Mobile Bars

If operating legally, the mobile bar is a direct extension of a brick-and-mortar location in Idaho. Some have branded themselves as a different entity but are direct W2 employees of a licensed brick-and-mortar location. ABC is making ongoing efforts to combat the illegal activity of those who do not possess a valid alcohol license.

Idaho Code § 23-908

Licenses are separate and distinct and cannot be shared by a license holder to further another business. If another individual misuses the license, they may face potential criminal charges.  In addition, the licensee can be administratively violated by a fine, suspension, or revocation of the license.  An alternative is becoming a W2 employee of that establishment and a mobile caterer.  In this instance, all revenue from events, liquor purchases, and permits must go through the licensed brick-and-mortar.

Idaho Code § 23-905, 23-908, 23-606

Catering permits are only issued by the local municipality/jurisdiction to those who possess a retail alcohol license. Catering permits are issued for a one-time event such as a festival in a park, wedding, farmer’s market, etc.  Unlicensed individuals are not allowed to sell, serve, or dispense alcohol at public functions without a license and corresponding catering permit.

Idaho Code § 23-934A

The term “dry hire” has been used in various instances recently. Per Idaho Code, only those licensed and authorized in Title 23 are allowed to sell, serve, and/or dispense alcohol.  Many individuals have inquired about having individuals purchase and transport the alcohol for them to an event.  They intend to only pour and serve the alcohol.  However, the act of dispensing the alcohol to the public still constitutes a violation.  The only time an individual may be “dry hired” as a bartender is a private event on private property, such as a family reunion in the backyard of a home.  If the location is public and in the act of commerce such as a wedding venue, corporate office, etc., an alcohol license is required to sell, serve, and/or dispense alcohol.

Idaho Code § 23-934, 23-602

There has often been significant confusion regarding the terminology of licensed and certified bartenders. Per Idaho State Law, there is no formal training required to sell, serve, and dispense liquor.  However, many city and county ordinances throughout Idaho have adopted requirements for formal training.  This generally includes an acceptable list of programs recognized as satisfactory by that jurisdiction.  Businesses that possess a retail alcohol license within that jurisdiction are required to adhere to the required training.  As a result, bartenders and servers receive a “certification” of training.  Therefore, employees of an establishment are considered “certified” in alcohol service, not “licensed.”  As mentioned before, you must be a direct employee of a licensed brick-and-mortar establishment to sell, serve, and/or dispense alcoholic beverages in a place of commerce. 

Idaho Code § 23-916, 23-1015, 23-1016, 23-1318