FAQ
Server FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a server.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a server: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about servers
Do servers need experience?
Not always; many restaurants train new servers.
How do servers get paid?
Usually a base wage plus tips, depending on state law.
Is serving a good job?
It can pay well with tips and offers flexibility.
How much does a server make?
The median annual wage for servers was $35,230 ($16.94 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $18,100 and the highest 10% earned more than $64,720.
How long does it take to become a server?
Most people need about 1–2 weeks of training. No formal education is required. Servers learn on the job. Food handler cards and responsible alcohol service training are often required.
Do you need a degree to be a server?
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 server a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.0% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 423,100 openings each year. Upsides include tips can add up quickly; a common challenge is that income varies with tips.
What skills does a server need?
Key technical skills include menu knowledge, order taking, pos systems, and tray carrying. Employers also value friendliness, multitasking, and memory.
What certifications are available for servers?
Common credentials include Food handler card, Responsible alcohol service, Allergen awareness, and Wine basics certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Server fit quiz, compare with Bartender, or explore Server training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 35-3031 (Waiters and waitresses).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Waiters and waitresses (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.