Career roadmap
How to Become a Casino Dealer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a casino dealer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a casino dealer: (1) meet age requirements, (2) attend dealer school, (3) get licensed, (4) audition, (5) advance. Most people need about 4–12 weeks per game. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a casino dealer
Meet age requirements
Usually 18 or 21.
Attend dealer school
Learn one or more games.
Get licensed
Pass the gaming commission background check.
Audition
Casinos test your dealing skills.
Advance
Learn more games and become a floor supervisor.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma is typical. Dealers attend dealer school or casino training for each game and must obtain a state gaming license.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 4–12 weeks per game |
Certifications and licenses
- State gaming license: Required to work in casinos.
- Dealer school certificate: Training for specific games.
- Responsible gaming training: Training on problem gambling.
- Customer service training: Guest service skills.
Skills to build now
Start with game procedures, mental math, and chip handling, and practice composure and friendliness. Learning the casino dealer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Dealer: Run table games.
- Dual-Rate Dealer: Deal and supervise.
- Floor Supervisor: Supervise tables.
- Pit Manager or Casino Manager: Manage gaming operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Casino Dealer 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 is dealer school?
Often a few weeks per game.
How long does it take to become a casino dealer?
Most people need about 4–12 weeks per game of training. A high school diploma is typical. Dealers attend dealer school or casino training for each game and must obtain a state gaming license.
Do you need a degree to be a casino dealer?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for casino dealers?
Common credentials include State gaming license, Dealer school certificate, Responsible gaming training, and Customer service training. Casino dealers must be licensed by the state gaming commission, which requires background checks and fees.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 39-3011 (Gambling dealers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Gambling dealers (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.