How to Get a Bartending License in Michigan

In the state of Michigan, obtaining a bartending license involves completing a server training program approved by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC). This requirement applies to licensees obtaining a new on-premises license or transferring more than 50% interest in an existing on-premises license. It's important to note that bartenders and servers do not need a license to serve alcoholic beverages at a bar, restaurant, hotel, manufacturer’s tasting room, or other licensed business that sells alcoholic beverages. However, certain individuals serving alcoholic beverages are required to complete an alcohol server training program.

1.  Complete a Server Training Program

• Purpose: To equip servers, staff, and managers with the knowledge necessary to supervise the sale and consumption of alcohol in a safe, professional, and practical manner.
• Estimated Cost: $30.00.
• Instructions: You can complete the Michigan Alcohol Server Training offered by TAM or the ServSafe Alcohol Certification course offered by the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA). Both courses cover a range of topics including laws and ethics, clinical effects of alcohol, preventing and handling customer intoxication, preventing underage purchase and consumption, dealing with disruptive consumers, and understanding the legal restrictions and rules pertaining to alcohol consumption in Michigan. You can register for the TAM course here and for the MRLA course here.

2.  Apply for a Special License for Consumption on the Premises

• Purpose: To legally serve alcohol at a specific event or location.
• Estimated Cost: $25.00 - $50.00 per day, depending on how long the organization has been established.
• Instructions: You need to apply through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and the MLCC at least 10 days before the date the license is desired. The application process involves several steps, including submitting a certified copy of the resolution of the membership or board of directors authorizing the application, providing a detailed diagram if the event is taking place outside, obtaining street closure approval if the event is located on a city/village street, and getting approval from the clergyman from the church and/or the school superintendent if there is a church or school located within 500 feet of the scheduled event. More details can be found here.

FAQs

• Do I need a bartending license to serve alcoholic beverages at a bar, restaurant, hotel, manufacturer’s tasting room, or other licensed business that sells alcoholic beverages in Michigan? No, bartenders and servers do not need a license to serve alcoholic beverages at these establishments. However, certain individuals serving alcoholic beverages are required to complete an alcohol server training program.
• How much does it cost to get a bartending license in Michigan? The cost of the server training program is $30.00. If you're applying for a Special License for Consumption on the Premises, the fee varies depending on how long the organization has been established. For organizations established less than one year, the fee is $50.00 for each separate, consecutive day of the event. For organizations established one year or more, the fee is $25.00 for each separate, consecutive day of the event.
• How long does it take to get a bartending license in Michigan? Once registered for the server training program, you have up to 90 days to complete your exam. If you're applying for a Special License for Consumption on the Premises, the application must be submitted at least 10 days before the date the license is desired.

Useful Information Source Links

• Michigan Liquor Control Commission
• Michigan Alcohol Server Training
• ServSafe Alcohol Certification
• Special License for Consumption on the Premises

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