Are you ready to shake (or stir) things up behind the bar in Wisconsin? To serve drinks in the Badger State, you’ll need to obtain a bartending license. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process, covering the requirements, costs, and training needed to become a licensed bartender in Wisconsin.
Understanding the Wisconsin Bartending License Requirements
In Wisconsin, the Department of Revenue’s Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement (ATE) division is responsible for issuing bartender licenses. To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or have a valid work visa
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Not have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors
Types of Bartending Licenses in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers two types of bartender licenses:
- Bartender’s License: This license allows you to serve and sell alcohol in a licensed establishment.
- Operator’s License: This license is required for managers, owners, and operators of licensed establishments.
Step 1: Meet the Age and Education Requirements
To apply for a bartending license in Wisconsin, you must be at least 18 years old. While a high school diploma or equivalent is not required, having one may be beneficial when applying for jobs.
Step 2: Complete a Responsible Beverage Server (RBS) Training Course
Wisconsin law requires all bartenders to complete a Responsible Beverage Server (RBS) training course. These courses teach you how to serve alcohol responsibly, prevent underage drinking, and handle difficult situations. You can find a list of approved RBS training providers on the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s website.
RBS Training Course Topics
RBS training courses cover a range of topics, including:
- Wisconsin alcohol laws and regulations
- Signs of intoxication and how to handle intoxicated patrons
- How to check IDs and prevent underage drinking
- Strategies for preventing and responding to alcohol-related problems
Step 3: Apply for a Bartender’s License
Once you’ve completed your RBS training course, you can apply for a bartender’s license. You’ll need to submit the following:
- A completed application form (available on the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s website)
- A copy of your RBS training certificate
- A copy of your valid government-issued ID
- The required license fee (currently $20)
Step 4: Pass a Background Check
As part of the application process, you’ll need to undergo a background check. This will involve providing fingerprints and paying a fee (currently $20).
Step 5: Maintain Your License
To keep your bartender’s license active, you’ll need to:
- Complete a refresher RBS training course every two years
- Pay the required license renewal fee (currently $20)
- Notify the Wisconsin Department of Revenue of any changes to your address or employment status
Consequences of Not Maintaining Your License
Failure to maintain your license can result in fines, penalties, and even license revocation. It’s essential to stay on top of your license requirements to avoid any issues.
Additional Tips for Bartending in Wisconsin
- Familiarize yourself with Wisconsin alcohol laws and regulations. This will help you stay compliant and avoid any issues.
- Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills. As a bartender, you’ll be interacting with customers, colleagues, and law enforcement, so it’s essential to be able to communicate effectively.
- Consider obtaining a food safety certification. This will demonstrate your commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for your customers.
Wisconsin Bartending License Costs
Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with obtaining a bartending license in Wisconsin:
| Cost | Description |
| — | — |
| $20 | Bartender’s license application fee |
| $20 | RBS training course fee (varies by provider) |
| $20 | Background check fee |
| $20 | License renewal fee (every two years) |
Conclusion
Obtaining a bartending license in Wisconsin requires completing a Responsible Beverage Server training course, applying for a license, and passing a background check. By following these steps and maintaining your license, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career behind the bar in the Badger State. Remember to stay up-to-date on Wisconsin alcohol laws and regulations, develop strong communication skills, and consider obtaining a food safety certification to enhance your career prospects.
What are the requirements to get a bartending license in Wisconsin?
To get a bartending license in Wisconsin, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to complete a responsible beverage server training program approved by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. This program will teach you about the laws and regulations related to serving alcohol, as well as how to serve responsibly and prevent underage drinking.
In addition to completing the training program, you will also need to pass a certification exam. This exam will test your knowledge of the laws and regulations related to serving alcohol, as well as your ability to serve responsibly. Once you have passed the exam, you will be issued a certification card that is valid for three years.
How long does it take to get a bartending license in Wisconsin?
The length of time it takes to get a bartending license in Wisconsin can vary depending on the training program you choose and how quickly you complete the certification exam. Most training programs can be completed in a few hours, and the certification exam can be taken immediately after completing the program. If you pass the exam, you can expect to receive your certification card within a few days.
It’s worth noting that some training programs may offer online courses, which can be completed at your own pace. This can be a convenient option if you have a busy schedule or prefer to learn at home. However, you will still need to pass the certification exam in person.
How much does it cost to get a bartending license in Wisconsin?
The cost of getting a bartending license in Wisconsin can vary depending on the training program you choose. Most training programs cost between $10 and $30, and the certification exam is usually included in the cost of the program. Some programs may also offer additional fees for things like study materials or exam retakes.
It’s worth noting that some employers may cover the cost of the training program and certification exam for their employees. If you are already working in the service industry, it’s worth checking with your employer to see if they offer any reimbursement or sponsorship programs.
What is the responsible beverage server training program?
The responsible beverage server training program is a course that teaches you about the laws and regulations related to serving alcohol, as well as how to serve responsibly and prevent underage drinking. The program covers topics such as the effects of alcohol, how to identify intoxicated customers, and how to prevent underage drinking.
The program is usually taught by a certified instructor and includes a combination of lectures, videos, and interactive activities. The program is designed to be engaging and informative, and to provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to serve alcohol responsibly.
What is the certification exam like?
The certification exam is a multiple-choice test that covers the material taught in the responsible beverage server training program. The exam is usually 30-60 minutes long and consists of 20-30 questions. The questions are designed to test your knowledge of the laws and regulations related to serving alcohol, as well as your ability to serve responsibly.
To pass the exam, you will need to answer at least 70% of the questions correctly. If you fail the exam, you can retake it after a certain period of time. Some training programs may also offer study materials or practice exams to help you prepare for the certification exam.
How long is my bartending license valid for?
Your bartending license is valid for three years from the date of issuance. After three years, you will need to complete a renewal training program and pass a certification exam to renew your license. The renewal program is usually shorter than the initial training program and covers any changes to the laws and regulations related to serving alcohol.
It’s worth noting that you will need to keep your certification card with you at all times while working as a bartender. If you lose your card, you can contact the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to obtain a replacement.
Can I transfer my bartending license to another state?
Wisconsin has reciprocity agreements with some states, which means that you may be able to transfer your bartending license to another state. However, the requirements for transferring a license vary from state to state, so you will need to check with the state where you plan to work to see if your license is transferable.
Even if your license is transferable, you may still need to complete a certification exam or training program in the new state. It’s worth noting that some states may have different laws and regulations related to serving alcohol, so you will need to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations in the new state.