Top 5 Reasons You Need BASSET Certification Today
Are you a server, bartender, store employee, or manager in Illinois who sells or serves alcohol? If so, then you need to be BASSET certified. BASSET stands for Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training. It is a mandatory training program for all alcohol servers and sellers in the state of Illinois.
What is BASSET Certification?
BASSET certification is a program designed to educate alcohol servers and sellers about the responsible sale and service of alcohol. The program covers topics such as:
- Illinois liquor laws
- Identifying and preventing underage drinking
- Recognizing signs of intoxication
- Handling difficult customers
- Preventing alcohol-related incidents
Why You Need BASSET Certification
There are many benefits to becoming BASSET certified. Here are the top 5 reasons why you need BASSET certification in Illinois:
1. To comply with Illinois law
As of July 1, 2018, all on-premise alcohol servers in Illinois (and those required to check identification for alcohol service) are required to take the BASSET course. This law is in place to help protect the public from the dangers of selling or serving alcohol to minors and intoxicated people. If you are caught selling or serving alcohol without a valid BASSET certification, you could face fines and other penalties.
2. To prevent underage drinking
Underage drinking is a serious problem in Illinois. According to the Illinois Department of Human Services, alcohol is a factor in 43% of all fatal car crashes involving young people. BASSET training teaches you how to identify and prevent underage drinking. This includes checking IDs, refusing service to minors, and dealing with intoxicated customers.
3. To reduce alcohol-related incidents
Alcohol-related incidents, such as drunk driving accidents and fights, can have devastating consequences. BASSET training can help you to reduce the risk of these incidents occurring at your establishment. You will learn how to recognize signs of intoxication, how to cut people off from alcohol service, and how to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations.
4. To protect your business from liability
If someone is injured or killed as a result of alcohol served at your establishment, your business could be held liable. BASSET certification can help to protect your business from these types of lawsuits. By demonstrating that you have taken steps to train your staff on responsible alcohol service, you can reduce your risk of liability.
5. To improve customer service
BASSET training can help you to improve your customer service skills. You will learn how to interact with customers in a professional and responsible manner. This can help to create a positive experience for your customers and encourage them to return to your establishment.
How to Get BASSET Certified in Illinois
Getting BASSET certified in Illinois is easy with BASSET On The Fly. It’s an affordable online course that’s self-paced and can be completed at your convenience. Once you have completed the training course, you will need to pass a test. You must score at least 70% to pass.
After you pass the test, you’ll receive your temporary BASSET card, which is valid for 30 days. The Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) will issue your official 3-year BASSET card within that 30-day period.
BASSET On The Fly | Your Fastest, Best and Most Enjoyable Avenue to BASSET Certification
BASSET certification is an important requirement for anyone who sells or serves alcohol in Illinois. By becoming BASSET certified, you can help prevent underage drinking, reduce alcohol-related incidents, and protect your business from liability. You can also improve your customer service skills and demonstrate your commitment to responsible alcohol service.
If you are not already BASSET certified, we encourage you to sign up for a training course today. BASSET On The Fly offers a convenient and affordable online BASSET training course that can be completed at your own pace. Visit us online today to learn more!
Frequently Asked Questions About BASSET Certification
Who needs to be BASSET certified?
Anyone who sells, serves, or delivers alcoholic beverages at an on-premise establishment in Illinois must be BASSET certified. This includes bartenders, servers, waitstaff, and managers.
How long does it take to get BASSET certified?
Our online On-Premise and Off-Premise BASSET certification courses are self-paced with no timer prohibiting you from moving forward. You may proceed through the course as quickly or slowly as you’d like. Our courses meet all ILCC requirements regarding content and length. Per ILCC rules, the On-Premise course is equivalent to 4 hours and the Off-Premise course is equivalent to 3 hours.
How much does BASSET certification cost?
The cost of BASSET certification varies depending on the provider. At BASSET On The Fly, our online BASSET certification course is only $12.99 with no taxes or additional fees. That’s been our price since we launched our course in 2019.
How long is my BASSET certification valid?
Your BASSET certification is valid for three years from the date of completion.
What happens if I don’t get BASSET certified?
If you are caught selling or serving alcohol without a valid BASSET certification, you could face fines and other penalties. Your employer could also be held liable.
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