How to Get a Tam Card

TAM programs educate servers of alcoholic beverages in states such as Nevada.

Techniques in Alcohol Management is a short course designed to educate customer service employees in how to spot underage drinking and how to deal with alcohol-related incidents, such as serving intoxicated individuals. The TAM program is available through private organizations or through the liquor boards of several states. Successful completion of the course and the exam that follows it entitles the student to a TAM card demonstrating that he or she has been trained in alcohol management issues.

Instructions

1. Register for a TAM course. If you are taking the course as a condition of employment, ask your employer which company or organization you should go to in order to get the TAM card. For example, TAM Nevada provides both online and classroom instruction. The Licensed Beverage Dealers of South Dakota requires a course involving three hours worth of instruction.

2. Attend the course or seminar in person. You also may be able to complete the course online. Pay close attention to the information conveyed during the session and take notes to help remember important aspects of the material.

3. Take the exam that is based on the course material. Classroom courses will finish the course with the exam. Online students -- such as those taking instruction through TAM Nevada -- will have to go to the organization's testing center in order to complete the exam.

4. Achieve the score required on the exam to receive your TAM card. In South Dakota, for example, students must achieve a score of 75% or higher on the 20-question test.

5. Receive your TAM card from the course administrators after you pass your exam. The validity of the TAM card varies according to state. For example, in South Dakota certification is valid for four years.

References

• TAM Nevada: The History of TAM Cards in Nevada
• TAM Nevada: Alcohol Awareness Class Enrollment
• Licensed Beverage Dealers of South Dakota: Techniques of Alcohol Management