North Carolina RASP – Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Program

The North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (NC ABC) offers the RASP training program to business owners, managers, servers and sellers of alcoholic beverages. The program is free (for in-person NC ABC sessions) and online versions are available. While it is not strictly mandated for all servers statewide, RASP is strongly encouraged, and many employers and local licensing authorities expect certification. Most approved providers list certificate validity for approximately 3 years.

Steps to Be Compliant in North Carolina:

1. Check your employer/licensing requirements:
   Even though RASP is voluntary statewide, many employers and local licensing authorities require certification.
2. Register for an approved RASP training course:
   NC ABC offers free in-person training (about 2 hours) and there are approved online versions too.
3. Complete the course and obtain your certificate:
   After training, get your certificate of completion and provide it to your employer if required.
4. Maintain your certificate and plan for renewal:
   Track your certificate’s expiry (often ~3 years) and retake or refresh training as needed.

Program Benefits:

1. Reduced Liability & Risk Exposure
Training helps staff understand North Carolina alcohol laws, recognize intoxication and check IDs properly, reducing risks of illegal sales and license issues.

2. Meets Employer & Licensing Expectations
Many employers and local licensing authorities prefer or require RASP certification even when the state does not mandate it for all servers.

3. Standardized Training Across Staff
Ensures servers, sellers and managers receive consistent instruction on laws, safe service, refusal skills and responsible practices.

4. Free or Low-Cost Access
The NC ABC offers free in-person training; online versions are affordable and widely available.

5. Clear Renewal Cycle (~3 Years)
A three-year certificate validity gives your team a predictable training and renewal schedule.