Career roadmap
How to Become a Chef
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a chef, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a chef: (1) start in a kitchen, (2) build skills on every station, (3) consider culinary school, (4) become a sous chef, (5) lead a kitchen. Most people need about 2–5 years of kitchen experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a chef
Start in a kitchen
Work as a dishwasher, prep cook or line cook.
Build skills on every station
Learn grill, sauté, fry and pastry.
Consider culinary school
Formal training speeds up learning.
Become a sous chef
Lead shifts and manage cooks.
Lead a kitchen
Become a head chef, executive chef or restaurant owner.
Education and training requirements
Many chefs learn on the job over years; others attend culinary school or complete apprenticeships. Food protection manager certification, such as ServSafe Manager, is commonly required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | 5 years or more |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2–5 years of kitchen experience |
Certifications and licenses
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager: Food safety manager certification required in many jurisdictions.
- ACF Certified Sous Chef or Executive Chef: American Culinary Federation credentials.
- Culinary school diploma or degree: Formal training in techniques and kitchen management.
- Allergen awareness training: Training to prevent allergic reactions.
Skills to build now
Start with cooking techniques, menu planning, and food cost control, and practice leadership and creativity. Learning the chef vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Prep or Line Cook: Learn stations and techniques.
- Sous Chef: Lead shifts and train cooks.
- Head or Executive Chef: Run the kitchen and menu.
- Chef-Owner or Culinary Director: Own restaurants or lead multiple kitchens.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Chef 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 chef?
Usually several years of kitchen experience.
How long does it take to become a chef?
Most people need about 2–5 years of kitchen experience of training. Many chefs learn on the job over years; others attend culinary school or complete apprenticeships. Food protection manager certification, such as ServSafe Manager, is commonly required.
Do you need a degree to be a chef?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for chefs?
Common credentials include ServSafe Food Protection Manager, ACF Certified Sous Chef or Executive Chef, Culinary school diploma or degree, and Allergen awareness training. Many states and cities require at least one certified food protection manager on staff, and health departments inspect kitchens regularly.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 35-1011 (Chefs and head cooks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Chefs and head cooks (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.