Take these steps to get your

TABC (ABC) Server Permit Quickly & Easily!

Who is Required to Have a TN (Tennessee) ABC Server Permit?

Servers and Front of the House Managers where liquor-by-the-drink is sold. This would include restaurants, bars, caterers, etc. that serve individual drinks or open containers such as beers, glasses of wine, shots, cocktails, whatever. Having this permit allows you to serve alcohol anywhere in the state of TN.

Grocery/convenience store clerks or liquor store clerks, DO NOT TAKE THIS COURSE!

Step 1: The RLPS

What’s the RLPS?

Once you complete the application for your permit and paid your $20.00 application fee through the RLPS, you will get a receipt containing your RLPS number.

Where, you might ask, do I begin? First, go to tn.gov/abc

  1. Scroll down to the picture of a laptop with the letters RLPS on it. Click on it.
  2. Click the button that says Access RLPS.
  3. Choose Apply for a Server Permit (first timers) or Renew my License (multiple timers).
  4. Follow the prompts. Be prepared to upload a copy of your drivers license or valid photo ID (which can be from another state).
  5. Pay the Application Fee – you aren’t done until you have paid the TABC application fee.
  6. Your RLPS# begins with this current year. (Any RLPS# over one year will not be accepted by the TABC, you will need to start the process over.)

Step 2: Take a Course

Now what?

Go to trax.topshelfedu.com to log in or create an account

Purchase the TN Server Permit course.

Enter your RLPS# and away you go!

Course is self paced so you can exit and come back as needed at your convenience.

Step 3: Receive your Server Permit

When and how you get your TABC Server Permit

We submit scores daily to the TABC. It will probably take the TABC at least a couple of business days to be issued.

Effective January 1, 2025, permits will only be valid for 2 years!

Factors that can slow down the process

If there is a problem with, or questions about your application, such as a fuzzy picture of your ID, it will delay the issuance of your Permit.Sometimes the TABC randomly pulls an application for a background check. Until you know your permit is issued, check your emails and junk folder for TABC notifications. They will email you when your permit is ready or request other pertinent information if needed.If the TABC asks for more information, answer them promptly! If you don’t, they may deny your permit and force you to start the application process over.

Keep your RLPS log in information!

This is where the electronic copy of your permit lives, so if you need to print it, email it, you can log in and do so. The TABC also gives instructions on how to add your permit to your SmartPhone Wallet on their home screen.

NOTE: The TABC has certain requirements you must meet and those are listed in the FAQ, under public forms, on tn.gov/abc. If you have any question about whether or not you would qualify for a permit, call the TABC and ask. Your application and training fees are non-refundable. Make sure you meet the requirements before you start the process!