Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Classes

Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Class – Responsible Vendor Program

The Responsible Vendor program in Louisiana was started in 1997 and has been a very successful effort in terms of increasing the safety of serving alcohol and tobacco products in Louisiana.

The program requires that any person serving alcohol or tobacco products in Louisiana receive and complete a training course to obtain an RV Server Permit within 45 days of their hire. This rule covers anyone who deals with customers who are purchasing alcohol or tobacco products in Louisiana. The Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) allows alcohol training through the use of online courses as well as in person training. Alcohol server training is required in the State of Louisiana for any employee of a vendor who is authorized to sell alcohol and tobacco products in the normal course of their business. The alcohol sales training program must be completed within 45 days of their hire date. The RV Class will include a final exam for the alcohol seller and, according to Louisiana law, this ATC training must be approved by the Louisiana ATC and provided by an authorized vendor. The certification is valid for four years and must be renewed to maintain compliance.

The program is governed and monitored by the Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC). The retail locations at which licensed servers are employed are required to keep employment records on site for inspection by ATC Enforcement Agents. ATC Enforcement Agents also routinely check the compliance of licensed vendors and their servers. Servers found to sell or serve alcohol/tobacco products in violation of Louisiana can be held liable in criminal or civil court depending on the violation. ATC Agents have begun issuing administrative citations directly to RV Servers for violations of Louisiana Title 26 violations.

The ATC also governs the providers who are authorized to provide training and certification in this program. A valid certificate can only be issued by a Louisiana ATC Authorized Vendor. The ATC publishes a list of authorized providers, which can be found here.

There are several companies advertising online that offer deeply discounted certification courses for the Louisiana ATC but are not authorized. It is your responsibility to make sure that the course you are taking is valid and accepted by the ATC.

Additionally, local town, city and parish ordinances may also govern the issuance and management of permits to serve alcohol and tobacco products.

Course Content

The content of the Louisiana responsible vendor training course is similar for all providers and a listing of the topics required to be taught is provided by the Louisiana ATC. The topics that will be covered are:

Responsible Vendor Law
Vendor Responsibilities
Server and Security Personnel Responsibilities
Louisiana Laws on Serving Alcohol and Tobacco Products
Louisiana Laws on Serving Alcohol: Identification
Sale and Service of Alcohol
Alcohol Safety Training
How to Detect False Identification
ATC Regulation of Responsible Alcohol and Tobacco Sales to Minors
Effects of Alcohol on Your Body
Blood Alcohol Concentration
Alcohol and Medication
Alcohol and Driving Motor Vehicles
Sale of Alcohol to Intoxicated Persons
Pathways of Tobacco
Effects of Tobacco on Your Body
Tobacco Sales: Signage and Vending Machine Requirements

You will also learn:

The responsibilities of a Responsible Vendor business owner
The responsibilities of an alcohol server
The responsibilities of security
The appropriate age to purchase alcohol in Louisiana
The appropriate age to purchase tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor products in Louisiana
What types of identification customers can show to purchase alcohol/tobacco products
The effects of alcohol on the body and with medications
Information on drinking while driving

Louisiana Responsible Vendor Law

The server training courses shall include but not be limited to the following subject areas:

Classification of alcohol as a depressant and its effect on the human body, particularly on the ability to drive a motor vehicle
Effects of alcohol when taken with commonly used prescription and nonprescription drugs
Absorption rate, as well as the rate at which the human body can dispose of alcohol and how food affects the absorption rate
Methods of identifying and dealing with underage and intoxicated persons, including strategies for delaying and denying sales and service to intoxicated and underage persons
State laws and regulations regarding the sale and service of alcoholic beverages for consumption on and off premises
Parish and municipal ordinances and regulations, including but not limited to the hours of operation, noise, litter and other odrinances that affect the sale and service of alcoholic beverages for consumption on and off premises
State and federal laws and regulations related to the lawful age to purchase tobacco products and age verification procedures and requirements
The health risks and consequences associated with the consumption of tobacco products including but not limited to their addictive nature
For security personnel, the handling of disruptive customers and customer altercations

A server or security personnel who violates alcohol or tobacco server law is subject to all of the following penalties:

Suspension or revocation of their permit
Monetary fine
Criminal citations

A vendor who sells or serves to minors will not have its alcohol or tobacco permit revoked in the following instances:

On a first sale of an alcoholic beverage by any server or security personnel to an underage or intoxicated person or the first illegal sale or service of a tobacco product by any server or security personnel to an underage person in any twelve month period
On the first citation for consumption by a customer of alcoholic beverages on the premises of a Class “B” vendor in any twelve month period, unless the vendor had knowledge of the violation, should have known about such violation, or participated in or committed such violation

A vendor may not use as a defense the fact that he was absent from the licensed premises at the time a violation occurred if the violations are flagrant, persistent, repeated, or recurring.

ATC takes into consideration compliance with the responsible vendor program and other methods taken by the business owners to prevent the sale of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products to persons under their respective legal ages.

Responsible Vendor Server Responsibilities

Q: I am one of the vendors defined in the program. What are my responsibilities?

A: As a Responsible Vendor, you must do all of the following to maintain your Responsible Vendor certification:

Provide ATC with a completed affidavit
Require all servers and security personnel to attend an approved server or security personnel training course within 45 days of the first day of employment. Server permits are valid for four years. You must ensure that all servers and security personnel attend refresher courses every four years
Pay an annual fee of $50 per licensed establishment holding a Class A-General, Class A-Restaurant, Class B or Class C-Retail permit
- This fee is assessed on all new and all renewal applications for retail dealers of alcoholic beverages and/or tobacco products
- The fee funds the development and administration of the Responsible Vendor program
Keep the handbook current (You may request updates from ATC)
Provide new employees already Responsible Vendor certified with the rules and regulations applicable in the parish or municipality of your establishment’s location
Maintain server and security personnel training records, which must include the following information for all servers and security personnel:
- Name of server
- Date of birth
- Social Security number
- Date of hire
Keep a copy of the above server/security personnel records at your licensed premise at all times for inspection by ATC agents or other peace officers.
Post signs on the licensed premise informing customers of your policy against selling alcohol and/or tobacco products to underage persons

Server and Security Personnel Responsibilities

Q: I am employed as a server or as security for a vendor. What are my responsibilities under this program?

A: Servers and security personnel have the following responsibilities under the Louisiana Responsible Vendor program:

Complete an approved responsible vendor training course within 45 days of employment. Get the training and obtain your Louisiana Responsible Vendor Certification (all servers in Louisiana who are in involved in the sales of alcohol beverages). You may complete your certification online.
- Your RV card will be available on the ATC website 7-10 days after completion of the course. You may print/download your RV certificate on the ATC website
Make your permit available for inspection immediately if asked by an ATC agent or other peace officer
Keep your Responsible Vendor server certification current
- Your Responsible Vendor permit will expire on the last day of the month FOUR years after the month that you completed the Responsible Vendor course.
- To renew, attend and pass an approved Responsible Vendor course.

Serving Alcohol and Tobacco: Identification

Forms of acceptable identification in Louisiana

Customers must show one of the following when asked to present identification for service:
- State issued driver’s license from Louisiana or another state (including duplicates)
- Special identification card from Louisiana or another state
- Passport or visa issued by the federal government or another country or nation
- Military or federal ID issued by the federal government

All of the above forms of identification must be current and valid and must include
- A picture of the person presenting the ID
- Date of birth
The above ID are not valid if they are:
- Defaced
- Expired
- Altered

Tips for Checking ID

Identification policies should be established to decrease the chances that a minor will be served alcohol or tobacco. These policies should include:

Refusing to sell to persons without a valid ID.
Following set procedure when checking each ID:
- Checking the expiration date of the ID;
- Checking the birth date;
- Checking the date the ID was issued;
- Checking the photo or resemblance to the buyer; and
- Checking the ID of everyone at the bar or counter to make sure everyone complies with the age restrictions.

Studies have shown that younger servers are less inclined to check identification and more likely to serve underage persons. Minimum age of seller policies will help reduce the likelihood that underage persons will obtain alcohol or tobacco. Louisiana liquor laws ensure responsible alcohol service through the Louisiana RV program.

Serving Alcohol and Tobacco: Digital Identification

The Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) offers the following guidelines when accepting electronic identification for the purchase of alcohol and/or tobacco products:

1.LA Wallet is the ONLY ACCEPTABLE form of electronic identification.

2.It is at the discretion of each business whether they will accept the digital ID.

3.Businesses required by ATC to utilize ID scanners must still request a physical ID if scanners are unable to read the digital ID.

4. If the person accepting the digital ID is unable to read it, it will be as if the licensee did not present a driver’s license or ID at all.

5.All other rules and guidelines still apply when ensuring an individual is of legal age to purchase and/or consume alcohol and tobacco products.

Louisiana office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control – Regulation of Alcohol and Tobacco Sales to Minors

Alcohol use by young people is the most serious drug problem facing our nation and our state. Alcohol kills more young people than all illicit drugs combined, is a factor in the three leading causes of death among 15-24 year olds and is a gateway drug to other drugs.3

ATC is committed to preventing underage access to alcohol and tobacco products. ATC enforces the prohibition against selling alcohol to minors by frequently conducting compliance checks. A compliance check is an unannounced inspection by ATC agents to determine if an establishment, employees, and customers are complying with alcohol and tobacco laws.

There are many mechanisms by which an establishment can be selected for a compliance check. The most common method is being selected in a random sample of all permit holders. Another way establishments are selected is in response to complaints received by ATC concerning alleged illegal activity.

If a business or its employee fails a compliance check, the business or employee will be issued a citation

by an agent. The citation indicates the date and time of the offense, who committed the violation, and the date on which a hearing will be set.

At least 10 days prior to the hearing, you will receive a notice of fine or summons. The notice will direct you to either pay a fine prior to the hearing or appear and contest the fine. When you “contest” a fine, it means you disagree with the issuance of the citation and want to challenge the penalty. When you pay the fine prior to the hearing, you are admitting guilt and agreeing to the penalty.

It is not a defense to a citation that a vendor was absent from the licensed premises at the time that a violation occurred, if the violation was flagrant, persistent, repeated, or recurring.

For detailed Louisiana alcohol-related accidents and injury statistics, please visit http://datareports.lsu.edu/.

Sale of Alcohol to Intoxicated Persons

Remember: Alcohol seller-servers cannot sell or serve alcohol to an intoxicated person. As a server, you should always assess the nature and magnitude of a person’s condition prior to selling to or serving that person. Consequently, server intervention could play a very important role in reducing drunk-driving accidents. While the liability for injuries caused by driving under the influence of alcohol lies primarily with intoxicated drivers themselves, that is not the case for serving alcohol to minors. You may be responsible for injuries caused by a minor to whom you serve alcohol illegally.

The following are behavioral signs of intoxication that servers should observe when determining whether to continue to serve an individual:

1. Lessened inhibitions (increased lack of restraint in social settings)

2. Impaired judgment

3. Slow reactions

4. Decreased coordination

5. You may also notice slurred speech, glassy eyes, strong smell of alcohol, and exaggerated emotional outbursts. They may also have trouble walking or making decisions, and may annoy other customers.

If you have any doubts about whether a person is intoxicated you must refuse to sell alcohol to them.

Refusing Entry

Intoxicated persons should not be allowed to enter your establishment under any circumstances, short of physical confrontation. If a customer insists on re-entry and the door person feels a physical confrontation will ensue, admit the party and either call the police or security, whichever is applicable.

Terminating Service

An employee who thinks a customer is intoxicated should cease serving the customer immediately and inform the manager. Company policy should dictate whether an employee is permitted to terminate service or if this decision is a management function.

If the decision to cease service to a customer is an employee function and the customer in question attempts to order more drinks, the employee should acknowledge the order, but immediately get the manager to visit the table. The manager should introduce himself, with title, and be friendly, yet firm. When the decision is made to cease serving the customer, managers should back up the decision of their staff members, regardless of who the customer might be.

When terminating service, staff or management should always remain calm. Avoid antagonizing the customer with statements like, “You’ve had way too much to drink,” or, worse, “I can’t serve you – you’re drunk.” Instead, let the customer know that your job and license would be at risk if you served another drink and that you are doing this for his own safety.

When dealing with a person who is “out of control,” the psychological message to give the customer is one of control. If the customer becomes offended or argumentative, don’t attempt to reason with him. If the customer becomes belligerent or physically threatening, get assistance from other staff or security personnel.

FAQs

Q: Who is required to have a responsible vendor permit?

Any employee of an alcoholic beverage or tobacco dealer who is authorized to sell or serve alcoholic beverages or tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, or vapor products or who deals with customers who purchase or consume alcoholic beverages or tobacco products must obtain a responsible vendor permit within 45 days of employment.

Q: Is the owner of an alcoholic beverage or tobacco outlet required to have a responsible vendor permit?

No, owners are not required to obtain a responsible vendor permit. However, owners who sell or serve alcoholic beverages or tobacco products to persons under the legal age face maximum penalties.

Q: Where can I take a responsible vendor course?

A: Responsible vendor courses are provided across the state at class room locations and are also available online. Upon completion of an online course, you should be able to print your temporary certificate.

Q: How/where do I obtain my responsible vendor permit?

A: Responsible vendor permits are available on the ATC website under “permits” then “responsible vendor” then “print/download your RV permit”

Q: How long is my responsible vendor permit good for?

A: Responsible vendor permits expire every four years on the last day of the month in which you took the responsible vendor course.

Q: I have a Louisiana responsible vendor card. Do I need a Parish card?

A: Any vendor or server subject to a local ordinance requiring participation by the vendor or its employees in a server or security personnel training or licensing program shall be exempt from the local server training and licensing regulation if the vendor is certified as a responsible vendor under the provisions of the State law. However, this does not apply to any local seller or server licensing regulations or ordinances that were in effect on June 1, 1997. Please check with your local licensing authority for additional information.

Q: If I send my employees to a responsible vendor class and they still sell to minors, am I responsible?

A: In this scenario, the business would receive a warning for the first violation. The business would receive a citation for any additional violations within a three year period. However, when assessing penalties to permit holders, ATC takes into consideration compliance with the responsible vendor program and other methods taken by business owners to prevent the sale of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products to person under the legal drinking age.

Q: If I pay for my employees to attend a responsible vendor class, do their permits belong to me?

A: No, responsible vendor permits belong to the servers who took the class.

Q: How long do my employees have to obtain a responsible vendor server or security personnel permit?

A: Within 45 days of commencement of employment.

Alcohol and Tobacco Class Online

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Alcohol and Tobacco Class Online

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Introduction to The Responsible Vendor Program

Since its creation in 1997, the Louisiana Responsible Vendor Program has trained and permitted thousands of servers in the state of Louisiana. The Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) licenses individuals from all three sections of the RV Program (Providers, Trainers and Servers). The three sections of the RV Program encompass the entire process of becoming a server in Louisiana. RV Providers create training programs to facilitate RV Program education through the use of licensed RV Trainers. By making RV Classes available on a regular basis, these RV Providers have successfully facilitated the education and training for the thousands of bartenders, waitresses, sales clerks and other personnel that have been licensed as RV Servers to sell alcohol and tobacco throughout the state. Many call this certification the Louisiana Bar Card.

The program is governed and monitored by the Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC). The retail locations at which licensed servers are employed are required to keep employment records on site for inspection by ATC Enforcement Agents. ATC Enforcement Agents also routinely check the compliance of licensed vendors and their servers. Servers found to sell or serve alcohol/tobacco products in violation of Louisiana law can be held liable in criminal or civil court depending on the violation. ATC Agents have begun issuing administrative citations directly to RV Servers for violations of Louisiana Title 26 violations.

Additionally, local town, city and parish ordinances may also govern the issuance and management of permits to serve alcohol and tobacco products.

Course Content

The content of the course is similar for all providers and a listing of the topics required to be taught is provided by the Louisiana ATC. The topics that will be covered are:

Responsible Vendor Law
Vendor Responsibilities
Server and Security Personnel Responsibilities
Louisiana Laws on Serving Alcohol and Tobacco Products
Louisiana Laws on Serving Alcohol: Identification
How to Detect False Identification
ATC Regulation of Alcohol and Tobacco Sales to Minors
Effects of Alcohol on Your Body
Blood Alcohol Concentration
Alcohol and Medication
Alcohol and Driving Motor Vehicles
Sale of Alcohol to Intoxicated Persons
Pathways of Tobacco
Effects of Tobacco on Your Body
Tobacco Sales: Signage and Vending Machine Requirements

You will also learn:

The responsibilities of a Responsible Vendor business owner
The responsibilities of a server
The responsibilities of security
The appropriate age to purchase alcohol in Louisiana
The appropriate age to purchase tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor products in Louisiana
What types of identification customers can show to purchase alcohol/tobacco products
The effects of alcohol on the body and with medications
Information on drinking while driving

Responsible Vendor Law

The server training courses shall include but not be limited to the following subject areas:

Classification of alcohol as a depressant and its effect on the human body, particularly on the ability to drive a motor vehicle
Effects of alcohol when taken with commonly used prescription and nonprescription drugs
Absorption rate, as well as the rate at which the human body can dispose of alcohol and how food affects the absorption rate
Methods of identifying and dealing with underage and intoxicated persons, including strategies for delaying and denying sales and service to intoxicated and underage persons
State laws and regulations regarding the sale and service of alcoholic beverages for consumption on and off premises
Parish and municipal ordinances and regulations, including but not limited to the hours of operation, noise, litter and other odrinances that affect the sale and service of alcoholic beverages for consumption on and off premises
State and federal laws and regulations related to the lawful age to purchase tobacco products and age verification procedures and requirements
The health risks and consequences associated with the consumption of tobacco products including but not limited to their addictive nature
For security personnel, the handling of disruptive customers and customer altercations

A server or security personnel who violates alcohol or tobacco server law is subject to all of the following penalties:

Suspension or revocation of their permit
Monetary fine
Criminal citations

A vendor who sells or serves to minors will not have its alcohol or tobacco permit revoked in the following instances:

On a first sale of an alcoholic beverage by any server or security personnel to an underage or intoxicated person or the first illegal sale or service of a tobacco product by any server or security personnel to an underage person in any twelve month period
On the first citation for consumption by a customer of alcoholic beverages on the premises of a Class “B” vendor in any twelve month period, unless the vendor had knowledge of the violation, should have known about such violation, or participated in or committed such violation

A vendor may not use as a defense the fact that he was absent from the licensed premises at the time a violation occurred if the violations are flagrant, persistent, repeated, or recurring.

Responsible Vendor Servers

According to Louisiana law “any employee of a vendor who is authorized to sell or serve alcoholic beverages or tobacco products in the normal course of his or her employment or deals with customers who purchase or consume alcoholic beverages or tobacco products” must attend an RV Class and obtain an RV Server Permit or “bar card” within 45 days of their hire date. RV Classes are held on a regular basis throughout the state and are provided to individuals for a fee of $25 per person. The classes average 2 ½ – 3 hours and include a test which must be passed in order to receive your Responsible Vendor Server Card. You can get your Louisiana Bar Card online and receive a temporary certificate immediately following the course.

The retail locations at which licensed servers are employed are required to keep employment records on site for inspection by ATC Enforcement Agents. ATC Enforcement Agents also routinely check the compliance of licensed vendors and their servers. Servers found to sell or serve alcohol/tobacco products in violation of Louisiana can be held liable in criminal or civil court depending on the violation. ATC Agents have begun issuing administrative citations directly to RV Servers for violations of Louisiana Title 26 violations. If you have received an administrative violation, Click Here to access the ATC Prosecutor’s Page where you can obtain information about our administrative violation process.

Vendor Responsibilities

Q: I am one of the vendors defined in the program. What are my responsibilities?

A: As a Responsible Vendor, you must do all of the following to maintain your Responsible Vendor certification:

Provide ATC with a completed affidavit
Require all servers and security personnel to attend an approved server or security personnel training course within 45 days of the first day of employment. Server permits are valid for four years. You must ensure that all servers and security personnel attend refresher courses every four years
Pay an annual fee of $50 per licensed establishment holding a Class A-General, Class A-Restaurant, Class B or Class C-Retail permit
- This fee is assessed on all new and all renewal applications for retail dealers of alcoholic beverages and/or tobacco products
- The fee funds the development and administration of the Responsible Vendor program
Keep the handbook current (You may request updates from ATC)
Provide new employees already Responsible Vendor certified with the rules and regulations applicable in the parish or municipality of your establishment’s location
Maintain server and security personnel training records, which must include the following information for all servers and security personnel:
- Name of server
- Date of birth
- Social Security number
- Date of hire
Keep a copy of the above server/security personnel records at your licensed premise at all times for inspection by ATC agents or other peace officers.
Post signs on the licensed premise informing customers of your policy against selling alcohol and/or tobacco products to underage persons

Server and Security Personnel Responsibilities

Q: I am employed as a server or as security for a vendor. What are my responsibilities under this program?

A: Servers and security personnel have the following responsibilities under the Responsible Vendor program:

Complete an approved responsible vendor training course within 45 days of employment
- Your RV card will be available on the ATC website 7-10 days after completion of the course. You may print/download your RV certificate on the ATC website
Make your permit available for inspection immediately if asked by an ATC agent or other peace officer
Keep your Responsible Vendor server certification current
- Your Responsible Vendor permit will expire on the last day of the month FOUR years after the month that you completed the Responsible Vendor course.
- To renew, attend and pass an approved Responsible Vendor course.

At ABSEC, we provide multiple methods of training and certification, including private courses, individual training, online training and customized training courses for all of your needs. ABSEC LLC is a Louisiana owned and based company. Get your bar card online Louisiana!

Attention to users’ needs and organizational policies place us ahead of our competitors. We have assembled a team of experts in this field who are more than able to provide the top level of instruction and consulting in this arena.

For those able to take our online course, we offer immediate certification as required by Louisiana State law. The bar card is issued by the State of Louisiana, but a temporary certificate is issued upon completion of the course and test, giving our students immediate access to written record of attendance and completion.

The alcohol server’s certificate is good for four years, but must be renewed in the manner it was received. (Full recertification by taking the course and passing the test)

Many students prefer to take the course online, instead of having to attend a course in person. Technology has allowed effective online training courses to finally compete with in person classes. The course is presented at the student’s pace and can be stopped and restarted, even on another device.

You can use your cellphone, laptop, PC, iPad or other smart device to access the course and complete the certification requirements. The course materials will also be made available to review at a later date.

One of the more common things out students share with us is that many of our competitors lack a telephone number on their website. This prevents students from contacting their provider when there is an issue or question. At ABSEC, we have a contact number that is answered 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.

Many of the web listings are also for websites that are not authorized providers but are trying to sell you a course that gives you similar information, without the state required certification being issued afterwards. Before you enroll in any course, check the Louisiana ATC Website for a list of the currently authorized providers.

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ABSEC LLC

Authorized Provider by the Louisiana ATC

http://atc.la.gov

I need a Responsible Vendor Server Permit, how do I purchase the online course and take the exam?

Purchase the online course.
Take the online course.
Take the online exam. You will not be able to take the online exam until you complete the online course.)

You will receive a Certificate of Completion upon passing the Online Exam. This Certificate of Completion will serve as proof of training until your Server Permit is issued and made available online by the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control.

I lost my server permit. How do I obtain another copy?

You can logon to the ATC Website to obtain a copy of your Louisiana bar card. For instructions on how to do this, folow the instructions on this page.

How long is my server or security permit good for?

Responsible Vendor Server and Security permits expire every four years on the last day of the month in which you took the class.

Why should someone use the ABSEC Online Program?

The ABSEC online program incorporates Louisiana specific laws and regulations as required in all mandatory responsible vendor training programs in the state of Louisiana. By providing this state specific training, students receive the Louisiana Responsible Vendor Server Permit upon course and exam completion. Get your Louisiana bar card online today!

ABSEC is Louisiana based and Louisiana owned.

Do all of my employees who sell or serve alcohol need to be trained now?

Any person who sells or serves beverage alcohol or deals with customers who purchase or consume beverage alcohol must attend an approved server training class and receive a Server Permit issued by the Louisiana Office of Alcohol & Tobacco Control.

Servers must obtain a permit within 45 days from date of hire.

I took the alcohol server class but did not pass the examination, what do I do now?

Simple. You may retake the course and attempt the final examination by contacting us. https://absecllc.com/contact-us/

I was trained in responsible alcohol service in another state, is that training valid in Louisiana?

No, you must receive training specific to the State of Louisiana by attending an approved Responsible Vendor training program.

Who must attend class and obtain a Responsible Vendor Server Permit?

Any employee of a vendor who is authorized to sell or serve beverage alcohol in the normal course of his or her employment or deals with customers who purchase or consume beverage alcohol must successfully attend and pass a Responsible Vendor training course and obtain a Responsible Vendor Server Permit.

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How to Become a Bartender

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Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to become a skilled and successful bartender. Whether you’re a passionate amateur looking to pursue a professional career or an aspiring mixologist seeking to enhance your craft, this article will provide you with invaluable insights and techniques to help you stand out in the competitive world of bartending.

The Fundamentals of Bartending

1. Acquiring Essential Skills

To become a proficient bartender, it’s crucial to master the foundational skills that form the backbone of the craft. Here are some key skills you need to focus on:

Mixology: Understanding the art of mixing drinks is at the heart of bartending. Learn the classic cocktail recipes, experiment with unique combinations, and strive to create signature drinks that tantalize the taste buds of your customers.
Flair Bartending: Adding an element of showmanship to your bartending skills can truly elevate your craft. Consider learning flair bartending techniques, such as juggling bottles or performing tricks, to create an engaging and memorable experience for your patrons.
Customer Service: Exceptional customer service is essential in the hospitality industry. Develop excellent interpersonal skills, listen attentively to your customers’ preferences, and provide personalized recommendations to enhance their overall experience at your establishment.

2. Building Product Knowledge

As a bartender, having a deep understanding of various spirits, liquors, wines, and beers is imperative. Expand your knowledge by:

Studying Alcohol Types: Familiarize yourself with different alcohol categories, including vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, tequila, and more. Understand their production processes, flavor profiles, and recommended serving techniques.
Exploring Wine and Beer: Wine and beer are integral parts of bartending. Educate yourself on different wine varietals, regions, and food pairings. Similarly, dive into the world of craft beers, understanding various styles and their unique characteristics.
Learning about Mixers and Garnishes: Enhancing your knowledge of mixers, such as sodas, tonics, and juices, as well as garnishes like fruits, herbs, and spices, will enable you to create well-balanced and visually appealing drinks.

Mastering Bartending Techniques

1. Perfecting Drink Preparation

The art of crafting exceptional cocktails lies in mastering bartending techniques. Here are some essential techniques to focus on:

Muddling: Muddling involves gently crushing ingredients like fruits or herbs to release their flavors. Practice muddling techniques to extract maximum flavor while maintaining visual appeal.
Shaking and Stirring: Understand the differences between shaking and stirring cocktails. Shake drinks with juices, syrups, or carbonated mixers to combine and chill them effectively. Stir drinks composed primarily of spirits to create a smoother texture without excessive dilution.
Layering: Layered cocktails add visual appeal to your creations. Master the art of pouring different densities of liquids using the back of a spoon to achieve stunning layered effects.

2. Enhancing Presentation

Aesthetics play a vital role in the overall bar experience. Consider the following tips for enhancing drink presentation:

Glassware Selection: Choose appropriate glassware for each cocktail, ensuring it complements the drink’s style and showcases its colors and garnishes effectively.
Garnish Placement: Thoughtfully place garnishes to add visual interest and complement the flavors of the cocktail. Explore different techniques, such as citrus twists, herb sprigs, or elaborate skewers, to create eye-catching presentations.
Glass Rimming: Experiment with rimming techniques using salt, sugar, or spices to elevate the sensory experience and add a unique touch to certain cocktails.

Creating an Engaging Atmosphere

As a bartender, your role extends beyond mixing drinks. You have the power to create a memorable atmosphere that keeps customers coming back for more. Consider the following strategies:

Bar Setup: Design a bar layout that encourages interaction and socializing. Arrange seating areas to promote conversation and ensure easy access to the bar. Display your liquor selection prominently, showcasing the variety available.
Lighting and Ambiance: Lighting sets the mood in any establishment. Experiment with warm and inviting lighting options that create a cozy ambiance. Consider incorporating dimmers or colored lights to enhance the atmosphere during different times of the day or special events.
Music Selection: Curate a playlist that matches the vibe of your establishment. Choose music that appeals to your target audience and adjust the tempo based on the atmosphere you want to create. Live music or DJs can also add an extra element of entertainment.
Signature Cocktails: Develop a menu of unique and innovative cocktails that reflect your style and the preferences of your customers. Craft creative names and descriptions that capture the essence of each drink, enticing patrons to try something new.

Building Your Bartending Career

1. Networking and Collaboration

To excel in the bartending industry, building a strong network is crucial. Here are some tips for expanding your professional connections:

Industry Events: Attend industry conferences, workshops, and competitions to meet fellow bartenders, industry experts, and potential mentors. Participate in cocktail competitions to showcase your skills and gain recognition.
Online Platforms: Utilize social media platforms to connect with other bartenders, share your creations, and stay updated with industry trends. Join online communities and forums to engage in discussions and learn from experienced professionals.
Collaborations: Seek opportunities to collaborate with local businesses, such as restaurants, breweries, or distilleries. Collaborative events or guest bartending shifts can help expand your reach and introduce you to new audiences.

2. Continuous Learning

Bartending is an ever-evolving field, and staying updated with the latest trends and techniques is essential. Here’s how you can continue your professional development:

Educational Courses: Enroll in mixology courses, advanced bartending programs, or even sommelier certifications to deepen your knowledge and enhance your skill set.
Reading and Research: Stay informed about the latest industry publications, books, and online resources. Explore cocktail recipe books, blogs, and reputable websites dedicated to mixology and bartending.
Bar Visits: Visit renowned bars and establishments in different cities or countries to gain inspiration from their unique approaches to mixology and ambiance. Observe their techniques, learn from their bartenders, and bring fresh ideas back to your own establishment.

1. Get a License or Permit

A license isn’t required in all states, but if you’re competing for a position against other candidates, having a license can give you the edge you need to get hired. In addition to meeting state or local requirements, a bartender license course will ensure that you’re familiar with the following topics:

Knowledge of laws and penalties regarding minors
Identifying the stages of intoxication in customers
How to handle and prevent disturbances

Online bartending certification is easy to find with a quick internet search, but make sure the course is state-approved. To pass the course, you’ll need to complete training and successfully pass a test to show that you have an understanding of the material. It’s also important to note that a bartending license doesn’t guarantee employment. You’ll still need to earn the position by being the best candidate for the job.

In the State of Louisiana, you will need to be registered and certified by the Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) Their program certification is called the Responsible Vendor or RV Card. Many refer to this as a “bar card” and it is a certification that is required for anyone serving alcohol or tobacco in Louisiana, and is valid for four years. ABSEC LLC offers is an authorized provider for the Louisiana Responsible Vendor program. You can get your certification in a few hours on your cell phone or other browser.

You can get your ATC Permit online from ABSEC by enrolling in and completing the Responsible Vendor Certification class online.

2. Get Hired as a Barback or Other Staff Member

The most common advice you’ll hear from actual bartenders is that you should start out as a barback if you want learn how to be a bartender. The barback position requires no experience, only a willingness to work hard. As a barback you’ll be expected to do most of the manual work behind the bar, like cleaning, restocking, and a lot of heavy-lifting. The barback is essentially the bartender’s assistant, which puts you in a great position to learn and observe.

Working as a barback isn’t easy, but it provides a lot of benefits. If you’re someone who has never worked in the bar or foodservice industries, you’ll gain an understanding of how everyday operations work. Pay attention to what goes on around you and you can gain some useful knowledge:

As you stock beer and liquor for the bar, make a point to learn the different brand names
Watch the bartender as they make cocktails and make note of the most popular drinks
Get comfortable behind the bar and helping with customer requests
Memorize bartending terms like straight up and on the rocks
Learn when to prepare for the busy rushes and stock up accordingly
Become familiar with the different types of barware and garnishes.
Provide support for your bartenders and in return they may teach you how to bartend

If a barback position is not available, you can still get great exposure and experience by serving in another capacity. Bouncers, wait staff and other team members will still regularly interact with bar staff and customers alike. This experience is invaluable in teaching you the inner workings of the alcohol service industry.

3. Start at a Restaurant Bar

Starting as a barback isn’t the only way to get behind the bar. You could also start out as a hostess or server in a restaurant with a bar and work your way up. Restaurants that sell alcohol often have openings for bartenders and they will promote from within, especially if you’ve proven yourself to be an efficient and capable server. Another benefit of getting your feet wet at a restaurant bar is that restaurant chains usually have stringent training programs and they will train you to mix drinks to their standard.

Bars in restaurant chains are often smaller than and not as busy as the bars in lounges, nightclubs, or taprooms. They provide a gentler environment in which you can practice your skills and get experience under your belt. The hours are also different, as many restaurant bars don’t operate as late as other bars. You won’t find as much opportunity to experiment with cocktails, but a restaurant chain might be the stepping stone you need before branching out to a trendier locale.

4. Find a Bartending Mentor

As you seek employment in restaurants and bars, be on the lookout for a bartender who is willing to take you under their wing. If you’re starting out as a barback, here are some tips to help you:

Always treat your bartenders with respect
Anticipate their needs and keep the bar stocked at all times
Don’t bombard them with questions during busy hours
Wait for the calm moments to strike up a conversation
Look for the bartender who is willing to share their knowledge

As a server, the more time you spend around the bar, the more likely you are to find a mentor. Follow these tips:

Offer help to your bartenders whenever possible
Retrieve any items they need from the kitchen or storage
Run food orders out to customers at the bar
Keep the bar top clear by delivering any drinks that have been prepared for servers
Always make sure to tip your bartenders fairly and generously for any drinks they’ve made for you

5. Learn How to Pour Drinks

Anyone can pour rum and coke into a glass and call it a cocktail. If you want to become a good bartender, you need to learn how to pour correctly so you achieve balance between the liquor and the mixers. Invest in some bartending tools and start practicing your pours at home.

If you’ve already followed the previous steps in this article and have spent some time watching a bartender, you’ll be familiar with an important tool of the trade, the jigger. Jiggers are small cocktail measuring tools that allow you to control the amount of liquor you’re pouring. With practice, you may be able to skip using a jigger and free pour instead. Free pouring is the art of pouring liquor using a silent count. With either pouring method, accurate pours are essential for a couple reasons:

The right amount of alcohol yields a balanced drink that tastes great
Every time you over pour, you cost the bar money
Good pouring technique makes you more efficient at mixing drinks

6. Practice Mixology

When you’ve mastered the art of pouring, try experimenting by making your own cocktails. You can start out by practicing with standard well drink recipes like gin and tonics or screwdrivers and work your way up to more complicated cocktails that have multiple mixers. Learn about cocktail ingredients like bitters and syrups and how they change the taste of your drinks.

Not every bartender has to be a mixologist, but it does help to have an understanding of how to build cocktails. Through this process you might find that your interests are more geared towards the craft of mixing drinks, rather than serving customers.

7. Be Patient and Available

Your bartending skills won’t develop overnight. You’ll have to spend many hours and many shifts working at your barback position before you gain the trust of the bartender and bar manager. One of the most important things you can do is make sure they know you’re available for whatever they need you to do. Before you know it, the bartender might feel comfortable stepping outside for a break and asking you to step in while they’re gone. Always be ready for those types of opportunities. The more useful you can make yourself, the better.

8. Don’t Rely On Bartending School Alone

Bartending School might seem like a fast track plan to achieving your goal, but you’ll still most likely need real world experience before a bar manager will take a chance on you. You can learn many things in bartending school, like how to pour and how to practice mixology, but you can’t learn how to handle a tough crowd of thirsty customers.

Working behind the bar requires the ability to multitask and perform well under pressure. In bartending school you might learn how to make the perfect martini, but in the real world you’ll have to make several different drinks at the same time, tend to your customers, and keep your bar area clean, all while wearing a smile.

Becoming a bartender isn’t an easy road. When you first start out, you’ll have to be humble. Beginning as a barback and learning from a mentor are two things you can do that require no experience. If you’re willing to learn and work hard, you’ll see your dream come true more quickly.

Conclusion

Bartending is a multifaceted profession that combines creativity, skill, and a passion for hospitality. By mastering the fundamental skills, continuously improving your craft, and creating an engaging atmosphere, you can elevate your bartending career to new heights.

Remember, becoming a successful bartender takes time, practice, and a commitment to ongoing learning. Embrace the artistry of mixology, provide exceptional customer service, and let your creativity shine through your signature cocktails. Cheers to your journey towards becoming a renowned bartender in the vibrant world of hospitality!

ABSEC Training

Online Certification

ABSEC Training has become a term that represents the Louisiana ATC Responsible Vendor certification, either in serving alcohol or tobacco, or in the security of an establishment that serves alcohol or tobacco. The training is conducted either in person or online and represents the finest available training in this arena. Students learn the laws outlining the service of alcohol and tobacco, as well as how to identify intoxicated individuals, disturbances and how to handle these situations in a reasonable, efficient manner. Many times, those staff members in the industry are faced with difficult situations involving highly intoxicated persons. The staff must be able to handle these occurrences with professionalism, efficiency and safety, while complying with state and local laws.

A Louisiana bar card certification allows the service of alcohol and tobacco products and must be renewed every four years. The Louisiana ATC is the governing body for this industry and regularly conducts inspections to determine compliance. Those employed in the service of alcohol must present a valid identification and a valid and current certification. If you are responsible for responding to disturbances, you must present both the Responsible Vendor certification as well as the security certification. The standards and content of the training is updated frequently and controlled by the Louisiana ATC.

It is important that the establishment create and sustain a disturbance policy that addresses that approach and protocols that outline how to respond to and address any disturbance on premise. Louisiana state laws also outline the responsibilities and rights of those involved in a disturbance. Staff members should be well versed in these laws so as to make an informed decision as to how to resolve these volatile situations. In Louisiana, you may prevent a violent attack on your person, or the person of another. This self-defense law is often misunderstood and misinterpreted to mean that a citizen must first be attacked before being able to defend themselves. The law allows you to prevent this assault before it happens. Citizen’s arrests are also a factor when the crime is a felony. The decision to effect a citizen’s arrest is influenced by several factors, including the presence of weapons and the possibility that others may be injured or adversely affected.

ABSEC has put together a team of professionals and subject matter experts to create and develop a comprehensive program of instruction in this arena. Consulting services are also available to enhance the effectiveness of a response continuum, and reduce liability.

Contact ABSEC today to get started in enhancing your establishment’s disturbance policy and to uncover any gaps in compliance with the state’s laws governing the service of alcohol and tobacco.

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