Individuals beginning employment in the food service sector in Savannah, Georgia, must secure specific local government certification to comply with regulations governing the sale and service of alcoholic beverages. This requirement ensures responsible alcohol practices and maintains public safety across licensed establishments. Understanding the timeline for completing this training is important to avoid compliance issues upon starting a new position.
The Mandatory Training Deadline for Servers
New employees required to handle or serve alcohol must complete the necessary training and obtain the official permit within seven days of the date of hire. This brief window is a strict regulatory constraint placed on both the employee and the licensed establishment to ensure rapid compliance.
The seven-day deadline is a non-negotiable requirement for all eligible staff. Any employee who fails to complete the necessary training and secure their permit within this time is not legally permitted to continue working in a capacity that involves the sale or service of alcohol. The immediacy of this requirement emphasizes the high priority the city places on responsible beverage service.
Identifying the Specific Savannah Training Requirement
The specific certification needed is the City of Savannah Server Training Permit Card (STPC). This permit is mandated by the local government’s Code of Ordinances, Chapter 6, which governs alcoholic beverages. The process requires an applicant to register for a standardized, city-approved alcohol awareness course and successfully pass an assessment.
The curriculum for the Server Training Permit is comprehensive, covering city ordinances that govern alcohol compliance, as well as relevant state and federal laws. The training includes instruction on identifying and preventing human trafficking and sexual assault. Applicants must achieve a minimum passing score of 80% on the assessment to receive the certificate of completion necessary for the permit application.
Scope of Employee Requirement
The Server Training Permit mandate extends beyond traditional servers, encompassing a wide range of positions within licensed establishments. This includes all managers, bartenders, and any other employee or subcontractor whose duties involve mixing, dispensing, or handling alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption. Staff members like doorpersons and private security guards are often required to obtain the permit.
For businesses that sell packaged alcohol, such as package stores, the requirement applies to all employees engaged in the direct sale of alcohol to customers. This mandate is distinct from a general food handler permit, focusing solely on the legal and safe handling of alcoholic products.
Maintaining Certification and Avoiding Penalties
The Server Training Permit Card is generally valid for five years from the date of issuance. The city may require additional training, webinars, or workshops more frequently to maintain proficiency in updated regulations. Licensees must maintain an up-to-date register of all employees who hold the permit and must present proof of current certification upon request.
Failure to adhere to the seven-day deadline or allowing a permit to expire results in consequences for both the employee and the establishment. An employee working without a current permit may face fines and the immediate loss of their ability to work in that role. Establishments face a violation of the city ordinance, which can lead to compliance actions ranging from substantial fines to the suspension or revocation of their alcohol license.