If you are hosting an event that requires a Special Event Permit, all servers, both paid and un-paid, serving at the event must be have a Special Event Server (SES) certificate regardless of the number of event attendees. Managers and Special Event Permit holders for events with less than 500 people are also required to take the SES course. 

If you have a valid Serving It Right certification or out-of-province equivalent, you do not need the SES course.

• Find out more about who needs a SES certificate

The Special Event Server (SES) certification is B.C.’s mandatory beverage service training program for special events.

There are three steps to receiving your Special Event Server certification:

1. Study the online course
2. Pass the exam
3. Get certified

Fees

With any event larger than 500 attendees, all managers and Special Event Permit holders must take Serving It Right. 

The Serving It Right online exam costs $20 plus GST.

• Your purchase includes three attempts for the final exam
• If you don’t pass the exam after your third try, you can re-take the exam for $20