Washington, D.C. Alcohol Awareness Training (ABRA-Approved)

The District of Columbia requires all alcohol managers to complete ABRA-approved Alcohol Awareness Training in order to obtain and maintain an ABC Manager License. This license is required for anyone acting in a managerial or supervisory capacity in any alcohol-licensed establishment.

Alcohol Awareness Training certificates issued by ABRA-approved providers are valid for 3 years. Managers must renew their training and their ABC Manager License prior to expiration to remain compliant.

While servers, bartenders, and sellers are not required by DC law to complete alcohol awareness training, many employers choose to provide voluntary training to reduce risk, strengthen ID-verification practices, and improve safe-service operations.

Steps to Be Compliant in Washington, D.C.:

1. Complete an ABRA-approved Alcohol Awareness Training course:
   Training covers DC alcohol laws, prohibited sales, acceptable IDs, intoxication indicators, refusal skills, and manager responsibilities.
2. Apply for the ABC Manager License:
   After completing training, individuals submit their certification and application to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA / formerly ABRA).
3. Maintain active certification and license:
   Both the Alcohol Awareness certificate and the Manager License must be kept valid and available on-site for inspection.
4. Renew every 3 years:
   Managers must complete updated ABRA-approved training every 3 years to renew their license.

Program Benefits:

1. Mandatory Compliance for Managers
DC law requires Alcohol Awareness Training for anyone holding or applying for an ABC Manager License.

2. Reduced Risk & Stronger Oversight
Certified managers help ensure ongoing compliance with DC alcohol laws, reducing violations related to underage sales and overservice.

3. Supports Safe-Service Establishment Policies
Even though server training is not required, employers often adopt voluntary training to create consistent safe-service standards across all staff.

4. Improved Legal & Operational Protection
Properly trained managers help protect licensed establishments from civil liability, regulatory penalties, and costly enforcement actions.

5. Clear 3-Year Renewal Cycle
The defined renewal cycle helps businesses track training and license compliance easily.