A lead waiter is experienced in food service. Most restaurants use a point-of-sale system called a POS to send orders to the kitchen and generate sales slips; some experience with restaurant software like this is necessary. Knowledge of food and beverage preparation, guest relations, service styles and etiquette such as appropriate table settings, the order of service ware and wine service is required. All waitstaff must be able to carry heavy trays that weigh as much as 50 pounds, as well as perform cleaning side work on a daily basis. Food handler permits and alcohol server certifications are required in most states. These are typically one- to three-hour courses that end with a multiple choice test.