Every bartender, server, barback, or cashier who sells or serves alcohol in Texas must hold a valid TABC seller-server certificate. The quickest and cheapest way to earn it is a fully online course. On this page you’ll learn:
- What “TABC certification” actually means under Texas law.
- Who must be certified (spoiler: almost everyone touching alcohol).
- Exactly how to finish the $9 online course and print your card today.
- Safe-Harbor perks for bars that keep 100% certified staff.
TABC Certification at a Glance
| Requirement | Details (2025) |
| Legal Authority | Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) |
| Who Needs It | Anyone who sells, serves, mixes, or delivers alcohol (on or off-premise) |
| Course Length | 2 to 4 hours, self-paced, mobile-friendly |
| Exam | 25 multiple-choice questions, 70% to pass |
| Cost | $9 flat at Seller Server Classes, no hidden fees |
| Validity | 2 years statewide |
| Instant Certificate | Yes, download or print |
| Safe-Harbor | Yes, protects employers from most violations when all staff hold valid cards. |
How to Get TABC Certified Online in 4 Steps
- Create Your Account: Go to Courses and click “Take this course.” Create an account and purchase course..
- Complete Study Curriculum: Read short modules, answer quick quizzes, and track progress on any device.
- Pass the 25-Question Exam: 70% is passing.
- Download & Share Your Certificate: Print it for your manager and keep a digital copy on your phone. Seller Server Classes auto-reports your completion to TABC within 7 days.
Do You Really Need This Card?
- Bartenders & Mixologists: Mixing or pouring any alcoholic drink
- Servers & Waitstaff: Delivering drinks to tables
- Stadium Vendors & Festival Workers: Selling sealed beer or wine
- Retail Clerks: Checking IDs at convenience or liquor stores
- Delivery Drivers: Third-party services handling alcohol orders (DoorDash, Uber Eats, etc.)
Safe-Harbor Protection for Texas Bars
Texas law grants “Safe-Harbor” immunity to licensed venues when every employee on duty holds a current TABC certificate and the employer maintains proof of training. If a certified server accidentally commits a violation (for example, sells to a minor), Safe-Harbor can:
- Shield the owner’s licence from suspension or revocation
- Reduce or eliminate civil fines
- Lower dram-shop liability in civil court
Bottom line: employers love applicants who arrive already certified.
TABC Certification FAQ (2025)
How fast can I finish?
Most learners complete the material and exam in about two hours, some in 4 hours.
Is online training accepted statewide?
Yes. Selle rServer Classes is TABC-approved Provider; online completions are valid in all 254 Texas counties.
What happens when my card expires?
You must retake the course. See our TABC Renewal Guide for grace-period rules.
Do I need a food-handler card too?
If you handle food in addition to alcohol, most counties require a separate Food-Handler certificate. Compare both requirements in our TABC vs Food-Handler chart or visit Texas Food Handler Classes now.
Ready to get legal and start earning tips? Enroll in the $9 TABC online course now! Print your certificate tonight.
Information reflects Texas statutes effective . SSC® Seller Server Classes auto-reports completions to TABC; keep a personal copy of your certificate on-site.