In Mississippi there are no state regulations in place that require a server or bartender to be licensed in order to sell or serve alcohol. The only requirement is an age requirement which we cover below.
It is important to keep in mind some employers will require bartenders to complete alcohol-related training regardless of state or city laws as it may limit their liability.
If your employer requires you to receive a license, or you would like to get one to boost your potential to be hired, we suggest this affordable option from Serving Alcohol.
Minimum Age To Serve Alcoholic Beverages In Mississippi
For a beer only licensed premises, anyone who is legally employed may sell or handle beer.
For an ABC or alcohol licensed premises (most common), employees are required to be 21 years old. However, individuals may wait tables, take order, or deliver alcoholic beverages to tables at the age of 18 years old.
Qualifications to Work as a Bartender
To be employed in any capacity as a bartender in Mississippi, you cannot have a felony conviction within the past 3 years or have been convicted and incarcerated within the past 12 months.
Mississippi Wet/Dry Map
As a bartender in Mississippi, it is worth keeping up to date on which counties allow for the sale of alcohol. Unfortunately, the rules around which counties or cities are dry, half dry, fully wet, etc are very confusing to put it lightly. The easiest way to stay up to date on Mississippi wet/dry regulations is to use the map provided on the Department of Revenue website.
