Aspiring bartenders in Georgia must meet specific age and licensing requirements to serve alcoholic beverages legally. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the regulations governing bartenders in the Peach State.
Age Requirement
Can you be a bartender at 18 in Georgia?
No. Georgia law requires bartenders to be at least 21 years old. This age requirement applies to all individuals who serve or sell alcoholic beverages, including bartenders, servers, and package store employees.
Licensing
In addition to meeting the age requirement, bartenders in Georgia must obtain a Serving License from the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR). This license certifies that the individual has completed an approved alcohol awareness training program and passed a background check.
Alcohol Awareness Training
To obtain a Serving License, bartenders must complete an alcohol awareness training program approved by the DOR. These programs cover responsible alcohol service, underage drinking prevention, and the legal consequences of violating alcohol laws.
Background Check
Bartenders are also required to undergo a criminal background check. The DOR will review the applicant’s criminal history to ensure they are eligible for a Serving License.
County-Specific Requirements
Some counties in Georgia may have additional licensing requirements for bartenders. These requirements can vary by county, so it’s essential to check with your local authorities to determine if any additional licenses are necessary.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Individuals who serve or sell alcohol without a valid Serving License or who violate any other alcohol laws may face severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and loss of their license.
Understanding the age and licensing requirements for bartenders in Georgia is crucial for anyone seeking a career in the hospitality industry. By meeting these requirements, bartenders can ensure they are operating legally and responsibly.
Virginia Alcohol Seller-Server Training + ANAB-Accredited Food Handler
Obtain your training as an ANAB-Accredited food handler and as a Virginia alcohol seller.
Washington Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST)
To obtain your MAST certification online, begin your Washington alcohol seller training.
So You Want To Be A Bartender
FAQ
Can 18 year olds bartend in Georgia?
Can you be a bartender at 18 in the US?
What do I need to be a bartender in Georgia?
What is the youngest age to be a bartender?
How old do you have to be to be a bartender?
When it comes to serving alcohol and pursuing a career in bartending, it’s essential to be well-informed about the age restrictions in your state. These restrictions can vary significantly, ranging from 18 to 21 years old, depending on your jurisdiction. Additionally, bartending license requirements may differ based on state regulations.
Do you need a bartending license in Georgia?
It is important to keep in mind though that some employers will require bartenders to complete such courses regardless of state or city laws. Although the state of Georgia does not have any bartending license requirements, it still may be in your best interest to receive proper bartending training.
How much does a bartending license cost in Georgia?
A bartending license in Georgia will cost around $10. Again though, because a bartending license is not required in Georgia, the cost to you can be zero dollars to become a bartender if you so choose. The minimum age to serve alcohol as both a bartender and server in the state of Georgia is 18 years old.
Can a 21 year old be a bartender?
In some states, adults under 21 may legally tend bar. But only in certain types of on-site places, such as restaurants. Often, bartenders must be at least a given age. But younger employees may stock coolers with alcohol. Or clear alcohol from tables. Some states place conditions on on-site bartenders under age 21.