Do Managers Need RBS Certification? Essential Guide

Do managers need RBS certification in establishments that offer on-premises alcohol service? Yes, managers must obtain RBS certification. This requirement applies specifically to managers in establishments holding an “ABC on Premise License” where alcohol is both purchased and consumed. Let’s delve into the specific details of this certification requirement and highlight its importance in ensuring safety and legal compliance.

RBS Certification Requirements for Managers

As of July 1st, 2024, the state of California has mandated that all managers who train alcohol servers or have the authority to hire or oversee them must obtain RBS certification. This requirement is based on the significant responsibility associated with managing individuals who serve alcohol on premises with a California ABC license. Managers are expected to possess the necessary knowledge and skills to handle alcohol service responsibly.

Who Needs To Be Certified?

Managers in establishments such as bars, restaurants, and clubs, where customers consume alcoholic beverages, are required to obtain RBS certification. It applies to managers who oversee staff responsible for taking customer alcoholic beverage orders or checking customer identification. If you hold a management position in such an establishment with an ABC on-premises license, RBS certification is mandatory.

The Process of Obtaining RBS Certification

To become RBS certified, managers and alcohol servers must enroll in courses provided by approved training providers vetted by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). These courses cover various topics, including identifying fake IDs and responsibly cutting off service. By completing the training, managers gain the necessary skills to handle situations where a customer has had too much to drink and needs to be denied further service.

It is essential to comply with the certification deadlines. Managers must ensure that, by August 31st following the first year of July 1st or within two months of starting their role, there is no risk of serving alcohol to underage individuals under their supervision. 

Failure to comply with these deadlines may result in substantial fines and severe consequences for the establishment.

Ensuring Compliance With California’s Alcohol Service Laws

Compliance with RBS certification is not optional for managers and alcohol servers in California establishments with on-premises alcohol service. Since July 1st, 2024, it is a legal requirement. Failure to comply may lead to penalties, including fines or the revocation of the establishment’s license. It is crucial to act promptly to ensure compliance.

To begin the certification process, managers should select an ABC-approved training provider listed on the official RBS website. These approved providers offer training covering essential topics such as the effects of alcohol and techniques for responsibly managing alcohol service and intervening when necessary. 

The training typically takes around three hours and provides valuable insights that contribute to the safety of customers and the success of the establishment. Managers and alcohol servers must complete their certification before the specified deadlines. Utilizing the ABC RBS portal can help track progress and avoid any surprises during inspections.

Sign Up for the California Responsible Beverage Service Training Today

Do managers need RBS certification in establishments with on-premises alcohol service? Absolutely. In California, it is a legal requirement for managers in such establishments to obtain RBS certification. This certification is mandatory, not optional. 

Managers must enroll in courses offered by ABC-approved training providers and ensure they complete the training within the specified deadlines.

By obtaining RBS certification through California RBS training, managers not only fulfill their legal obligations but also demonstrate their dedication to ensuring the safety of patrons and upholding compliance with alcohol service laws. Compliance with this certification requirement is necessary to avoid penalties and preserve the integrity and legal standing of the business.

Get Started Only $12.50