Disclaimer:
We're not lawyers—just friendly helpers! 🍻 This document isn’t intended to serve as legal advice. Alcohol laws are like recipes—every city, county, and state has its own unique regulations. For the most accurate guidance on local rules, reach out to your state liquor control board (they're the real experts here). While Certivance provides resources and keeps an eye on state-level regulations, always double-check with your local authorities—because even the best need a second opinion! 😉
Regulatory Contacts:
Colorado Department of Revenue
Liquor and Tobacco Enforcement Division
1707 Cole Blvd
Suite 300
Lakewood, CO 80401
Phone | 303-205-2300 |
Email: | Enforcement - [email protected] Licensing - [email protected] Policy - [email protected] |
Website: |
Service Facts:
Legal Drinking Age | 21 |
Age to Consume | 21 |
Service to Minors | 18 |
Employment of Minors | YES |
Age to Serve | Individuals aged 18 may serve alcohol if supervised by someone who is 21 or older, except in taverns and retail liquor stores. |
Age to Sell | 18 |
Age to Pour | 18 |
Age to Sell Packaged Alcohol | 18 |
State Training Program:
The Colorado Responsible Vendor Training Program (RVTP) was created to promote the responsible sale and service of alcoholic beverages in the state. The program aims to reduce alcohol-related harm by ensuring that employees who serve alcohol are well-versed in state liquor laws, the risks of over-serving customers, and how to prevent selling to underage individuals. By participating in the RVTP, businesses can foster a safer environment while meeting legal requirements for alcohol service.
Colorado's RVTP is designed for both servers and managers of licensed establishments that sell or serve alcohol. To participate, businesses must register with the state and ensure that their employees complete the training provided by an approved RVTP provider. This training typically covers essential topics such as understanding state alcohol laws, identifying signs of intoxication, and verifying age to prevent the sale of alcohol to minors. Once employees complete the program and pass the certification exam, they receive a Responsible Vendor certification that is valid for three years.
In addition to its educational component, the RVTP also serves as a way for businesses to potentially reduce penalties in the event of an alcohol violation. If a business is found to have violated state alcohol laws but has a valid Responsible Vendor certification, the penalties may be less severe, offering an incentive for compliance.
For businesses and employees, the RVTP is a valuable tool that supports the responsible service of alcohol and helps create a safer, more compliant environment for both patrons and the community. Certified employees not only ensure they are following state regulations but also contribute to reducing alcohol-related incidents and promoting responsible drinking practices.
State Program Facts:
Program Type | Voluntary |
Training Requirements | Training is voluntary at the state level, but certain localities have specific requirements. To qualify for mitigation benefits, only classroom training is accepted, and recertification is required every two years. Training must be completed within 90 days of hire. Boulder mandates classroom training, while Steamboat Springs and Eagle County require training with either online or classroom options. |
Certification Expiration | 3 Years |
Other Links:
Colorado Liquor Law | |
Colorado RVP |
Ready to elevate your skills? Enroll in our state-approved Certified Alcohol Training course today and start your journey toward mastering responsible alcohol service and ensuring compliance! 🍻🎓