Disclaimer:
We're not lawyers—just friendly helpers! 🍻 This document isn’t intended to serve as legal advice. Alcohol laws are like recipes—every city, county, and state has its own unique regulations. For the most accurate guidance on local rules, reach out to your state liquor control board (they're the real experts here). While Certivance provides resources and keeps an eye on state-level regulations, always double-check with your local authorities—because even the best need a second opinion! 😉
Regulatory Contacts:
Alcohol, Tobacco and Cannabis Commission for the State of Maryland
1215 East Fort Ave
Suite 300
Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone | 443-300-6990 |
Email: | |
Website: |
Service Facts:
Legal Drinking Age | 21 |
Age to Consume | 21 |
Service to Minors | No |
Employment of Minors | Yes |
Age to Serve | 18 for beer and wine |
Age to Sell | 21 |
Age to Pour | 18 for beer and wine, 21 for liquor or class D license |
Age to Sell Packaged Alcohol | 21 |
State Training Program:
In Maryland, the Alcohol Awareness Program is designed to educate individuals involved in the sale and service of alcoholic beverages. The program focuses on preventing underage drinking, recognizing signs of intoxication, and understanding the state's alcohol laws. This training is required for anyone working as a server, seller, or manager in establishments that sell or serve alcohol.
Under Maryland law, certain jurisdictions require employees to complete an approved alcohol training program. For example, some counties, such as Montgomery and Prince George's, mandate that all alcohol servers obtain certification through an accredited course. The program typically covers key topics like checking IDs, handling intoxicated customers, and managing alcohol-related situations.
Training providers in Maryland offer both in-person and online options for completing the course, which generally takes several hours. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate that is valid for a specific period (often three years). The goal of the program is to ensure that alcohol service is done in a responsible and legal manner, reducing the risk of alcohol-related issues and violations for both employees and businesses.
Employers may be required to keep records of employees who have completed the training, and some businesses may have additional in-house training requirements. Overall, the Alcohol Awareness Program helps foster a safer environment by ensuring that alcohol servers and sellers are well-informed and equipped to handle their responsibilities.
State Program Facts:
Program Type | Mandatory |
Training Requirements | The holder of any retail alcoholic beverages license, or an employee designated by the holder, must complete training in an approved alcohol awareness program, as required by MD AL BEV § 3-504. |
Certification Expiration | 4 Years |
Other Links:
Maryland Liquor Law |
Ready to elevate your skills? Enroll in our state-approved Certified Alcohol Training course today and start your journey toward mastering responsible alcohol service and ensuring compliance! 🍻🎓