I need a "licensed bartender". Can I get these from you?

There is no such thing as a "licensed bartender” in California. Companies, restaurants, liquor stores, bars, etc. are required by ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) to be licensed and their employees are covered under that establishments’ license. The intent of a liquor license is to enable ABC to monitor the consumption of alcohol in any specified area and for the safety of the establishment, its staff and the community in which the license is issued. To regulate, control and if necessary restrict or revoke privileges of alcohol consumption if problems arise and/or help determine whether civil or criminal action may be taken against said licensee and/or its employees. In other words “Make alcohol sellers and servers responsible for their actions”. Because of this new awareness that bartenders and hosts can be found liable, some private party bartenders and hosts who plan to sell or serve alcohol choose to carry their own liquor liability insurance to protect themselves and patrons from possible lawsuits due to an alcohol related incident. (But are not required to do so.) Bartenders and hosts can also apply to ABC for a Special Events “Daily On Sale General License” for parties/events to protect themselves from lawsuits, but once again depending on location and scope of the event/party, not necessarily required. Most commonly desired are “Certified Bartenders” because they are trained to keep everyone safe and under control. They know it is illegal to serve alcohol to any minor or VIP (Visibly Intoxicated Person) or allow a VIP to continue to consume alcohol. Therefore, if the server obeys the law whether employed under a licensed establishment or are on their own, they Cannot be found Responsible or “Liable”. Which is why California’s ABC does not require an individual (bartender) to be “Licensed”. ABC simply desires proper training offered through their ABC Lead program or registered with the State of CA Approved Bartending Schools. Therefore, Licensing is more of an insurance protection from lawsuits issue rather than are the bartenders competent and professional.
So, shorter answer......Your "Certificate of Completion" from a CA Professional Bartending School is your proof of being a so-called "Licensed Bartender." But what they want is a bit more...they are requesting a bartender that will acquire an ABC Special Events Permit for their party and has a Liqour liability insurance policy for protection against lawsuits. These are not hard to obtain...simply contact ABC for the forms and incorporate the insurance. Then not only can you worry less, but obtain more jobs without your customers having to worry!!!
Cheers,
John