Career roadmap
How to Become a Restaurant Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a restaurant manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a restaurant manager: (1) work in restaurants, (2) become a shift lead, (3) earn certifications, (4) become an assistant manager, (5) advance. Most people need about 2–5 years of restaurant experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a restaurant manager
Work in restaurants
Serve, host or cook.
Become a shift lead
Lead shifts and handle problems.
Earn certifications
ServSafe Manager and alcohol training.
Become an assistant manager
Learn costs and scheduling.
Advance
Become a general manager, multi-unit manager or owner.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma plus restaurant experience is typical. Some managers have hospitality degrees. Food protection manager certification is commonly required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 2–5 years of restaurant experience |
Certifications and licenses
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager: Food safety manager certification.
- Responsible alcohol service certification: Such as TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol.
- Foodservice Management Professional (FMP): National Restaurant Association credential.
- Hospitality degree or certificate: Formal hospitality management training.
Skills to build now
Start with labor scheduling, cost control, and inventory management, and practice leadership and problem solving. Learning the restaurant manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Server, Host or Cook: Learn restaurant operations.
- Shift Lead or Assistant Manager: Lead shifts.
- Restaurant or General Manager: Run the restaurant.
- Multi-Unit Manager or Owner: Lead several locations or own one.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Restaurant 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 restaurant managers need a degree?
Not usually; experience is key.
What certification is needed?
Food protection manager certification is common.
How long does it take to become a restaurant manager?
Most people need about 2–5 years of restaurant experience of training. A high school diploma plus restaurant experience is typical. Some managers have hospitality degrees. Food protection manager certification is commonly required.
Do you need a degree to be a restaurant manager?
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.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-9051 (Food service managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Food service 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.