Frequently Asked Questions

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Liquor Service and Retail Certification

Why is my access code not working?

The Smart Choices Liquor Service and Retail Certification has been updated and is now being hosted by a new provider, Neovation. If you have previously purchased an access code with MTEC, you will need to request a new profile. Please contact smartchoices@smarteru.com to request your new profile.

What do I do if I started the certification but haven't completed it?

If you have an incomplete certification through MTEC, we will also provide you with access to the certification through Neovation. Please contact smartchoices@smarteru.com to request your new profile.

Who has to take the training?

All staff who serve, sell or deliver liquor, and security and managers in licensed service and retail establishments must take Smart Choices before starting to work in a licensed establishment or for a licensed third-party delivery company.

How long is the Smart Choices certification valid for?

Your certification will be valid for 5 years. It will have an expiry date on it and is dated for 5 years from the date that you successfully completed the program.

I own a licensed establishment. Is it my responsibility to make sure my staff have this training?

Yes, each licensee is responsible for making sure that all employees who serve or sell liquor, as well managers and security personnel have successfully completed an approved responsible service program. Some licensees protect themselves by keeping copies of everyone's proof of certification in their employee files.

Who has to take the training?

Anyone involved in the sale, delivery or distribution of cannabis or cannabis products must have this certification. This includes managers and staff in cannabis stores.

I already took the Smart Choices liquor program, but now I want to work in the cannabis industry. Do I have to take this cannabis program?

Yes, you still must complete the Cannabis Retail Certification. This program is different from the Liquor Service and Retail Certification. Anyone involved in the sale of cannabis must have this cannabis certification.

How long is the Smart Choices certification valid for?

Your certification will be valid for 5 years. It will have an expiry date on it and is dated for 5 years from the date that you successfully completed the program.

I own a licensed cannabis store. Is it my responsibility to make sure my staff have this training?

Yes, each licensee is responsible for making sure that anyone involved in the sale, delivery or distribution of cannabis has successfully completed an approved responsible sales program. Some licensees protect themselves by keeping copies of everyone's proof of certification in their employee files.

Why do Smart Choices certifications expire? Why do I have to recertify?

The certifications are valid for 5 years from the date you successfully complete each program. The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA) recognizes that responsible service laws and strategies change over time. A recertification requirement keeps knowledge up-to-date across the hospitality industry. Recertification is common across Canada, and all other Western provinces have this requirement.

Are there other training options?

Licensees are also allowed to propose their own responsible service training program for approval by the LGCA. They will review any proposed third-party programs to ensure that core responsible service information is included, and they may require additions and amendments to third-party programs, or may reject approval if a proposed program is insufficient. A licensee can only offer its own program in place of Smart Choices if it has been approved in writing by the LGCA.

Can I complete the Smart Choices certifications on a mobile device (phone/tablet)?

The certifications are designed for use with a desktop/laptop PC, so you may not have an optimal experience on a mobile device. We recommend using the following:
- Desktop/laptop PC running Windows or macOS
- Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Apple Safari or Mozilla Firefox browsers

Can I obtain a physical card for my certification?

We do not provide physical cards. We provide a printable PDF for your certification.

What is the refund policy for Smart Choices certifications?

The cost of the course is not refundable, not cancellable, or transferable. The credit card provided will be charged the full amount at the time of the purchase.

Why do I see "Neovation" in my credit card statement?

Neovation Corporation provides the Smart Choices certifications on behalf of the Liquor, Gaming & Cannabis Authority of Manitoba.