Expired cards, failed exams, out-of-state transfers, last-minute hires, these are the questions that come up when something goes sideways. Answers below, with NRS citations where they matter.

New to this? Start with our complete ACT card guide.

Do I need an ACT card to work in Nevada?

Yes, if you serve, sell, or provide security at an alcohol-serving establishment in Clark County or Washoe County. NRS 369.630 requires alcohol awareness training in any Nevada county with a population over 100,000. Right now that means Clark County (Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas) and Washoe County (Reno, Sparks).

Smaller counties don't require it at the state level, but your employer might. Plenty of hospitality companies enforce training company-wide regardless of location.

What is an ACT card?

ACT stands for Alcohol Compliance Training, a state-mandated certification that you've completed alcohol awareness training and passed a proctored exam under NRS 369.630.

You'll also hear it called a TAM card, AAT card, AES card, or just "alcohol card." Different providers, different branding, same legal requirement. If a job posting says "TAM card required," any CPE-approved provider's card counts.

How long is the ACT card valid?

4 years from the date of issuance. No exceptions. The expiration date is printed on the card. Start retraining 2–3 months before it expires.

How do I renew my ACT card?

No shortcut. Retake the full training course and pass the in-person proctored exam again. Same process, same cost, same exam as getting a new card.

See our ACT card renewal page for timing details.

Can I take the ACT card course online?

The course, yes. The exam, no. Study the material online, but the final exam must be taken in person at an approved testing location with a proctor present. No provider offers a fully remote option.

Our online ACT card training guide compares course options and lists in-person exam locations.

How much does the ACT card cost?

Between $6 and $35 depending on the provider. As of early 2026:

Prices shift. Our provider comparison page tracks current pricing.

What score do I need to pass?

75% on the proctored exam. It covers responsible service practices, ID verification, signs of intoxication, and Nevada alcohol law. Everything on the test comes from the course.

What happens if I fail the exam?

You can retake it. Policies vary by provider, some allow same-day retakes, others make you wait. Some charge a retake fee. Confirm the policy before test day.

Can I work while waiting for my ACT card?

Yes, NRS 369.630 gives you 30 days from your hire date to complete training. You can legally work during that window. After day 30, no valid card means no alcohol-related work.

Don't wait. Schedule training in your first two weeks so a failed exam or scheduling conflict doesn't leave you stuck on day 29.

What happens if my card expires while I'm working?

Stop serving or selling alcohol immediately. No grace period, you cannot legally work in an alcohol service role until you complete new training and receive a new card.

Employers face penalties for letting workers serve with expired cards. Start retraining 2–3 months before expiration.

Is my out-of-state alcohol certification accepted in Nevada?

No. Nevada requires training from a provider approved by the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education (CPE). California's RBS, Oregon's OLCC permit, any other state's alcohol training, none of it transfers. You'll need to retrain through a Nevada-approved provider.

What's on the exam?

The exam draws from the roughly 2.5-hour course and covers:

All multiple choice. No trick questions, if you paid attention during the course, you'll be fine.

Do cashiers and grocery store clerks need an ACT card?

In Clark County, yes. The alcohol seller requirement kicks in for counties with a population over 400,000. Clark County is the only one that qualifies. Cashiers ringing up beer at grocery stores or gas stations in Las Vegas need a card.

In Washoe County and all smaller counties, cashiers and retail clerks are exempt, the requirement applies only to servers, bartenders, and security. Our Clark County alcohol laws page explains the seller requirement in detail.

What if I lost my ACT card?

Contact your original training provider. They keep records tied to your name and ID number and can issue a replacement. You cannot get a replacement from a different provider.

Don't remember who trained you? Check old emails or bank statements. Your employer may also have your card number on file.

Does my employer choose my provider?

Your employer cannot legally require a specific provider. Any CPE-approved provider's card meets the NRS 369.630 requirement. That said, many Las Vegas casinos prefer TAM of Nevada or TIPS. Ask about preferences before you pay, it might save you a hassle.

Is TIPS certification the same as an ACT card?

Not the same program, but it meets the same requirement. TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) is a nationally recognized program that's CPE-approved in Nevada. Completing TIPS satisfies NRS 369.630, different curriculum, same valid card.

See our TIPS training in Nevada page for comparison.

How old do I have to be to get an ACT card?

16. Nevada law allows minors to work in alcohol-serving establishments in certain roles, bussing tables, hosting, barback work, as long as they hold a valid card. You don't need to be 21 to get trained; you need to be 21 to drink. If you're 16–20 and your job puts you around alcohol in Clark or Washoe County, you still need the card.

Do I need an ACT card for a one-time event?

Yes, if you're serving alcohol at an event in Clark County or Washoe County. NRS 369.630 does not exempt temporary or one-time service. Volunteers pouring drinks or checking IDs at charity events, festivals, and private functions are included. Most providers can get you trained and tested within a few days.

If you work in Clark or Washoe County: pick a CPE-approved provider, complete the training, pass the in-person exam, and note your expiration date.