The Ultimate AB-1013 Compliance Guide for California Bars and Nightclubs

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California Assembly Bill 1013 (AB-1013) requires certain licensed establishments to provide drink-spiking drug test kits to customers upon request. California led the way in 2024; Washington SB 5330, Tennessee, and Tempe, Arizona have since followed. For a full overview, see our state-by-state drink spiking laws guide. For Type 48 liquor license holders—bars and nightclubs that do not admit minors—compliance is mandatory. Non-compliance can result in license suspension through the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) TRACE program. This guide outlines the California AB-1013 requirements and practical steps to achieve bulletproof compliance.

Who Must Comply: Type 48 License Holders

AB-1013 applies to establishments that hold a Type 48 license: on-sale general public premises where alcoholic beverages are sold for consumption on-site and minors are not permitted. This includes:

• Bars
• Nightclubs
• Lounges and similar venues

Restaurants, hotels, and other venues that admit minors are generally not subject to AB-1013. If you hold a Type 48 license, you must comply.

What the Law Requires

1. Approved Test Kits

You must stock drug testing devices capable of detecting the substances specified in the law. These include:

• GHB (gamma hydroxybutyric acid)
• Ketamine
• Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol, commonly known as "roofies")

Approved formats include test strips, stickers, and straws. Kits must be available to customers upon request. You may sell them at a reasonable price based on your wholesale cost—giving them away for free is not required, but you must have them on hand.

2. Required Signage

A prominent sign must be displayed where patrons can easily see it. The required text is:

"Don't get roofied! Drink spiking drug test kits available here. Ask a staff member for details."

Place the sign near the bar, entrance, or other high-visibility areas. Staff should know where kits are stored and how to provide them when asked.

3. Liability Protection

Businesses that comply with AB-1013 are not liable for defective tests or inaccurate results. This provision is designed to encourage compliance without exposing establishments to undue legal risk. As long as you meet the law's requirements, you are protected from liability for faulty or misleading test outcomes.

Enforcement: ABC TRACE and License Suspension

The California ABC enforces AB-1013 through its TRACE (Target Responsibility for Alcohol-Connected Emergencies) program and related compliance checks. Violations can result in:

• License suspension of approximately 25 to 45 days, depending on the circumstances
• Additional penalties as determined by the ABC

Staying compliant is not only a legal obligation but also a way to avoid costly disruptions to your business. A single suspension can impact revenue, reputation, and staffing.

Compliance Checklist for Bar Owners and GMs

1. Source compliant test kits that detect GHB, Ketamine, and Flunitrazepam (strips, stickers, or straws).
2. Display the required sign with the exact wording: "Don't get roofied! Drink spiking drug test kits available here. Ask a staff member for details."
3. Train staff so they know where kits are stored and how to provide them to customers who ask.
4. Set a fair retail price if you choose to sell kits (based on wholesale cost).
5. Keep adequate stock so kits are always available when requested.

DrinkCheck: Compliant Test Kits for California Bars

DrinkCheck test strips detect GHB, Ketamine, Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol), and additional substances in seconds. They meet AB-1013 requirements and are clinically validated for reliability. DrinkCheck offers wholesale pricing for bars, nightclubs, and other licensed establishments that need to comply in bulk.

For a detailed overview of the law and how DrinkCheck supports compliance, visit our California AB-1013 guide.

Ensure Bulletproof AB-1013 Compliance

DrinkCheck offers wholesale pricing for bars, nightclubs, festivals, and hospitality groups. Avoid license suspension and protect your patrons.

Apply for exclusive DrinkCheck wholesale B2B account →

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. If you suspect you or someone else has been drugged, seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, call 911. Bar owners should consult their legal advisor for compliance with AB-1013.

Last updated: March 2026. Legislative requirements may change. Consult official sources and your legal advisor for current compliance information.