Career roadmap
How to Become a Bartender
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a bartender, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a bartender: (1) meet age requirements, (2) start as a barback or server, (3) get alcohol service certification, (4) learn recipes and speed, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–4 weeks. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a bartender
Meet age requirements
Minimum ages vary by state.
Start as a barback or server
Learn the bar.
Get alcohol service certification
Complete TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol.
Learn recipes and speed
Practice classic cocktails.
Advance
Become a head bartender, bar manager or beverage director.
Education and training requirements
No formal education is required. Bartenders learn on the job, sometimes through bartending schools. Responsible alcohol service training is common and often required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–4 weeks |
Certifications and licenses
- TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol: Responsible alcohol service training.
- State bartender or server license: Required in some states.
- Food handler card: Basic food safety training.
- Wine or spirits certifications: Such as WSET or Certified Specialist of Spirits.
Skills to build now
Start with cocktail recipes, pouring and measuring, and pos and tab handling, and practice personality and friendliness and multitasking. Learning the bartender vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Barback: Support bartenders.
- Bartender: Serve guests and drinks.
- Head Bartender: Lead the bar.
- Bar Manager or Beverage Director: Run bar programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Bartender training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a bartender?
Most people need about 1–4 weeks of training. No formal education is required. Bartenders learn on the job, sometimes through bartending schools. Responsible alcohol service training is common and often required.
Do you need a degree to be a bartender?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for bartenders?
Common credentials include TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol, State bartender or server license, Food handler card, and Wine or spirits certifications. Many states and cities require responsible alcohol service training or a bartender license, and set minimum ages for serving alcohol.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 35-3011 (Bartenders).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Bartenders (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.