Bartending Certificates & Licenses
When you graduate you receive both a nationally recognized alcohol management certification and a certificate from the school - both included in tuition.
Two Credentials, One Program
When you graduate from PBS you receive both credentials at no additional cost. They are part of the program.
PBS School Certificate
Regulated by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Our comprehensive bartending credential demonstrates mastery of 150+ recipes, bar operations, and professional service standards. This certificate tells employers you have been trained to work behind a real bar.
TAM Certification
Techniques of Alcohol Management. Nationally recognized, valid for 3 years. TAM is the number one alcohol management program in Maryland.
- Professional and ethical conduct when serving alcohol
- Techniques for reducing alcohol-related incidents
- Prevention of illegal sales to minors
Regional Requirements
Alcohol management certification requirements vary by jurisdiction. Here is what you need to know for the DMV area.
Maryland
Maryland requires at least one TAM-certified employee at establishments serving alcohol. Montgomery, Howard, Hartford, Kent Counties and Annapolis require certified staff to be on the premises during all hours of alcohol service.
Washington DC
Washington DC has similar mandatory certification requirements for establishments serving alcohol. Having your TAM certification makes you immediately employable at any DC venue.
Virginia
Virginia encourages but does not mandate alcohol management certification. However, most employers strongly prefer hiring certified bartenders, and having your TAM card gives you a significant edge in the job market.
PBS has a TAM Trainer of Trainers on staff and has been providing TAM training for over two decades.
Group TAM Training
We also provide group TAM training for bars, clubs, restaurants, and hotels throughout the DC region. If your establishment needs certified staff, we can come to you or host your team at our facility.
Get Certified and Get Hired
Both your PBS certificate and TAM certification are included in tuition. Graduate ready to work anywhere in the DMV.