To obtain a bartending license in North Carolina, you need to complete the Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Program (RASP), apply for a retail permit from the ABC Commission, and meet certain qualifications. The process involves several steps, including training, application, and compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Laws and Rules of North Carolina.
1. Complete the Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Program (RASP)
- Purpose: This program provides necessary training for bartenders in North Carolina. It covers topics such as prevention of sales to underage and intoxicated persons, identification of acceptable forms of ID, understanding of dram shop laws, happy hour laws, hours of sale, and other laws.
- Estimated Cost: Free of charge.
- Instructions: You can participate in the RASP conducted by the Education Outreach section of the NC ABC Commission. The training lasts for 2 hours and is conducted in a hands-on style using video and open discussions. The NC ABC Commission offers both in-person and online versions of this training. Alternatively, you can complete the Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Course offered by Rserving for $5.95. Upon completion, you can download your certificate immediately.
2. Apply for a Retail Permit
- Purpose: A retail permit is required to legally sell alcoholic beverages in North Carolina.
- Instructions: You can apply for a Retail Permit online, by mail, or in person at the ABC Commission. If you choose to apply in person, you must make an appointment with a permit specialist. If issued, the temporary permit will be emailed to you. You can apply for a Retail Permit here.
3. Meet the Qualifications
- Purpose: To ensure that the permit holder is responsible and capable of adhering to the rules and regulations of the ABC Commission.
- Instructions: To be eligible to receive and hold an ABC permit, a person must meet several qualifications such as being at least 21 years old, being a resident of North Carolina, not having been convicted of a felony within three years, not having been convicted of an alcoholic beverage offense within two years, and more.
FAQs
- What is the cost of the Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Program (RASP)? The RASP conducted by the NC ABC Commission is free of charge. Alternatively, the Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Course offered by Rserving costs $5.95.
- How can I apply for a Retail Permit? You can apply for a Retail Permit online, by mail, or in person at the ABC Commission. If you choose to apply in person, you must make an appointment with a permit specialist.
- What are the qualifications to receive and hold an ABC permit? To be eligible to receive and hold an ABC permit, a person must meet several qualifications such as being at least 21 years old, being a resident of North Carolina, not having been convicted of a felony within three years, not having been convicted of an alcoholic beverage offense within two years, and more.
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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only and the content does not constitute an endorsement. Otter does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, images/graphics, links, or other content contained within the content. We recommend that you consult with financial, legal, and business professionals for advice specific to your situation.
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