Quick Answer: Yes — Tennessee requires on-premises alcohol servers and bartenders to hold a TABC server permit: complete a TABC-approved course ($45 with Certification Experts), your employer registers you, and permits issued on or after 1 January 2025 are valid for 2 years.
Tennessee Alcohol Server Quick Facts
The fastest and easiest way to get certified is by completing a
TABC-approved training course, such as our
Tennessee TABC server permit course. This online, state-approved course helps you earn your Tennessee Server Permit quickly and conveniently.
The TABC Server Permit Program is designed to promote safe and legal alcohol service throughout Tennessee. Anyone working in an establishment with a liquor-by-the-drink or on-premise consumption license is required to complete an approved alcohol server training class.
- Administered by: Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC)
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Type: On-Premise Server Permit (commonly known as the “Server Permit”)
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Fulfillment: Through a TABC-certified alcohol awareness program
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Portal: All applications and renewals are managed through the TABC RLPS Online Portal
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Grace Period: Employees have 61 days from the start of employment to obtain their permit
Certification Experts is a
TABC-approved provider, meaning your training automatically fulfills all official requirements.
Getting your Tennessee TABC Server Permit is simple once you understand the process. The entire system is managed through the TABC’s Regulatory Licensing and Permitting System (RLPS)—the official online portal used for all licenses, permits, and renewals. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you complete the process smoothly and avoid common application mistakes.
Before you can apply for a Server Permit, you must create an account in the
TABC RLPS Portal.
- Go to the official TABC RLPS website.
- Click on “Register for a New Account”.
- Use your full legal name as it appears on your government-issued photo ID—this is extremely important because your permit will be matched to your identity.
- Provide a valid email address that you can access regularly. All future notices, including renewal reminders and permit approvals, will be sent here.
- Once your account is created, you’ll receive a confirmation email from the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC).
Pro Tip: Keep your
RLPS username and password in a safe place. You’ll need them later to renew your permit, check your status, or apply for other alcohol-related licenses, such as a
Liquor-by-the-Drink or
On-Premise Consumption License.
Before submitting your server permit application, you must complete an official
TABC-approved alcohol awareness course.
The
Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training from the Certification Experts is a
state-approved program that fulfills this requirement.
Course Features:
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100% Online & Self-Paced: Train anytime from your computer, tablet, or phone.
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Mobile-Friendly Design: Learn on the go without downloading any software.
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Instant Certificate Download: Once you pass, you’ll receive your certificate immediately.
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Automatic Reporting to TABC: Your completion record is sent directly to the TABC via secure reporting integration.
The course covers everything you need to know about responsible alcohol service, identifying fake IDs, Tennessee liquor laws, and how to prevent over-service or sales to minors.
Pro Tip: Make sure the provider is listed on the official
TABC-approved training providers list before enrolling. Certification Experts is a recognized and
TABC-approved program, ensuring your training counts toward your permit application.
Once you’ve completed your training and passed the final exam, it’s time to officially apply for your
TABC Server Permit through the RLPS portal.
Here’s what to do:
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Log into your RLPS account.
- From your dashboard, select “Apply for a License or Permit” → “Server Permit (On-Premise Permit)”.
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Complete all required fields—including your personal information, employment details (if applicable), and training provider.
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Upload supporting documents:
- A clear copy of your government-issued photo ID
- Your training completion certificate (if required for verification)
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Pay the $20 application fee using a debit or credit card through the secure payment portal.
- Review all entered details carefully before submitting.
After submission, your application will enter a
review phase by the
Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Most applicants receive their official permit approval within
5–10 business days, depending on volume and verification.
Pro Tip: You can log into your
RLPS account anytime to check your application status or download your digital permit once it’s issued.
Once your application is approved:
- Your official TABC Server Permit will be available for download through your RLPS account.
- You can print a copy for your employer or save a digital version on your mobile device.
- Your permit will remain valid for two (2) years from the date of issuance.
Remember: You must always hold an active permit while serving or selling alcohol. If your permit expires, you’ll need to
reapply through RLPS and
retake a TABC-certified course.
- Grace Period: Remember, you have 61 days from your first day of employment to complete training and obtain your permit.
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Renewal: Start your renewal process before your current permit expires to avoid a lapse in authorization.
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Verification: Employers can verify permits directly through the TABC website using your RLPS number.
Start your certification today with
Certification Experts’ Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training—a
TABC-approved course trusted by Tennessee bartenders, servers, and restaurant staff statewide.
It’s fast, affordable, and designed to make your TABC permit application a smooth, stress-free experience.
The TABC issues one main class of Server Permit—the On-Premise Consumption Permit. This applies to employees serving or handling alcohol in bars, restaurants, and venues licensed for on-site alcohol consumption
- Class Duration: about 3 hours
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Passing Score: 70% or higher
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Permit Validity Period: 2 years (Tennessee ABC shortened the term from five years on 1 January 2025)
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Cost: Standard TABC application fee ($20) plus course fee
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Registration Process: Available through the RLPS tutorial page or the TABC website
Our
Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training fulfills the
Server Permit Course requirement and includes all topics covered in state-approved TABC materials.
Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria and understand Tennessee’s regulations:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must complete a TABC-certified alcohol server training course
- Must submit an application through the RLPS online portal
- Must not have a revoked permit or ownership interest in a wholesale, retail, or liquor-by-the-drink license
- Permits may be denied for convictions related to the sale of alcoholic beverages or other disqualifying offenses under the Fresh Start Act
- Permit holders must comply with all on-premise consumption license regulations
- Serving alcohol without a valid permit beyond the 61-day grace period is prohibited
For detailed policies, visit the
Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission’s official site.
Our Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training course is TABC-approved and trusted by thousands of servers and bartenders across the state.
- What is the grace period for getting a TABC Server Permit?
New employees have 61 days from their hire date to complete training and apply for the permit.
- How much does it cost to get a TABC Server Permit?
The TABC application fee is $20, plus your course fee. Certification Experts’ course is competitively priced and fully approved.
- How long is the TABC Server Permit valid?
The permit is valid for two (2) years from the date of issuance.
- Can I apply if I have a prior conviction?
The Fresh Start Act allows certain applicants with prior convictions to be reviewed individually. Some offenses related to alcohol sales may still disqualify you.
- How can I renew my Server Permit?
Renew your permit through your RLPS account before it expires, and complete a new certified course as required.
- What is the difference between a Server Permit and a Liquor-by-the-Drink License?
A Server Permit applies to individuals, while a Liquor-by-the-Drink License applies to the business or establishment serving alcohol.
Ready to get your Tennessee TABC Server Permit?
Enroll today in the
Tennessee Alcohol Awareness Training—a
TABC-approved course that satisfies all state requirements for bartenders, servers, and managers.
Start your certification today and serve responsibly across Tennessee!
Obtaining your certification in Tennessee can be a straightforward process, but it’s vital to approach it with the right tools and knowledge. TABC certification helps ensure that you and your business operate responsibly, protecting both you and your customers.
See below for more guides on certification in Tennessee.
Start your
state-approved certification journey today and secure your place as a responsible, compliant bartender, server, or business owner in Tennessee.
