How To Get Certified As A Bartender

What Does Bartender Certification Entail?

Bartender certification demonstrates a baseline level of knowledge and skill in areas crucial to successful bartending. These areas generally include:

• Mixology: Understanding cocktail recipes, techniques, and variations.
• Alcohol Awareness: Knowledge of responsible alcohol service, legal regulations, and recognizing intoxication.
• Customer Service: Providing excellent service, handling customer interactions, and resolving issues.
• Bar Operations: Understanding bar setup, hygiene, inventory management, and cash handling.

Choosing the Right Bartender Certification

Several organizations offer bartender certifications, each with its own focus and reputation. Here are some of the most recognized and respected:

• ServSafe Alcohol: Primarily focuses on responsible alcohol service and legal liability. It is widely recognized and often required by employers in many states.
• Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS): Another widely recognized responsible alcohol service certification. TIPS focuses on preventing intoxication, underage drinking, and drunk driving.
• BarSmarts: Offers a more in-depth look into mixology, spirits knowledge, and cocktail history. Often viewed as a more comprehensive certification for aspiring craft bartenders.
• European Bartender School (EBS): Provides intensive, hands-on bartending courses with certifications recognized globally. While more expensive, EBS offers a broad skill set and valuable networking opportunities.
• WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust): While not solely a bartending certification, the WSET Level 1 and 2 Awards in Spirits are highly regarded for demonstrating advanced spirits knowledge, benefiting bartenders aiming for high-end establishments.

Consider your career goals when selecting a certification. If you’re primarily concerned with meeting legal requirements, ServSafe Alcohol or TIPS might be sufficient. If you aspire to work in a craft cocktail bar, BarSmarts or WSET certifications could be more advantageous.

Steps to Get Certified

Here’s a general outline of the process for obtaining bartender certification:

1. Research Certification Options: As discussed above, carefully evaluate the different certifications and choose the one that aligns best with your career goals and local regulations.
2. Enroll in a Course (Optional but Recommended): While some certifications only require passing an exam, enrolling in a training course can significantly increase your chances of success. Courses provide structured learning, hands-on practice, and guidance from experienced instructors.
3. Study the Material: Whether you enroll in a course or not, thoroughly study the provided materials. Pay close attention to key concepts, regulations, and best practices.
4. Take the Exam: Most certifications require passing a written or online exam. Some may also include a practical assessment of your bartending skills.
5. Receive Your Certification: Upon successful completion of the exam and any required assessments, you will receive your official certification.
6. Maintain Your Certification: Some certifications require periodic renewal to ensure your knowledge is up-to-date. Be sure to check the requirements and renew your certification before it expires.

Detailed Breakdown: ServSafe Alcohol Certification

Let’s use ServSafe Alcohol as an example to illustrate the process more concretely.

1. Enrollment:

• You can enroll in an online course or a classroom-based course through the ServSafe website or a certified training provider.

2. Course Content:

The ServSafe Alcohol course covers the following topics:

• The impact of alcohol on the body.
• Recognizing and preventing intoxication.
• Checking identification to prevent underage drinking.
• Handling difficult customers.
• Understanding dram shop laws and legal liability.

3. Examination:

• The ServSafe Alcohol exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions.
• You must achieve a score of 75% or higher to pass.
• The exam is typically administered online or in person after completing the course.

4. Certification:

• Upon passing the exam, you will receive a ServSafe Alcohol certificate that is valid for three years.

Estimated Cost Breakdown

Here’s a rough cost estimate for obtaining different bartender certifications. Note that prices can vary depending on the provider and location.

Important Note: These are just estimates. Always check with the specific certification provider for the most accurate pricing. EBS has significant variance because courses vary in duration and content.

Key Skills Assessed During Certification

The specific skills assessed during certification depend on the certification program, but generally include:

• Knowledge of alcoholic beverages: Including spirits, wines, beers, and liqueurs.
• Mixology techniques: Shaking, stirring, layering, muddling, etc.
• Cocktail recipes: Ability to accurately prepare classic and contemporary cocktails.
• Responsible alcohol service: Recognizing signs of intoxication, verifying age, and preventing underage drinking.
• Customer service: Providing friendly, efficient, and professional service.
• Bar hygiene and safety: Maintaining a clean and safe work environment.
• Cash handling: Accurate cash register operation and handling of transactions.

Pro Tips for Success

• Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice mixing drinks, the more confident and skilled you’ll become.
• Network with Bartenders: Talk to experienced bartenders to learn about their experiences and get advice.
• Study Actively: Don’t just passively read the material. Take notes, create flashcards, and test yourself regularly.
• Attend Workshops and Seminars: Consider attending bartending workshops and seminars to further enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Stay Up-to-Date: The bartending industry is constantly evolving. Stay informed about new trends, techniques, and regulations.
• Don’t Neglect Soft Skills: Remember that customer service is just as important as technical skills. Develop your communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Understand Local Laws: Alcohol laws vary significantly by state and even by locality. Make sure you are fully aware of the regulations in your area.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Choosing the wrong certification: Select a certification that aligns with your career goals and local requirements.
• Underestimating the difficulty: Don’t underestimate the amount of study and practice required to pass the exam.
• Neglecting responsible alcohol service: Responsible alcohol service is a crucial aspect of bartending. Don’t take it lightly.
• Failing to renew certification: Some certifications require periodic renewal. Make sure you renew your certification before it expires.
• Ignoring local regulations: Always be aware of and comply with local alcohol laws.

Conclusion

Becoming a certified bartender is a valuable investment in your career. By carefully researching your options, thoroughly preparing for the exam, and continuously honing your skills, you can set yourself up for success in the exciting and rewarding world of bartending. Remember to prioritize responsible alcohol service, excellent customer service, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does bartender certification cost?

Costs vary widely. Responsible alcohol service certs like TIPS/ServSafe can be $30-$180. Mixology-focused certs (BarSmarts, WSET) range from $29-$1200. Intensive programs like EBS can cost $2500+.

How long does it take to get bartender certified?

It depends on the certification. ServSafe/TIPS can be completed in a few hours. More in-depth programs like BarSmarts or WSET may take several weeks or months of study.

Is it difficult to get bartender certified?

The difficulty varies by certification. Some primarily test knowledge of responsible alcohol service. Others, like BarSmarts, require deeper understanding of mixology and spirits. Preparation is key!

Do I need to get recertified?

Many certifications, such as ServSafe Alcohol, require renewal every few years (often 2-3 years). Check with your specific certification provider to understand their renewal policies.