Career roadmap
How to Become a Hotel Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a hotel manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a hotel manager: (1) start in a hotel department, (2) become a supervisor, (3) move into department management, (4) earn credentials, (5) become a general manager. Most people need about 3–5 years of hotel experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a hotel manager
Start in a hotel department
Front desk, housekeeping or sales.
Become a supervisor
Lead shifts.
Move into department management
Front office or rooms division.
Earn credentials
CHA or a hospitality degree.
Become a general manager
Lead a property, then regions.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma plus hotel experience is common; many managers have hospitality management degrees.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 3–5 years of hotel experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA): AHLEI credential for hotel leaders.
- Certified Revenue Management Executive (CRME): Revenue management credential.
- Hospitality management degree: Formal training in hotel operations.
- ServSafe Manager: Food safety certification for properties with food service.
Skills to build now
Start with revenue management, budgeting, and staff management, and practice leadership and communication. Learning the hotel manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Front Desk Agent or Supervisor: Learn operations.
- Department Manager: Lead front office or housekeeping.
- Hotel General Manager: Run a property.
- Regional or Area Manager: Oversee multiple hotels.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Hotel Manager 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
Do hotel managers need a degree?
Not always; experience counts, though degrees help.
How long does it take to become a GM?
Often five to ten years.
How long does it take to become a hotel manager?
Most people need about 3–5 years of hotel experience of training. A high school diploma plus hotel experience is common; many managers have hospitality management degrees.
Do you need a degree to be a hotel manager?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-9081 (Lodging managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Lodging managers (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.