Food Handler vs Alcohol Server
Food Handler certification covers safe food handling and preparation. Alcohol Server (RBS/TIPS) certification covers responsible alcohol service, ID verification, and intoxication recognition. Both are entry-level certifications with similar difficulty and cost.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Food Handler | Alcohol Server |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Food Handler Certification | Responsible Alcohol Server (RBS/TIPS) |
| Exam Cost | $7-$25 | $20-$50 |
| Passing Score | 70-75% | 70-80% |
| Questions | 40 multiple-choice | 40-50 multiple-choice |
| Time Limit | 60-90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Study Time | 2-3 hours | 2-4 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Prerequisites | None | Usually 18+ years old |
| Exam Body | ANSI-Accredited Providers | State ABC/TIPS/ServSafe |
Key Differences
- 1Food Handler: food safety focus; Alcohol Server: alcohol liability focus
- 2Food Handler required for food establishments; Alcohol Server required for alcohol service
- 3Food Handler: $7-$25; Alcohol Server: $20-$50
- 4Food Handler valid 2-5 years; Alcohol Server valid 2-5 years (varies by state)
- 5Food Handler covers cross-contamination, temperatures; Alcohol Server covers ID checking, intoxication signs
- 6Both typically take 1-3 hours to complete course and exam
- 7Many hospitality jobs require BOTH certifications
What Each Exam Allows You To Do
Food Handler
- Handle, prepare, and serve food safely
- Meet state/local food worker requirements
- Work as server, cook, dishwasher, prep cook
- Demonstrate food safety knowledge to employers
Alcohol Server
- Legally serve alcohol in licensed establishments
- Check IDs and recognize fake identification
- Identify signs of intoxication
- Refuse service appropriately
- Protect establishment from liability
Who Should Take Each Exam?
Take the Food Handler if you...
- →Restaurant servers and kitchen staff
- →Fast food employees
- →Cafeteria and deli workers
- →Anyone handling food professionally
Take the Alcohol Server if you...
- →Bartenders and bar staff
- →Restaurant servers at alcohol-serving venues
- →Nightclub and event staff
- →Retail alcohol sellers
Which Should You Take First?
Get whichever your job requires first. If you're working at a restaurant that serves alcohol, you'll likely need both within your first 30-60 days. Many workers complete both in the same day since each only takes 1-3 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
QDo I need both certifications?
It depends on your job. Restaurants that serve alcohol typically require both. Fast food or cafeterias usually only need Food Handler. Bars and nightclubs primarily need Alcohol Server, but may also require Food Handler if food is served.
QCan I get both on the same day?
Yes! Each certification only takes 1-3 hours. Many providers offer bundled courses. You could complete both in a single afternoon for $30-$75 total.
QWhich states require these certifications?
Food Handler is required in about 10 states statewide (CA, TX, FL, etc.) plus many counties. Alcohol Server (RBS) is required or strongly encouraged in most states - California made RBS mandatory in 2022 for all alcohol servers.
QHow long are these certifications valid?
Both typically last 2-5 years depending on your state. Texas Food Handler is 2 years; California is 3 years. California RBS is valid for 3 years. Check your specific state requirements for renewal timing.
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