Most frequently asked BASSET questions

A: BASSET stands for Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training. The Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) is the licensing and regulatory authority for all seller/server training programs in the State of Illinois. The Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) licenses, approves and administers seller/server training programs that are recognized as a BASSET approved program. Visit the BASSET Program page for more information about Illinois’ responsible beverage service program.

A: Email the ILCC BASSET program at lcc.basset@illinois.gov and have proof of identification to verify certification through a licensed BASSET provider. Those trained by a BASSET-approved provider since May 2015 can print their own card via the BASSET Card Lookup web feature.

A: The first step in preventing underage sales is to ask for an ID. If the customer does not have an ID - then don’t sell. The Illinois driver’s license and state ID formats make the determination of a customter's age relatively easy. If an ID has a vertical orientation it means the individual is considered a minor for alcohol and/or tobacco. Look on the side of their photo, and the date the individual turns 18 and/or 21 is shown. Most importantly, make sure you make a determination that the person in the ID photo is the person handing you the ID. To learn more about how to properly check ID’s, plan on enrolling you and your employees in a BASSET class. Visit the BASSET Program page on this website to learn more about this program.

A: As of July 1, 2018 all on-premise alcohol servers (and those required to check identification for alcohol service) are mandated to take BASSET.

A: State-licensed BASSET programs provide training in areas ranging from prevention/intervention strategies to age-verification techniques. Participants will know how to recognize when a patron is intoxicated and has been over served. Servers will be taught behavioral cues and signs to spot when someone is intoxicated. They will be taught what to say and how to handle an intoxicated patron to discontinue service of alcohol at a liquor establishment. Training programs properly instruct sellers/servers regarding age-verification techniques, which can deter underage sales and service.

A: The objectives of the BASSET program are to adequately train and educate sellers and servers to serve alcohol responsibly. By properly training the alcoholic beverage industry through BASSET programs, the number of drunk driving fatalities could decrease, and can reduce sales and service to minors. Ultimately, seller/server training will keep liquor establishments and communities safer.

A: For on-premise establishments (bars, restaurants, taverns, night clubs and banquet halls), BASSET training is 4 hours long. For off-premise establishments (grocery stores, convenient stores, gas stations and liquor stores), training must be at least 3 hours in length.

A: Cost of training varies since it is left up to the free market. Licensed BASSET providers can charge as much as $50 or more for training, which can be paid by the seller/server or the business owner.

A: The licensed BASSET provider is required to issue a temporary certificate of completion upon passage of the examination. Licensed BASSET providers must send a roster to the ILCC to grant state-issued BASSET cards to participants. It is prerogative of the licensed BASSET provider, participant, or employer to request where they want their state-issued BASSET card sent.

A: As of July 1, 2015, BASSET cards are good for three years from the date of issuance.

For example, a BASSET cardholder who was certified on May 15, 2014 would need to renew by May 15, 2017.

A: There are some insurance companies that will reduce your liquor liability if your entire staff is BASSET trained.

A: There are over 200 licensed BASSET providers throughout Illinois. Licensed BASSET providers come from a wide range of backgrounds. Trainers consist of independent contractors, businesses, hotel/restaurant chains, police departments, insurance agencies, colleges, and universities. To view the complete list and sign up for a class, please visit the Licensed BASSET Providers web page

A: In order to conduct seller/server training in the state of Illinois, an entity or individual must have a BASSET license. A person must complete an instructor training course and pass an exam. When the instructor training is completed, application for a BASSET license must be filled out and accompanied by a check for $350.00. Enclosed must be a copy of your certificate and course materials. The instructor training programs on the ILCC website have an affidavit that must be filled out and notarized in lieu of sending the course materials. The BASSET license is good for one year, and a renewal notice will be sent seven weeks prior to expiration. Click on BASSET License to download an application.

A: There are online training program available on our website, however some Illinois municipalities may not accept online programs. Check with your local ordinances first. It is recommended to enroll in a live classroom the first time taking a BASSET course. Online.pdf