Tennessee ABC Commission (TABC): What Servers & Owners Need to Know
What Is the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission?
The TABC licenses and regulates the sale and service of alcohol across Tennessee. It issues liquor-by-the-drink licenses to venues and server permits to individual bartenders and servers, and it enforces Title 57 of the Tennessee Code.
Do Tennessee Servers Need a TABC Permit?
Yes. Anyone serving alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption in Tennessee must hold a valid server permit, obtained after completing an approved responsible-vendor training course. Certification Experts is state-approved for Tennessee alcohol server training — the online course takes about 3.5 hours, costs $30, and issues an instant digital certificate.
How Do I Contact the TABC?
Visit tn.gov/abc for license applications, permit lookups, and enforcement updates. Regional offices serve Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga.
How Long Does a Server Permit Last?
Tennessee server permits are valid for five years. Renew by retaking an approved course before your permit expires.
Related guides: TABC License Tennessee · Getting a TN ABC Server Permit