Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) exam-day guide
Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID
Bring the original, current photo ID the provider requires (often a passport or driver licence). Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether a digital licence is allowed.
Booking confirmation and course details
Have your confirmation email, booking reference, and the provider's contact number available, either printed or on your phone. Check the start time, venue address, and arrival instructions the day before.
Pen and notebook
Bring a black or blue pen and a small notebook for notes or working. Confirm with the provider whether any written materials are supplied or whether you must bring your own.
Required pre-course work completed
If the provider requires online pre-learning or a pre-test, complete it before the day and note any completion code or certificate you need to show. Confirm the requirement with the provider.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before the scheduled start to allow for check-in and ID verification. Confirm the provider's recommended arrival time.
Know the assessment format
Ask the provider in advance whether the assessment includes written multiple-choice questions, short answers, role-play or observation tasks, and how many attempts are allowed.
Language and support needs
If you need an interpreter, extra time, or other adjustments, arrange this with the provider well before the exam day. Confirm what support is available and any evidence required.
Personal necessities
Bring water and any medication you may need. Confirm the provider's policy on food, drink, and scheduled breaks during the assessment.
Device and connectivity
If any part of the assessment is online or on a device, confirm the technical requirements, whether devices are supplied, and what to do if there is a technical failure.
Dress and conduct
Dress neatly and be ready to take part in practical activities if required. Confirm with the provider whether role-play or simulated service scenarios form part of the assessment.
Review key concepts
Revise standard responsible service topics such as checking ID, refusing service, identifying intoxication, and handling conflict. Use the provider's own learner guide as your primary source.
Backup plan for transport and timing
Check travel times and have a backup route. Confirm with the provider what happens if you arrive late or miss the session.
Plan the day
Re-read the provider's learner guide and your notes. Focus on the areas you find hardest, such as checking ID, signs of intoxication, refusing service, and your legal responsibilities. Confirm the venue, start time, and what to bring by checking your booking confirmation. Complete any online pre-course modules and save proof of completion. Contact the provider if you need adjustments, an interpreter, or clarification about the assessment format.
Pack your photo ID, booking confirmation, pen, and notebook. Charge your phone and save the provider's contact number. Check transport arrangements and plan to arrive early. Get a good night's sleep. Avoid last-minute cramming; instead, review a short summary of key points. Confirm with the provider whether any materials are supplied and whether you need to print anything.
Eat a proper meal and stay hydrated. Arrive at the venue with time to spare and go through check-in and ID verification. Listen carefully to the assessor's instructions, including the rules on phones, leaving the room, and asking questions. If you are unsure about any instruction, ask the assessor before the assessment begins.
Read each question carefully and answer in the format required. For scenario questions, identify the problem, state the responsible service action, and explain why it is required. If a role-play is part of the assessment, stay in character, communicate clearly, and follow the refusal-of-service steps you have learned. Manage your time so you can attempt every question. If you do not understand a question, ask the assessor for clarification only in the way the provider permits. Check your answers before submitting if time allows.
Rules to check
Bring the original photo ID required by the provider and present it at check-in. Do not rely on a copy unless the provider has confirmed in writing that a copy is acceptable.
Follow the provider's rules on phones, smart watches, notes, and other materials. Unless the provider explicitly permits them, keep devices switched off and out of reach during the assessment.
Listen to and follow all instructions from the assessor. Ask for clarification before the assessment starts if anything is unclear; do not guess at rules during the test.
Take only the breaks the provider allows. Confirm the break policy and whether you may leave the room during the assessment.
Complete the assessment honestly and independently. Do not copy from others, share answers, or misrepresent your identity or prior learning.
If you need extra time, an interpreter, or other adjustments, request them from the provider before the exam day and follow their approval process.
Ask the provider in advance about scoring, the pass mark, and the number of re-assessment attempts allowed. Do not assume a policy; confirm it with the provider.
If you feel unwell or unable to continue, tell the assessor immediately and follow the provider's procedure for illness or withdrawal.