How to Get a Bartending License in Illinois

To obtain a bartending license in the state of Illinois, you must complete the Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training (BASSET) program, apply through the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC), and depending on your location, apply for a local liquor license. The BASSET program is recognized by major Illinois employers, insurance firms, and law enforcement. The ILCC offers more than 39 different license categories, and in some locations, such as the Village of Schaumburg, you must also apply for a local liquor license.

1. Complete the BASSET Program

• Purpose: The BASSET program is a preventive measure to discourage overconsumption and keep drunk drivers off the roads. It is required for all on-premise alcohol servers and employees who check ID for alcohol service in Illinois.
• Estimated Cost: $13.99.
• Instructions: To earn your BASSET Certification, follow these steps:
• Enroll in the On-Premise BASSET Alcohol Training class, which is designed for bars and restaurants. You can enroll online at this link.
• Verify you chose the correct course.
• Fill out your personal information that is required.
• Complete the registration process.
• Complete the BASSET Alcohol training course online.
• Print your certification immediately.
• Receive your original certificate by mail in 3 to 5 business days.

2. Apply through the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC)

• Purpose: The ILCC is responsible for reviewing state liquor applications and issuing licenses.
• Instructions: To apply for a license, you can schedule a licensing appointment through this link. For more information, you can contact the Chicago Office at 312-814-2206 or the Springfield Office at 217-782-2136. You can also reach out via email through this link.

3. Apply for a Local Liquor License (if required)

• Purpose: In some locations, such as the Village of Schaumburg, you must also apply for a local liquor license.
• Estimated Cost: $40.00 for a 1-Day (Class D) Liquor License.
• Instructions: For new annual liquor license requests, you must begin with a letter to the liquor commissioner for formal action before an application can be processed. Send letters to Liquor Commissioner, Village of Schaumburg, 101 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg, IL 60193, email mgerwel@schaumburg.com or call 847-923-4402. The application review includes a background check, which may take from four to six weeks.

FAQs

• What is the BASSET program? The BASSET program is a preventive measure to discourage overconsumption and keep drunk drivers off the roads. It is required for all on-premise alcohol servers and employees who check ID for alcohol service in Illinois.
• How much does it cost to get a bartending license in Illinois? The BASSET program costs $13.99. If you are in a location that requires a local liquor license, such as the Village of Schaumburg, the cost for a 1-Day (Class D) Liquor License is $40.00.
• How long does it take to get a bartending license in Illinois? The BASSET program can be completed online and your certification can be printed immediately. You will receive your original certificate by mail in 3 to 5 business days. The application review for a local liquor license in the Village of Schaumburg includes a background check, which may take from four to six weeks.

Useful Information Source Links

• BASSET Program
• Liquor Control Commission
• Contact Agency
• Schedule a Licensing Appointment
• Email Us
• License Look Up

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