common challenges and providing practical solutions. Plus, we'll introduce the Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training—a crucial certification for those in the industry to ensure compliance and responsible alcohol service.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about renewing your ABC license in Tennessee.

Understand Tennessee’s ABC Licensing System

The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) regulates and enforces all alcohol laws statewide—from individual bartenders to large hospitality businesses. Every person or business that serves, sells, or manufactures alcohol must operate under one of the TABC’s license or permit categories.

There are two main licensing groups:

1. TABC Server Permits (for Individuals)

  • Who needs it: Bartenders, alcohol servers, and managers who sell or serve alcohol for on-premise consumption (bars, restaurants, clubs, hotels, and event venues).

  • Purpose: Confirms the individual has completed a TABC-approved alcohol awareness training course covering safe serving practices, age verification, intoxication prevention, and (as of 2025) sexual assault and human trafficking awareness.

  • Validity:

         Permits issued before January 1 2025 remain valid for five years.

         Permits issued or renewed on/after January 1 2025 are valid for two years only.

  • Renewal requirement: Must retake a TABC-approved training program before applying for renewal.

2. Liquor Licenses (for Businesses)

  • Who needs it: Businesses that sell or distribute alcoholic beverages—such as restaurants, hotels, retail package stores, and manufacturers.

  • Main license types:

    Liquor-by-the-Drink License     (for on-premise consumption)

    Retail Package Store License (for off-premise alcohol sales)

    Manufacturer, Wholesaler, or Caterer Licenses, among others.

  • Renewal cycle: Usually annual, with renewal applications processed through the TABC’s RLPS portal at rlps.tnabc.gov.

    Understanding which license category applies to you ensures you meet renewal requirements accurately—avoiding costly delays, fines, or suspension.


Tip: If you’re an individual bartender or server, your renewal process is completely separate from your employer’s liquor license renewal. Always maintain your own valid TABC Server Permit through a state-approved provider like the Certification Experts’ Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training.

Steps to Renew Your TABC Server Permit

Renewing your Tennessee Server Permit ensures continued compliance with state law and uninterrupted employment eligibility. Here’s a detailed walkthrough based on the latest 2025 TABC renewal policy.

1. Check Your Expiration Date

Log in to your TABC RLPS account and verify your permit’s expiration.

Remember:

  • Permits issued before 2025 remain valid for five years.

  • Permits renewed after 2025 will show a two-year validity period.


TABC recommends starting renewal 30–45 days before the expiration date.

2. Complete the Required Training

Before renewal, you must complete an approved Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training course.

The training ensures you stay updated on:

  • Current Tennessee alcohol laws and ID verification techniques

  • Prevention of over-service and intoxication

  • Dram Shop and liability laws

  • Sexual assault prevention, drink-spiking awareness, and human trafficking recognition (new for 2025)

You can complete this requirement conveniently online through the Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training by the Certification Experts. Once finished, your completion record is automatically uploaded to TABC’s system.

3. Submit Your Renewal Application Online

Visit the RLPS portal, log in, and choose Renew Server Permit.

Follow these steps:

  • Select your active permit record.

  • Upload or verify your latest training certificate.

  • Review personal details (name, contact info, employment status).

  • Certify that all information is accurate.


Double-check that your training completion is attached to the correct RLPS ID.

4. Pay the Renewal Fee

A $20 renewal fee is required for each permit cycle.
Payment is made directly through the RLPS portal using a credit or debit card.
Be sure to complete payment in full—partial payments or browser errors can delay processing.

5. Wait for Approval

Once your renewal application is submitted, TABC typically processes it within a few business days.
You’ll receive a notification email when your digital Server Permit is available for download.
Keep both a printed and digital copy while working. Employers must maintain a copy on file for compliance audits.

Reminder: There’s no grace period for expired permits—if yours lapses, you must complete the entire training and application process again before returning to alcohol service.

Steps to Renew a Business Liquor License

Tennessee businesses that serve or sell alcohol must keep their Liquor License current. Renewals are handled entirely online through the TABC RLPS system, but they require more documentation than individual permits.

1. Verify Your License Type

Determine which category your establishment falls under—renewal requirements vary:

  • Liquor-by-the-Drink (LBD) – for restaurants, bars, hotels, and venues selling alcohol for on-premise consumption.

  • Retail Package Store License – for businesses selling sealed containers for off-premise use.

  • Wholesaler, Manufacturer, or Caterer Licenses – for distribution or production.

If your business holds multiple licenses, each must be renewed individually.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Before logging in to renew, gather all necessary documentation, such as:

  • Valid business registration (Secretary of State certificate)

  • Local business or privilege tax receipt

  • Financial statements or compliance reports

  • Certificate of good standing from your local municipality

  • Copy of your existing license


If ownership, management, or business structure has changed, include updated supporting documents.

3. Submit Your Renewal Application

Log in to RLPS and choose the Business License Renewal option.

  • Confirm all business information is accurate and up to date.

  • Attach supporting documentation as PDFs.

  • Ensure all responsible persons (owners, officers, or partners) are listed correctly.

Applications missing key documentation are automatically returned for correction.

4. Pay the Renewal Fees

Liquor license fees vary by license type and business classification.
Typical fees include:

  • Liquor-by-the-Drink License: ranges from $650 to $1,200 per year, depending on seating capacity.

  • Retail Package Store License: around $850 annually, plus local fees.

Payment is made online through the RLPS portal—receipts should be saved for your records.

5. Schedule an Inspection (If Required)

The TABC may require a site inspection or compliance audit before renewal approval, particularly if your business:

  • Changed location or ownership,

  • Added a new service area (e.g., patio, rooftop, or event space), or

  • Previously received compliance citations.


Prepare your establishment to meet all on-premise service, age-verification, and record-keeping requirements.

6. Receive Approval and Display Your License

Once approved, download your renewed license and display it prominently near your bar or register area.
Keep a digital copy stored in your records for verification.

Failure to renew on time may result in temporary suspension, fines, or the need to reapply for a new license—delaying business operations.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process

  • Set Reminders: Mark your calendar at least 60 days before your license expires to start the renewal process early.

  • Keep Documents Organized: Maintain a folder with renewal paperwork, training certificates, and payment records.

  • Stay Updated on Regulations: Follow TABC updates to avoid compliance issues.

  • Take Advantage of Online Services: Use the TABC online portal for quick and easy renewals.

  • Complete Mandatory Training in Advance: Courses like Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training ensure compliance and avoid delays.

  • Budget for Renewal Fees: Plan ahead financially to cover renewal costs and avoid last-minute surprises.

  • Monitor Processing Times: Check with TABC on expected processing delays so you can renew proactively.

  • Seek Professional Help if Needed: Some businesses work with consultants to streamline the licensing process.

  • Train Employees on Compliance: Make sure your team understands alcohol laws to prevent violations and maintain a good standing with the TABC.

Key Challenges in TABC Renewal

  1. Navigating Renewal Requirements: Many professionals are unaware of the exact steps needed to renew their ABC license, leading to confusion and potential delays.

  2. Forgetting Renewal Deadlines: Licenses expire at different intervals—server permits last five years, while business liquor licenses are renewed annually—missing these deadlines can result in penalties.

  3. Compliance with Regulations: Regulations change over time, and staying updated with the latest requirements is crucial to maintain legal operations.

  4. Cost and Fees: Renewal fees vary depending on the license type, and budgeting for these costs in advance is important.

  5. Training and Certification: Completing mandatory alcohol awareness courses can be an overlooked step in the renewal process.

  6. Online vs. In-Person Renewal: Some individuals and businesses struggle to determine whether they should renew online or through in-person applications.

  7. Ensuring Proper Documentation: Submitting incomplete or incorrect paperwork can delay the renewal process.

  8. Unexpected Processing Delays: Due to the high volume of applications, the processing time for license renewals can take longer than expected.

  9. Changes in Licensing Laws: Tennessee’s alcohol laws and licensing requirements are subject to amendments, which can impact renewal processes.

Current Trends in Alcohol Licensing

  1. Digital Renewals: Many states, including Tennessee, are making the renewal process available online for convenience.

  2. Stricter Compliance Measures: Increased enforcement of alcohol service regulations means businesses and individuals must be extra diligent in maintaining valid licenses.

  3. Mandatory Training Programs: Courses like the Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training are being recommended or required to ensure compliance and responsible alcohol service.

  4. Evolving Alcohol Laws: Adjustments to state alcohol laws impact licensing requirements, requiring professionals to stay informed.

  5. Technology Integration: Some businesses are using automated systems to track license renewals and ensure compliance.

  6. Mobile-Friendly Applications: TABC has made efforts to improve accessibility by allowing mobile-friendly license renewal submissions.

  7. Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failing to renew on time can now result in higher fines and stricter enforcement actions.

Follow the Steps to Renew Your TABC License

Renewing your ABC license in Tennessee is a necessary step for anyone working in the alcohol industry, from bartenders and servers to business owners and managers. Missing a renewal deadline can result in penalties, lost business, or even legal consequences. By staying informed about the process, keeping track of deadlines, and completing necessary training courses, you can ensure compliance and continue serving alcohol without interruption.

One essential step to maintaining compliance is completing required alcohol awareness training. Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training by the Certification Experts provides the education needed to serve and sell alcohol responsibly. Investing in proper training not only helps with renewal but also ensures customer safety and legal compliance.

Stay proactive, renew on time, and continue providing top-tier service in Tennessee’s thriving alcohol industry!

Get Trained at Your Convenience and Get Certified in Tennessee

Obtaining your alcohol certification in Tennessee is a straightforward process, but it’s vital to approach it with the right tools and knowledge. Certification ensures that you, your team, and your business operate responsibly, protecting both patrons and profits.

By choosing a trusted training provider like the Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training by the Certification Experts, you’ll gain the confidence to meet state standards without unnecessary stress. From understanding legal requirements to maintaining compliance, this guide has equipped you with actionable steps to succeed.


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.