The Responsible Beverage Server (RBS) training is a course designed for any employee, volunteer or other person working in an establishment that sells or serves alcohol. Trainers will cover how to properly check an ID, how to spot a fake ID, how many ounces are in a drink for different types of alcohol, and tips on helping identify an intoxicated customer. They will review North Dakota state laws and local ordinances regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol, the responsibilities and legal liabilities of a server and owner, and policies and procedures to avoid the sales and serving of alcohol to minors. Studies show RBS training is effective in reducing the serving/sale of alcohol to minors and raises server and owner awareness about their responsibilities and the legal liabilities of over-serving.
2026 Classes
Classes are offered at our Minot location, South building, Tuesdays from 5:30pm – 7:30pm on the following dates:
January 13
February 10
March 10
April 14
May 12
June 9
August 11
September 8
October 13
November 10
Frequently asked questions:
Why do I need this training?
The First District Health Unit Board of Health Food Code sets requirements for establishments that provide on-site consumption of beverages containing alcohol. The Food Code requires that business owners/license holders of an establishment that provides on-site consumption of beverages containing alcohol, and any “employee” who handles, mixes, serves, sells, or is involved in the transaction of alcohol, have RBS certification. These individuals may be required to show proof of certification while on duty, if requested.
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Who is required to have RBS certification?
Any “employee” of an establishment that provides on-site consumption of beverages containing alcohol is required to have RBS certification. Under the First District Health Unit Food Code, “employee” means the license holder, their designated person in charge, a person having supervisory or management duties, a person on the payroll, a family member, a volunteer, a person performing work under contractual agreement, or any other person working in or engaged in any food/alcohol production process or any other activity pertinent to operation in the establishment. This includes owners, license holders, managers, paid employees, family members, volunteers, contracted workers, and other individuals participating in a transaction involving alcohol.
Although not required, RBS training is strongly recommended for business owners and employees of establishments that offer the off-site sale of alcohol. Studies show RBS training is effective in reducing the serving and sale of alcohol to minors and raises server and owner awareness about their responsibilities and the legal liabilities associated with over-serving.
What additional requirements will apply in the City of Minot?
January 1, 2027, a new City of Minot alcohol ordinance will take effect that establishes mandatory alcohol server training requirements for employees of establishments licensed to sell alcoholic beverages. Under the ordinance, employees must successfully complete approved server training within 90 days of beginning work if their job duties include:
- Selling, serving, or delivering alcoholic beverages
- Managing the sale or service of alcoholic beverages
- Checking identification for the purchase of alcoholic beverages
- Checking identification for admission into a licensed premises
- Other duties where the employee may sell, serve, or deliver alcoholic beverages
Training must be provided by the First District Health Unit or a trainer approved by the First District Health Unit. Certificates issued under the City of Minot ordinance are valid for three years.
Establishments should be aware that the FDHU Food Code and the City of Minot alcohol ordinance have different requirements and timelines. The City of Minot requirements take effect January 1, 2027.
What is considered an approved Responsible Beverage Server training?
First District Health Unit offers an approved classroom-style training course. The North Dakota Safety Council also offers an online course. A course is accepted if it has been established in the State of North Dakota to comply with a city or county ordinance that requires beverage server training.
How much does the class cost?
The fee to attend First District Health Unit’s RBS course is $15.00 per person. You can find the North Dakota Safety Council course pricing online.
Can I schedule an onsite training at my business?
Arrangements can be made to host an on-site class at your business. The cost is a minimum fee of $300.00 plus mileage. This minimum fee includes the $15 fee for each individual attending the course.
How long is the class?
The RBS training course can be between 2–4 hours, depending on the participation of the attendees. Generally, it is a two-hour training.
Is there a test?
Yes. At the beginning of class, a pre-test is administered. After the training is finished, you will be given the same test to complete on your own. Certification does require a passing grade.
How long is the certification valid?
RBS certification is good for three years from the test date. Because there is a 5-point penalty in the FDHU Food Code for failure to show proof of certification, your employer may require a copy of your certificate to be kept on-site.