Frequently Asked Questions

There is a sixty-one (61) day grace period from date of hire or a promotion from a non-serving position to a serving position (example – host to server). If you already have an ABC card and your card is about to expire, you must obtain a new permit before your old one expires, there is no grace period for servers who already possess an ABC Card.. If you have worked at an alcohol establishment in your 61 day grace period, you do not get a new grace period if you move to a new establishment.

ABC Permit trainers typically only accept cash or company checks . Trainers do not accept personal checks. Some trainers are accepting major credit cards; however you will need to check with your trainer once you sign up for a class. You can find your trainers contact information by clicking on the selected class you are interested in.

Notice: Do not forget to bring your RLPS # so the trainer can report your score to the TABC.

The Alcoholic Beverage Commission is responsible for the enforcement and regulation of all phases of liquor by the drink in most states.

The ABC Permit is what you need to serve alcohol at any liquor-by-the-drink establishment in most states. Your establishment must have a physical copy to present at the time of any inspection by the TABC. The server permit is issued electronically through the RLPS account.

Step 1: Complete the RLPS application at https://rlps.abc.tn.gov/citizenaccess. You will pay a $20 fee online.

Step 2: Register for an online Abc class or in person Abc class at https://www.abcpermits.com.

Yes you can. Tennessee approved online courses on March 15, 2019. They are the same length of time as an in person course. You can download our app in the Apple App Store, or Google Play Store and take the class right from your phone. You can also access the online Abc Class from any browser, stop and go as you please. The class will record your progress at the place you stopped. Aim To Serve is an accredited online course for the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission.

The TABC help desk: Call 615-532-2297 or 615-741-1602 or email tabc_rlps.technical@tn.gov

No, all training programs have to submit your RLPS # and grade to the TABC. For Aim To Serve, we submit grades daily, except on weekends and major holidays. Those classes will be submitted the next business day.

The application fee is $20 and is non-refundable.

contact the TABC help desk line at 615-532-2297 or 615-741-1602 or email tabc_rlpstechical@tn.gov

The RLPS Number is a record number given to the applicant after a Server Permit Application has been completed and paid for to the TABC. AIM to Serve uses this number to identify the student and attaches this RLPS number to the students final grade.

To obtain your RLPS number you must apply and pay for your server permit application through the TABC’s Regulatory Licensing Permit System. Click here to start your application: https://rlps.abc.tn.gov/citizenaccess

Your establishment must have a copy of your Abc card for inspections. Your certificate of completion is NOT your Abc card and will not substitute for your Abc permit. It is good practice to have a copy your Abc card on you in case your establishment misplaces their copy.

The Certificate of Completion is required to be issued by the Server Training Program in the State of Tennessee. However, it does NOT substitute for your actual Abc permit. You are not eligible to work until you receive your official permit issued by the TABC.

Server Permit valid for 5 years. Wine Vender Clerk valid for one year. Designated manager permit valid for 5 years (updated rules and regs course required each year for the designated manager).