In this dynamic and fast-changing environment of the food and beverage industry in Illinois, responsible alcohol service is a must. TIPS, or the Training for Intervention Procedures Certification program, better known as BASSET, or the Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training, leads the way for knowledge and responsibility in the world of alcohol service. This course, designed specifically for the unique needs of Illinois, is an important building block in the state’s effort to ensure safe, legal, and responsible alcohol practices. By passing a TIPS course you will be certified in both TIPS and BASSET.

TIPS/BASSET Certification is more than a credential; it’s a holistic educational experience that provides the skill and knowledge professionals in the industry need to address the complexities of responsible alcohol service. This training program not only complies with the state’s legal mandates but goes above and beyond to foster a culture of vigilance, ethics, and social consciousness among those entrusted with the service and sale of alcoholic beverages. TIPS is an Illinois Liquor Control Commission approved Basset program.

What Is BASSET and What Does It Mean and how is it Related with Illinois Alcohol Certification?

BASSSET stands for Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training. It is a state-approved and required course for anyone selling or serving alcoholic beverages in Illinois to learn Illinois liquor laws and do it responsibly. Serving Alcohol provides the most state of Illinois preferred Basset certification.

What are the Features of TIPS (Basset) Training Course?

Basset Training courses are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for responsible beverage service in the food and beverage industry in Illinois. The courses were developed with a goal to ensure the establishments and employees involved in the training are legally compliant with the state of Illinois and local alcohol laws and regulations regarding age verification and hours of sale. They focus on responsible alcohol service practices, demonstrating to participants how to identify the signs of intoxication and providing them with the skills to refuse service when necessary. The course also defines the effects of alcohol on the body and behavior, which helps one understand more about how alcohol affects customers.

Why You Should Get Illinois Alcohol Certification, Specifically BASSET/TIPS, and What Are the Benefits?

Basset/TIPS Certification offers many strong reasons to consider for those in the food and beverage industry. This Illinois-tailored certification program is the significant step toward responsible alcohol service. Besides meeting state and local laws, one will be able to acquire knowledge and skills through BASSET Certification that will help them immensely in their career and community safety.

The major advantages that BASSET Certification can give are related to legal compliance. This certification equips a person with adequate knowledge regarding the alcohol laws in Illinois so as to avoid fines and penalties with regard to underage drinking, over-service of alcoholic beverages, among others. Having BASSET Certification does matter for people intending to venture into the hospitality business and looking to make a difference in being employed. Many establishments have required all their staff members to become BASSET/TIPS certified as a proactive measure against legal issues stemming from illegal alcohol service and consumption.

Who needs TIPS/BASSET Certification? 

TIPS and BASSET certification is advised or mandatory for individuals who serve or sell alcoholic beverages in:

• Bartenders 
• Barbacks
• Servers & Wait Staff
• Restaurant / Bar Managers
• Restaurant / Bar Owners & Managers
• Store Managers, Supervisors, & Owners
• Liquor & Convenience Store Clerks.

What is the big difference between On-Premise and Off-Premise Training?

On-premise, refers to the sale and service of alcoholic beverages within the walls of an establishment—be it a restaurant, bar, or nightclub—with people such as bartenders and servers actively involved in the process.

Off-Premise. This refers only to the retail sale of alcoholic beverages. These are normally sold by clerks in a grocery store, convenience store, or liquor store to a customer for off-site consumption, and the business is not normally involved in service or consumption within the premises.

For How Long is this Certification Good?

TIPS/BASSET Certification is good for 3 years from the date of its successful completion.

What’s the Minimum Age to Serve and Sell Alcohol in Illinois?

A server or seller has to be at least 18 years of age; however, local ordinances can further regulate server age. For instance, in Chicago, sellers/servers are supposed to be 21, by the definition of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC).