AB-51 – Alcohol Awareness Training Requirements
What program providers, instructors, and retailers must do to comply with new training standards
What you need to know
- New standards apply to all alcohol awareness training programs
- A minimum of 3 hours of training is required
- Testing is now required for certification
- Program providers are responsible for instructor performance
Who This Applies To
This guidance applies to:
- Alcohol awareness program providers
- Alcohol awareness instructors
- Licensed alcohol retailers
Effective Date
- The regulation takes effect: March 1, 2007
Key New Requirements
Training Certificates
- Certificates must be issued by the program provider
- Instructors may no longer issue certificates independently
Minimum Training Hours
- Training must include at least 3 hours of instruction
- Instruction time must match the certified hours
Testing Requirement
All training programs must include:
- A face-to-face test with the instructor
- Verification of student identity
- A passing score to receive certification
Program Responsibility
Program providers are responsible for:
- Oversight of instructors
- Ensuring compliance with training standards
Training Formats
Training may be offered as:
- Classroom instruction
- Electronic (online) instruction
However:
- Separate approvals are required for each format
What This Means for Businesses
Program providers and instructors should:
- Update training programs to meet minimum hour requirements
- Add testing and identity verification processes
- Ensure certificates are issued correctly
- Obtain approval for all training formats used
Retailers should:
- Ensure employees complete compliant training programs
Important Notes
- These are mandatory requirements, not guidance
- All programs must comply by the effective date
- Failure to comply may result in enforcement action
Need Help?
For questions about training requirements, contact the ATCC: 410-260-7314 ext. 4 or [email protected]