Host Duties & Bartender Roles: Navigating Alcohol Licensing

Bartender Duties:

• Serve alcohol to guests.
• Adhere to state alcohol laws.
• Understand responsible service practices.
• Identify and manage intoxicated guests.

Host Duties:

• Obtain necessary documents and licenses from the venue.
• Ensure legal compliance for alcohol service at the event.
• Coordinate with the venue for liquor procurement.
• Oversee overall event organization including alcohol service logistics.

Additional Information:

For questions and help related to the online licensing system, please contact Virginia ABC at abc-pst@virginiaabc.com or (844) 694-9965

One day licenses are required for persons or organizations who host events where alcohol is served in an unlicensed location or club premises. 

In Virginia, bartenders and servers do not require a specific "bartending license" to serve alcohol. The concept of a bartending license as a mandatory requirement is not a standard practice in Virginia or in many other states.

In summary, while bartenders in Virginia do not need a "bartending license" to serve alcohol, they must be knowledgeable about state alcohol laws and responsible service practices, and they must work in establishments that hold a valid liquor license.

Bottom Line:

In Virginia, event hosts must hold the alcohol license and purchase the alcohol. We'll help submit the One-Day Alcohol Application, call 30 days before your event. Submit early; the final deadline is 14 days prior. The license should be displayed on the mobile bar on the event date. Apply here: Virginia ABC One-Day Banquet License.