No matter which state you’re in, bartending continues to be one of the most popular career paths within the hospitality business. It’s often an appealing opportunity for people with full availability and those who study on the side. Flexible hours, social interactions, and substantial earnings are what make this role so interesting and unlike any other.
The only obstacle that prevents you from getting your dream job in the United States is a bartending license. Although not mandatory in every state, this certification significantly increases your chances of finding a well-paid job.
So, how long does it take to get a bartending license? This depends on a few factors that vary from state to state. Keep reading to find out how to obtain a bartending license in your state quickly and efficiently.
What Exactly Is a Bartending License?
A bartending license is a certification proving you've successfully completed training focused on alcohol-serving standards, responsible beverage service, and awareness of local alcohol laws.
In simple words, obtaining a bartending license means you’ve received training on how to responsibly serve and sell alcoholic beverages. In addition, this certification indicates that you are aware of how to handle difficult situations, behave with intoxicated customers, and comply with state-specific laws.
In the US, bartenders typically require this license because many states legally mandate responsible alcohol service training. Employers also favor licensed bartenders due to liability and insurance considerations.
Do you need a bartending license in your state? Check below:
| State | Certification Requirement |
|---|---|
|
California |
|
|
Texas |
|
|
New York |
Alcohol Training Recommended |
|
Illinois |
BASSET Certification Required |
|
Florida |
Florida Responsible Vendor Training (optional but widely recommended) |
How Long Does It Typically Take to Become Licensed?
Obtaining a bartending license may take anywhere between 2 hours to a few weeks. If you’re wondering why such a big difference in time – this is because the timeframe of getting licensed heavily depends on the form of training.
Classroom-based courses may last up to several weeks. Add the time needed to commute there and back, and the duration of in-person training programs may become challenging for those who want to enter the industry as soon as possible.
Online bartending courses have become a popular alternative, offering the same high-quality training at a lower cost and shorter span.
At ServeSmart, we understand the value of time and provide online bartending courses that typically take up to 3 hours to complete. Our mobile-optimized training program allows you to study at your own pace, meaning you can take a day, a week, or more to finish the entire course.
Before you enroll in the course, you should first learn about factors that may prolong your training:
State-specific Licensing Requirements
What’s unique about obtaining a bartending license is that you should know which course to get based on your location. Unfortunately, certifications vary by state and can only be valid in the place where you obtained them.
For example, obtaining a bartending license in Texas typically takes less time than completing more extensive training programs required in other states.
Hence, make sure to check what certification is required (or recommended) to prevent overpaying for an additional course.
Your Schedule and Learning Pace
With ServeSmart, you can study the materials in our course at any time you are available and from any location, be it your home, university, or transportation, as long as you have an internet connection.
If you enroll in an in-person course, you should take into consideration that a few lessons can be spread through the course of weeks.
Hence, another factor that impacts how quickly you can become certified is your dedication to completing your training.
Chosen Training Path (Traditional vs. Online)
Traditional classroom training inherently involves set schedules, extending the timeline. Online courses, on the other hand, offer the flexibility to speed up the certification process, accommodating your unique pace and availability.
Traditional vs. Online Bartender License Courses - Comparison Table
Not sure which course format to choose? See our comparison table below:
| Factor | ServeSmart | Traditional Classroom Courses |
|---|---|---|
|
Training Duration |
Hours to days |
A few weeks |
|
Schedule Flexibility |
Self-paced, available 24/7 |
Limited |
|
Cost |
Significantly lower |
Higher |
|
Immediate Certification |
Instant upon course completion |
Typically not instant |
|
Hands-on Experience |
Theory-focused, practical on job |
Direct instruction |
As you can see, enrolling in an online bartending course offers many advantages over commuting to classroom-based training programs where you will have to adjust to the progress of the group
Important Note on Skills vs. Certifications
There is one thing left to clear up before we jump to the guide on how to get licensed in your state – acquiring your license doesn’t magically enhance your bartending skills. Only through practice can you master the skills of communication, making drinks, and managing the workplace.
While our training courses are prepared by industry leaders who share their insights and the latest information about your state’s laws and regulations – it will be your responsibility to put gained knowledge into practice.
Nonetheless, online licensing ensures immediate employability, letting practical skills develop organically through on-the-job experience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Licensed Online
Obtaining a bartending license is quite simple and straightforward with these 4 steps:
Step 1: Selecting a Reputable Online Licensing Course
Choose an online course approved and recognized in your state, like ServeSmart. We offer streamlined and quick certification processes and extensive state approval.
Step 2: Enroll and Complete Short, Comprehensive Coursework
Step 3: Successfully Pass the Final Online Exam
Online bartending exams generally last between 30 minutes to an hour. Exams are straightforward and designed to ensure you’ve absorbed the critical knowledge required for responsible bartending. You will need to score at least 70% (or more) to pass the exam.
Step 4: Immediate Access to Your Downloadable Bartender License Certificate
Practical Tips to Enhance Your Bartending Career After Licensing
Now that you are a licensed bartender – what’s next? Here are a few tips and tricks we stress to our students:
Clarify Expectations
You need to understand the distinction between obtaining a license and developing practical bartending skills. Certification indicates you are ready to begin employment, but expertise can only be developed through experience.
Continue Learning
Even after obtaining your license, regularly practice and master new drink recipes, enhancing your bartending skills progressively. Continued learning ensures you remain competitive and efficient in the fast-paced hospitality industry.
Develop Your Career Gradually
Stay Adaptable
Conclusion
Obtaining a bartending license is quick and easy if you follow our guide and choose an online training program like iservesmart.com.
However, while certification provides better chances of getting hired, practical bartending proficiency comes through continued hands-on experience.
Get your bartending certificate in your state online with ServeSmart – embrace the convenience, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility offered by our courses.
Enroll today to quickly gain the credentials needed to thrive behind the bar.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, many states legally require responsible alcohol service certification for bartenders.
Online courses like those offered at iservesmart.com can be completed in as little as a few hours.
Absolutely. Platforms like iservesmart.com enable full online certification.
Online licenses typically cost between $15 and $50, significantly less expensive than classroom training.
Yes, certifications usually have expiration dates varying from 2-4 years, depending on state regulations.
Certifications like those from iservesmart.com are widely recognized, but you must verify your state’s specific acceptance and requirements.
