If you’re looking to step into a duty manager role, you may have been told you need an LCQ. But what does the qualification involve, and what happens once you’ve completed it?
Here’s a guide to the process, whether you’re planning your next step in hospitality or arranging training for a team member.
What is the LCQ?
LCQ stands for Licence Controller Qualification. It covers the knowledge needed to understand New Zealand’s alcohol laws and the responsibilities involved in managing alcohol service at licensed premises.
The qualification includes two NZQA unit standards: 4646, covering the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 and its implications for licensed premises, and 16705, covering host responsibility requirements for duty managers.
This is relevant across hospitality, including restaurants, cafés and bars that serve alcohol.
Is an LCQ the same as a Manager’s Certificate?
No. This is one of the most common points of confusion.
The LCQ is the qualification you need as part of applying for a Manager’s Certificate. The Manager’s Certificate is issued through a separate application process with the relevant licensing authority. Completing an LCQ course does not, by itself, mean you can start working as a certified duty manager.
If you’re preparing to take on the role, it’s useful to check your local council’s Manager’s Certificate application requirements as well as arranging your LCQ training.
Can you do your LCQ online?
Yes. Restaurant Association members and industry employees can complete our online LCQ course through a series of video training modules. Learners can work through the training at a pace that fits around their shifts, rather than attending a scheduled classroom course.
That flexibility can also make it easier for businesses to prepare several team members for future duty manager responsibilities without taking them all away from service at the same time.
How do you get started?
Each learner registers individually through the online training portal. The portal uses a separate account from your Restaurant Association membership login.
The member price is $180 + GST per learner. Members can access a coupon code to apply that rate during registration.
If you’re ready to begin, visit our online LCQ course page for the registration link, member coupon and course details.
Planning ahead for your team
It can be tempting to leave LCQ training until a duty manager vacancy needs filling. Planning ahead gives team members time to build their knowledge of alcohol law and host responsibility before they take on greater responsibility.
For employers, it is also an opportunity to talk with a promising team member about their development: what the duty manager role involves, what support they’ll need, and the steps between completing their LCQ and applying for a Manager’s Certificate.
Looking for somewhere to do your LCQ? Explore the Restaurant Association’s online LCQ course.