Bartenders
Education & Training
Preparation
To work as a bartender, you typically need to:
- be at least 21 years old; and
- complete short-term on-the-job training.
Education after high school
No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some bartenders receive a bartending certificate from a professional-technical school. Courses include information about state and local laws, mixing drinks, and stocking a bar. A bartending certificate is optional.
On-the-job training
Most bartenders learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. Training includes:
- mixing drinks;
- providing customer service;
- using equipment needed for the job; and
- handling food properly.
In general, training lasts up to a month. After training, an experienced worker supervises your work. As you gain experience, you receive less supervision.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)
Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.
Helpful High School Courses
You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
- Food Service
- Hospitality
- Principles of Sales
- Safety and First Aid
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
