FAQ
Busser FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a busser.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a busser: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about bussers
Do bussers get tips?
Usually a tip share from servers.
Do I need experience?
No.
Is it a path to server?
Yes.
How much does a busser make?
The median annual wage for bussers was $33,980 ($16.34 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $21,300 and the highest 10% earned more than $46,570.
How long does it take to become a busser?
Most people need about A few days on the job of training. No formal educational credential is required.
Do you need a degree to be a busser?
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.
Is busser a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.3% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 95,300 openings each year. Upsides include easy entry; a common challenge is that low base pay.
What skills does a busser need?
Key technical skills include table clearing, table setting, tray carrying, and food running. Employers also value speed, teamwork, and courtesy.
What certifications are available for bussers?
Common credentials include Food handler card, Alcohol awareness, Hospitality training, and Allergen training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Busser fit quiz, compare with Server, or explore Busser training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 35-9011 (Dining room and cafeteria attendants and bartender helpers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Dining room and cafeteria attendants and bartender helpers (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.