BASSET Responsible Alcohol Server Training: Chicago restaurant guide

Illinois Liquor Control Commission

What it is

Illinois' mandatory responsible alcohol seller/server program. Under 235 ILCS 5/6-27.1 anyone who sells or serves open containers of alcohol at retail, or checks IDs for alcohol purchases, must hold a BASSET certificate (Cook County since July 1, 2015; statewide since July 1, 2018).

When a restaurant needs it

Every server, bartender and ID-checker, within 120 days after they begin employment.

How to apply

Have each employee complete a course from a BASSET-licensed trainer (see the ILCC trainer directory).

Documents you’ll need

BASSET card for each server/manager

Fee

Set by the trainer

Processing time

A few hours

Renewal

Certificates are valid for 3 years

Who files

Each employee takes the course; the licensee keeps the records.

Good to know

Check each hire's card with ILCC's BASSET Card Lookup (ilccportal.illinois.gov/s/basset-search). The 120-day window and 3-year validity are set by state law.

Official source

ILCC — BASSET program · 235 ILCS 5/6-27.1 — alcohol server training

Get your personalized Chicago permit plan

Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.

Build my free plan

Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.