Top 11 Beverage Server Certifications

Certifications are important for beverage servers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. This can help potential employers assess a person's qualifications and give them an edge over other applicants. In addition, certifications can open up new opportunities for career advancement and provide access to higher-level positions. Finally, certifications can be used to increase wages and salaries as employers often offer higher pay to certified professionals.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Beverage Servers and how they can help further a beverage server's career.

What are Beverage Server Certifications?

Beverage server certification is a program designed to help individuals who serve alcoholic beverages in their professional capacity become knowledgeable and responsible in their job. This type of certification typically involves taking an educational course that covers topics such as alcohol laws, legal responsibility, customer service, and safety. The goal of the program is to ensure that servers are aware of the risks associated with serving alcohol and know how to handle situations responsibly. By completing a beverage server certification course, servers can demonstrate that they possess the knowledge necessary to safely and responsibly serve alcohol in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. This can help give employers peace of mind that their staff is well-versed on important issues related to serving alcohol, and it may even increase job security or chances for promotion for those who have obtained the certification.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the specific regulations and requirements for beverage server certification in your area before taking the course. Different states, provinces, and countries have different regulations that must be followed when serving alcohol, so it is important to be aware of what is required before enrolling in a certification program.

Related: What does a Beverage Server do?

Top 11 Beverage Server Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Beverage Servers today.

1. Certified Professional Food and Beverage Server (CPFBS)

Certified Professional Food and Beverage Server (CPFBS) is a certification program offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The CPFBS program is designed to provide food and beverage servers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to serve customers in a professional manner.

The CPFBS program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as customer service, food safety, sanitation, alcohol service laws, wine selection, menu knowledge, and more. The exam tests the student’s knowledge of these topics.

It typically takes around 8-10 hours to complete the online course and pass the exam. To get certified as a CPFBS, you must first register for the program on the NRAEF website. After registering for the program, you will be provided with access to all of the materials necessary to complete the online course and take the exam.

The cost for becoming a Certified Professional Food and Beverage Server is $99 USD. This fee includes access to all of the materials necessary for completing the online course and taking the exam.

2. Certified Food and Beverage Manager (CFBM)

Certified Food and Beverage Manager (CFBM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. It is designed to provide foodservice professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to manage a successful food and beverage operation.

The CFBM program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as food safety, cost control, menu planning, customer service, and more. It takes approximately 40 hours to complete the online course. Once the online course is completed, students must pass an in-person exam at a National Restaurant Association Education Foundation testing center.

The cost of the CFBM program varies depending on your location. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500 for both the online course and in-person exam.

To become certified as a Certified Food and Beverage Manager (CFBM), you must first complete the online course and then pass the in-person exam at a National Restaurant Association Education Foundation testing center. Once you have successfully passed both components of the program, you will receive your CFBM certification from the NRAEF.

3. ServSafe Alcohol® Responsible Alcohol Service Certification

ServSafe Alcohol® Responsible Alcohol Service Certification is a certification program designed to educate and certify alcohol servers in the responsible sale and service of alcohol. The program covers topics such as state laws, recognizing fake IDs, identifying intoxication levels, and preventing sales to minors. It also includes information on how to handle difficult situations that may arise when serving alcohol.

The ServSafe Alcohol® Responsible Alcohol Service Certification is administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The certification is valid for five years from the date of completion.

To get the certification, individuals must attend an approved training course or take an online course. The online course consists of six modules that must be completed within 90 days. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, participants will receive their ServSafe Alcohol® Responsible Alcohol Service Certification card in the mail.

The cost for the online course is $50 plus any applicable taxes.

4. National Restaurant Association's ServSafe Alcohol® Advanced Certification

The National Restaurant Association's ServSafe Alcohol® Advanced Certification is a comprehensive training program designed to help foodservice professionals understand the responsible service of alcohol. This certification provides an in-depth look at the legal, safety, and liability issues related to alcohol service. It covers topics such as state and local laws, recognizing signs of intoxication, preventing intoxication, ID verification, and more.

The ServSafe Alcohol® Advanced Certification takes approximately four hours to complete. Participants must take an online course that includes videos, interactive activities, and quizzes. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive their certification card within two weeks.

The cost of the ServSafe Alcohol® Advanced Certification varies depending on the provider; however, most providers offer a discounted rate for groups or organizations. The cost typically ranges from $50 to $100 per person.

To obtain this certification, individuals must be 21 years of age or older and have a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license). Additionally, individuals must successfully complete the online course and pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their certification card.

5. Court of Master Sommeliers Level 1 Certification

The Court of Master Sommeliers Level 1 Certification is a program designed to introduce aspiring sommeliers to the world of wine and beverage service. It is the first step in becoming a certified sommelier, and is open to anyone interested in pursuing a career in the hospitality industry or just learning about wine. The certification consists of two parts: an online course and an exam.

The online course is self-paced and can be taken at any time. It covers topics such as grape varieties, viticulture, winemaking, sensory evaluation, food pairing, service techniques, and more. The course typically takes around 6 months to complete but may take longer depending on how much time you have available.

The exam is offered twice a year and consists of multiple-choice questions based on the material covered in the online course. The exam must be taken in person at one of the Court's examination centers located throughout North America. The cost for taking the exam is $300 USD plus applicable taxes.

Once you have passed both parts of the certification process you will receive your Level 1 Certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers. This certificate will serve as proof that you have completed all requirements necessary to become a certified sommelier.

6. Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 2 Award in Wines

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2 Award in Wines is a globally recognized qualification for those wishing to gain an in-depth understanding of wines. It is ideal for those working in the hospitality and retail sectors, or anyone looking to increase their knowledge and appreciation of wines.

The course typically takes around 30 hours to complete, with classes being held over a period of 6-8 weeks. Depending on the provider, classes may be held online or in person. The course content includes topics such as grape varieties, wine regions and production methods, food and wine pairing, tasting techniques and more.

To get the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, you must attend all classes and pass a multiple-choice exam at the end of the course. The exam consists of 50 questions which must be completed within one hour; it is designed to test your knowledge of wines from around the world.

The cost of the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from £200 - £400 per person.

7. BarSmarts Advanced Certification

BarSmarts Advanced Certification is an online course created by the United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG) that provides bartenders with advanced knowledge and skills in the craft of mixology. The course covers topics such as flavor profiling, spirit production, classic cocktails, and more. It takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $99. To get certified, you must first register for the course on the USBG website. Once registered, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the course material. After completing all of the lessons, you will be prompted to take a final exam. Upon passing the exam and paying a fee of $99, you will receive your BarSmarts Advanced Certification certificate via email.

8. National Bartenders Association Mixology Certification

The National Bartenders Association Mixology Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize bartenders who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of mixology. This certification is awarded to individuals who can demonstrate their ability to accurately create and serve cocktails, as well as their knowledge of the history and culture surrounding the craft.

To receive the National Bartenders Association Mixology Certification, applicants must complete a comprehensive course that covers topics such as liquor laws and regulations, customer service, mixology techniques, bar setup and maintenance, and beverage preparation. The course typically takes about 8-10 hours to complete and includes both online instruction and hands-on training. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants will receive their certification from the National Bartenders Association.

The cost for this certification program varies depending on where you take it; however, most courses range from $200-$300 USD.

9. Certified Cicerone® Program

The Certified Cicerone® Program is an internationally recognized certification program for beer professionals. It was created to ensure that beer servers have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide customers with an excellent beer experience. The program consists of four levels of certification, each requiring more knowledge and skills than the previous level: Certified Beer Server, Certified Cicerone®, Advanced Cicerone®, and Master Cicerone®.

The Certified Beer Server exam is the entry-level exam in the program and can be completed online in about two hours. To become a Certified Beer Server, you must pass a 50-question multiple-choice exam with a score of 75% or higher. The cost for this exam is $69 USD.

The next level is the Certified Cicerone® exam which requires a minimum of two years of professional beer service experience. This exam consists of a written portion (multiple choice, essay, and tasting) as well as a practical portion (serving techniques). The cost for this exam is $345 USD.

The Advanced Cicerone® Exam requires at least five years of professional beer service experience and includes an oral examination on topics such as sensory evaluation, brewing processes, beer styles, food pairings, draft systems, and more. The cost for this exam is $595 USD.

Finally, the Master Cicerone® Exam requires at least ten years of professional beer service experience and includes an oral examination on topics such as advanced brewing processes, beer styles from around the world, barrel aging programs, off-flavor identification & correction strategies, food pairings & menu design principles, draft system maintenance & troubleshooting procedures, business acumen related to craft beer industry trends & regulations. The cost for this exam is $995 USD.

Overall it can take anywhere from 2 hours to 10+ years to complete all four levels depending on your current experience level with beer service and how much time you are willing to dedicate to studying for each level's respective exams.

10. Barista Guild of America Barista Certification

The Barista Guild of America (BGA) Barista Certification is a program designed to recognize baristas who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the craft of espresso-based coffee preparation. The certification is divided into two levels: Level 1 and Level 2.

Level 1 certification requires that applicants demonstrate their ability to produce quality espresso drinks, understand basic latte art, and effectively communicate with customers. This certification can be completed in one day and costs $150.

Level 2 certification requires that applicants demonstrate advanced skills in espresso preparation, latte art, customer service, and coffee knowledge. This certification takes two days to complete and costs $250.

In order to get certified, applicants must first register for the BGA Barista Certification Program online at www.baristaguildofamerica.org/certification/. After registering, they will need to attend an approved training program or take an online course offered by the BGA. Once they have successfully completed the coursework or training program, they will then need to take a written exam as well as a practical exam in order to receive their certificate from the BGA.

11. Specialty Coffee Association of America Barista Skills Professional Certificate

The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) Barista Skills Professional Certificate is a certification program for baristas and coffee professionals. The program is designed to provide an understanding of the fundamentals of espresso preparation and customer service, as well as the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver quality specialty coffee beverages.

The program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on assessment. The online course covers topics such as coffee history, grinding and dosing, milk steaming, drink preparation, customer service, equipment maintenance, and more. After completing the online course, students must pass a hands-on assessment at an SCAA-approved training center in order to receive their certificate.

The program takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Students must complete the online course within 30 days of registering for it. The cost for the program is $295 USD.

Do You Really Need a Beverage Server Certificate?

Whether or not you need a beverage server certificate depends on the state in which you live. In some states, having a beverage server certificate is required by law in order to serve alcoholic beverages. Even if it is not required by law, some establishments may require their servers to have a certificate in order to be employed.

Having a beverage server certificate is beneficial for those who wish to work as a bartender or server in an establishment that serves alcohol. The course teaches important skills such as recognizing signs of intoxication and understanding the legal responsibilities associated with serving alcohol. It also provides information about how to handle difficult customers and how to promote responsible drinking.

Furthermore, having a beverage server certificate can make you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the hospitality industry. As employers will be looking for someone who is knowledgeable about the laws and regulations related to serving alcohol, having this certification can give you an advantage over other applicants who don't have one.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a beverage server certificate depends on where you live and what kind of job you're applying for. For those interested in working as bartenders or servers, having this certification can help them demonstrate their knowledge of serving alcohol responsibly and give them an edge when applying for jobs.

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FAQs About Beverage Server Certifications

Q1. What is a Beverage Server Certification?

A1. A Beverage Server Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual has received training in the responsible service, sale and consumption of alcohol. It is typically required by states and provinces in order to legally serve alcoholic beverages to customers.

Q2. How do I get a Beverage Server Certification?

A2. The process for obtaining a Beverage Server Certification varies by state or province, but typically requires attending an approved alcohol server training program and passing an exam or course assessment.

Q3. How long does it take to get a Beverage Server Certification?

A3. The amount of time it takes to obtain a Beverage Server Certification depends on the specific requirements of your state or province, as well as the type of training program you attend. Most courses usually last between 4-6 hours, but there may be additional study time required before taking the exam or assessment.

Q4. How much does it cost to get a Beverage Server Certification?

A4. The cost of obtaining a Beverage Server Certification depends on the specific requirements of your state or province, as well as the type of training program you attend. Some programs may be offered for free, while others charge a fee for materials and/or instruction time.

Q5. How long is my Beverage Server Certification valid?

A5. The length of validity for your certification depends on the specific requirements of your state or province, but most certifications are valid for up to three years from the date they were issued.