Minot’s Responsible Beverage Server Training Requirement Takes Effect January 1st, 2027

Beginning January 1st, 2027, the City of Minot’s updated Responsible Beverage Server (RBS) ordinance will make approved alcohol server training a mandatory requirement for employees working in licensed alcohol establishments.

While RBS training has been included in the local health department’s food code since 2019, the updated Chapter 5 alcohol ordinance formally establishes this requirement at the city level. Businesses should prepare now to ensure their employees meet the new training requirements.

Who Needs Responsible Beverage Server Training?

The ordinance applies to employees of licensed alcohol establishments whose job duties involve:

  • Selling, serving or delivering alcohol.
  • Managing alcohol sales.
  • Checking identification for alcohol purchases.
  • Checking identification for admission to an establishment.

If an employee’s responsibilities include any of these duties, they may be required to complete an approved RBS training course.

What Are the Training Requirements?

Here’s what Minot businesses and employees need to know:

  • Effective date: January 1, 2027.
  • Training deadline: Employees must successfully complete an approved training course within 90 days of beginning their employment.
  • Initial transition period: Businesses that cannot have all employees trained by January 1, 2027, will have a 90-day window into 2027 to complete training.
  • Certification validity: Certificates remain valid for three years.

Where Can You Complete Approved Training?

  • North Dakota Safety Council (NDSC)

The North Dakota Safety Council is an approved Responsible Beverage Server training provider and offers a convenient online course that takes approximately one hour to complete. Employees can complete the training online, making it a flexible option for busy businesses and staff.

Explore NDSC’s Responsible Beverage Server Online Training to get started: https://www.ndsc.org/impairment-responsible-beverage-server-servers-bartenders/

  • First District Health Unit (FDHU)

Offers classroom-style training. You can review updates and register for an in-person training directly on the First District Health Unit website: https://fdhu.org/harm-reduction/responsible-beverage-server-training/

Get Ready for the January 1st Deadline

With the new ordinance taking effect soon, now is the time for Minot businesses to review employee responsibilities, identify who needs training and plan for completion.

Completing training early can help your team stay prepared, support responsible alcohol service and ensure your business is ready for the updated city requirements.