All 50 States + D.C. · Official ServSafe® Program by the National Restaurant Association
ServSafe® Alcohol Online Course & Exam for Servers, Bartenders & Managers
Learn to check IDs, prevent over-serving and protect your business with responsible alcohol service training you can finish in about four hours, on any device.
- About 4-hour course
- 40-question exam
- No proctor needed*
- Available in all 50 states
- Exam in English or Spanish
- Phone, tablet or PC
ServSafe Alcohol is available in every state. Some states have additional requirements or different tuition, so selecting your state takes you to the exact course, exam and checkout for your state.
*Standard Primary Exam. Some states have alternate exam or course requirements, which are explained on your state page.
ServSafe Alcohol Certification for All 50 States
ServSafe Alcohol is one of the most widely recognized responsible alcohol service programs in the country, and it’s available for every state and Washington, D.C. Alcohol laws aren’t identical everywhere, so some states add their own requirements or set different tuition. Your state page covers those details before you enroll.
One Trusted National Program
Developed by the National Restaurant Association and used by restaurants, bars, hotels, stadiums and retailers nationwide.
State-Specific Details
Where a state has additional steps, such as a state-specific course version, exam format or registration, your state page walks you through them.
The Right Tuition for Your State
Standard tuition is $35.95 for the online course and Primary Exam. If your state’s price is different, you’ll see it on your state page before checkout.
What’s Included in the ServSafe Alcohol Online Course
- ServSafe Alcohol 3rd Edition online course (about 4 hours)
- Interactive exercises, video simulations and role-play scenarios
- Bookmark feature so you can pause and resume anytime
- Works on smartphones, tablets and computers
- One-time Exam Access Code emailed with your receipt
- 40-question online Primary Exam, English or Spanish
- No proctor required for the Primary Exam
- ServSafe Alcohol certificate after you pass
What You’ll Learn in ServSafe Alcohol Training
Alcohol Laws & Your Responsibilities
Understand alcohol liability, your legal duties as a server or seller, and how violations affect you and your employer.
Checking IDs & Spotting Fakes
Verify age, recognize acceptable forms of ID and identify fake, altered or borrowed IDs.
Preventing Over-Serving
Learn how alcohol affects the body, recognize signs of intoxication and track how much guests have had.
Refusing Service Responsibly
Use proven techniques to stop service, de-escalate conflict and keep guests and staff safe.
Preventing Drunk Driving
Help prevent intoxicated guests from driving and handle difficult situations with confidence.
Guest Service & Communication
Balance responsible service with a positive guest experience and clear team communication.
Who Needs ServSafe Alcohol Certification?
For employers, trained staff can help reduce the risk of alcohol violations and liability claims. Some insurers and local agencies may also recognize responsible service training.
How to Get Your ServSafe Alcohol Certificate Online
- Select your stateSee your state’s course, requirements and tuition.
- Enroll onlineYour login details and Exam Access Code are emailed after checkout.
- Complete the courseAbout 4 hours, self-paced. Finish within 90 days of starting.
- Pass the examEnter your Exam Access Code and score 75% or higher.
- Print your certificateDownload it from your ServSafe account.
ServSafe Alcohol Course FAQs
What is the ServSafe Alcohol Online Course and Exam?
It is the National Restaurant Association's responsible alcohol service program, delivered online. The self-paced course takes about four hours and uses interactive exercises, video simulations and role-play scenarios. It is followed by a 40-question online ServSafe Alcohol Primary Exam.
How much does the ServSafe Alcohol course cost?
Standard tuition is $35.95 for the ServSafe Alcohol Online Course and Primary Exam through On Focus Solutions. Some states have different tuition, which is shown on your state page before checkout.
Is ServSafe Alcohol accepted in my state?
Yes. ServSafe Alcohol is available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Some states have alternate requirements, such as a state-specific course version, a proctored exam or different tuition. Select your state above to see the exact requirements for your state.
Do I need a proctor for the exam?
No. The standard ServSafe Alcohol Primary Exam does not require a proctor. A few states have alternate exam requirements, and your state page will tell you if they apply to you.
How many questions are on the exam and what is the passing score?
The Primary Exam has 40 questions. You need a score of 75%, which means answering at least 30 questions correctly.
How long does the course take?
The online course takes about four hours. It is self-paced and has a bookmark feature, so you can stop and pick up where you left off on any device.
How long do I have to finish the course?
Once you start the course, you have 90 days to complete it. An unused course expires one year from the date of purchase, and expiration dates cannot be extended.
Is the course available in Spanish?
The online course is delivered in English. After you finish the course, you can choose to take the Primary Exam in English or Spanish.
How long is the ServSafe Alcohol certificate valid?
The National Restaurant Association recognizes ServSafe Alcohol certificates for three years. Some states, cities or employers set a different renewal period, which your state page notes where it applies.
How do I get my certificate?
After you pass the exam, you can download and print your ServSafe Alcohol certificate from your ServSafe account. In Illinois, the Illinois Liquor Control Commission also emails your BASSET card after you pass.
Can I take the course on my phone?
Yes. The course is mobile-enabled and works on smartphones, tablets and computers, so you can train whenever it fits your schedule.
Who should take ServSafe Alcohol training?
Bartenders, servers, managers, liquor and convenience store clerks, event and banquet staff, and anyone who sells or serves alcohol. Many states and employers require responsible alcohol service training before you can serve.
Can I get a refund?
No. All purchases of online courses are final and cannot be refunded, so