Can better server training stop drunk drivers before they start?
NCT ID NCT05779774
First seen Sep 21, 2026 · Last updated Sep 21, 2026
Summary
Researchers are testing whether adding an in-service professional development component to the WayToServe online responsible beverage service training helps alcohol servers refuse service to intoxicated patrons more often. The trial enrolls licensed premises owners, managers, and servers aged 19 and older in two states. Premises are randomly assigned to receive either the standard WayToServe training alone or the training plus the new in-service component. The main measure is how often servers refuse alcohol to actors who appear intoxicated during staged assessments.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- an in-service professional development component added to the WayToServe online responsible beverage service training
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could give bars and restaurants a practical way to train staff to refuse alcohol service to intoxicated patrons, which may help reduce drunk driving in their communities.
- What could go wrong
- This is a behavioral training study, not a drug trial, and its success depends on whether servers change their real-world behavior. The trial measures refusals during staged assessments, so results may not reflect everyday practice, and any effect on drunk driving rates would take years to confirm.
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Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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216 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Oct 2022
- Finished
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May 2026
- Lead sponsor
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A company
The lead sponsor is a pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical-device company.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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19 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * 19 years of age or older * Own/manage a licensed premises or be an alcohol server (waitress, waiter or bartender) * Have completed the WayToServe responsible beverage service training (Phase I only) * Be proficient in English * Consent to participate Exclusion Criteria: * Have a family/household member already participating in project • Younger than 19 years old (18 and younger cannot legally serve alcohol in either state)
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Klein Buendel, Inc
Golden, Colorado, 80401, United States
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