Tennessee Responsible Vendor Program (RVP)

Tennessee’s Responsible Vendor Program (RVP) is a mandatory statewide alcohol server training system. Anyone who sells, serves, mixes, or delivers alcoholic beverages must obtain a Tennessee Server Permit issued by the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC).

All new alcohol-service employees must complete an approved training course and obtain their server permit within 60 days of hire. Server permits are valid for 5 years, giving Tennessee one of the longest certification cycles in the nation.

Licensed establishments may conduct in-house training if they are certified as Responsible Vendors, or employees may complete training through TABC-approved public providers. Participation in RVP provides significant penalty mitigation for violations, particularly those involving underage sales.

Steps to Be Compliant in Tennessee:

1. Complete a TABC-approved server training course:
   All alcohol servers, bartenders, clerks, and managers must complete state-approved instruction covering Tennessee alcohol laws, ID verification, intoxication recognition, and refusal skills.
2. Obtain your Tennessee Server Permit:
   After completing the course and passing the exam, individuals apply for their official Server Permit through the TABC online system. The permit must be obtained within 60 days of hire.
3. Verify if your employer is a Responsible Vendor:
   Registered Responsible Vendors may conduct approved in-house training, provided they meet TABC standards and maintain documentation for audits.
4. Maintain training and renew every 5 years:
   Server permits and Responsible Vendor certifications must be renewed every five years. Employees must retake approved training prior to renewal.

Program Benefits:

1. Mandatory Statewide Compliance
Tennessee requires all alcohol servers to hold a valid state Server Permit. Without it, an employee cannot legally sell or serve alcohol.

2. Major Penalty Reductions for Responsible Vendors
Establishments certified as Responsible Vendors often receive reduced penalties for violations, especially sales to minors, as long as they maintain proper training and documentation.

3. Strong Protection for Licensees
RVP helps businesses reduce the likelihood of legal violations and demonstrates proactive compliance with Tennessee liquor laws.

4. Flexible Training Options
Vendors can choose to use TABC-approved public programs or, if registered as Responsible Vendors, conduct state-approved in-house training.

5. Long 5-Year Certification Cycle
Server permits are valid for five years, reducing training frequency and simplifying compliance tracking for operators.