We don't sell training courses, process licenses, or take provider commissions. We explain the rules in plain English so you can get it right the first time.

For Workers: Get Your ACT Card

Every bartender, server, and security guard at an alcohol-serving establishment in Clark County or Washoe County needs an ACT card. You have 30 days from hire to get one. The card is valid for 4 years, costs $6–$35 depending on the provider, and requires an in-person proctored exam.

You'll hear it called a TAM card, AAT card, AES card, or just "alcohol card." Same state-mandated certification, different provider branding.

For Owners: Liquor Licensing & State Law

Nevada allows 24-hour alcohol sales statewide, one of few states with no mandated closing time. Open containers are legal on the Las Vegas Strip. But the three-tier licensing system, county-level enforcement, and excise taxes make opening and operating a bar, restaurant, or venue more involved than the permissive reputation suggests.

County-Specific Rules

Nevada enforces alcohol laws at the county level. Clark County requires sellers (cashiers, retail clerks) to carry ACT cards, Washoe County doesn't. Washoe allows 16-year-olds to handle alcohol sales with supervision, Clark requires you to be 21. License renewal is semi-annual in Clark, quarterly in Washoe. Get the wrong county's rules in your head and you're out of compliance.

Casino Workers & Specialized Topics

About This Site

nvabc.com has been a Nevada alcohol compliance reference since 2003. We are not affiliated with the Nevada Department of Taxation, any training provider, or any licensing authority. We verify everything against Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS Chapter 369), county ordinances, and the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education's approved provider list.

If something on this site is wrong or out of date, we want to know.