What you need to do to bartend legally

Most states require you to get a bartender's license before you can pour drinks for money, though the exact rules and what the license covers vary by state and sometimes by county. In some places, the license is called a "mixologist license" or "on-premises license," and in a few states you only need a general food service permit. The process usually involves taking a class, passing a test, and paying a fee—but the length of the class and the cost depend on where you live.

You will also need to be at least 18 or 21 years old (depending on your state) and have no serious criminal convictions. Some states require you to get your license before you start work; others let you work while your process is pending. The fastest way to find out what your state actually requires is to contact your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board (or the equivalent agency—it has different names in different states) or ask the bar where you want to work, since they deal with these rules every day.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states require a bartender's license obtained through a class and exam, but a few states have no statewide requirement—check your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board website first.
  • Bartending classes typically run 40 to 100 hours and cost between $200 and $1,000, depending on whether you take them in person or online and where you live.
  • You must be at least 18 or 21 years old (your state determines which) and pass a background check with no felony convictions related to alcohol or violence.
  • After passing the exam, you submit your process to your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board along with proof of class completion, your ID, and the process fee.
  • Processing times range from two weeks to two months, and some states let you work while your license is pending if your employer sponsors you.

Finding out what your state requires

Start by searching "[your state] bartender license requirements" or visiting your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board website directly. The board name varies: in California it is the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control; in New York it is the State Liquor Authority; in Texas it is the Alcoholic Beverage Commission. A few states—including some in the Midwest—do not require a statewide bartender's license at all, though individual cities or counties may have their own rules.

Once you find your state board's website, look for a section on "bartender licenses" or "on-premises server licenses." You will find the age requirement, whether a class is mandatory, what the exam covers, the process fee, and processing time. If the website is unclear, call the board directly—they handle these questions constantly and can tell you in five minutes whether you need a class, where to take one, and what happens next.

Taking a bartending class

If your state requires a class, you have two main options: in-person classes at a bartending school or online courses. In-person classes typically run 40 to 100 hours spread over two to eight weeks, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Online classes are usually self-paced and can be completed in one to four weeks. Both types cover the same core material: how to make drinks, how to check IDs, how to spot intoxication, local alcohol laws, and customer service.

The cost varies widely. In-person classes usually run $300 to $1,000, while online courses range from $200 to $600. Some bartending schools offer job placement help or connections to bars in your area, which can be useful if you are new to the industry. Before you enroll, check whether the school is recognized by your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board—not all schools are, and taking a class at an unrecognized school will not count toward your license.

Your class will give you a certificate of completion, which you will need when you explore for your license. Keep this certificate safe; you will submit it with your process.

Passing the bartender exam

After you finish your class, you take a written exam. The exam tests your knowledge of the material covered in class: how to make standard drinks, how to recognize fake IDs, the signs of intoxication, and your state's specific alcohol laws. Most exams are multiple-choice and run 50 to 100 questions. You usually have one to two hours to complete it.

The passing score is typically 70 to 80 percent, depending on your state. If you fail, you can usually retake the exam after a waiting period (often 30 days) and pay a retake fee. Some bartending schools include exam prep or practice tests in their course, so ask about that when you enroll. The exam is usually administered by the bartending school itself or by your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board.

Submitting your license process

Once you pass the exam, you submit an process to your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board. You will need your exam results, your class certificate, a government-issued ID, proof of age, and the process fee (usually $50 to $200). Some states also require a background check, which you may have to pay for separately ($20 to $50).

You can usually submit your process online, by mail, or in person at your state board's office. Online submission is fastest. Include all required documents—missing paperwork will delay your process. Some states let you start working as a bartender while your process is pending if your employer sponsors you or vouches for you; others require you to wait until your license arrives. Ask your employer or the state board which applies to you.

How long it takes and what happens next

Processing times vary. Some states issue licenses within two to three weeks; others take six to eight weeks. A few states are slower and may take up to three months, especially if they are backlogged. You can usually check the status of your process online or by calling the state board.

Once approved, your license will arrive by mail or be available for pickup at your state board's office. Your license is usually valid for three to five years, depending on your state. You will need to renew it before it expires, which typically involves paying a renewal fee and sometimes taking a short refresher course. Some states require you to renew every year; others every three years.

What to do if your state has no statewide requirement

A handful of states do not require a statewide bartender's license. However, this does not mean you can bartend without any credential. Your city or county may have its own rules, or your employer may require you to take a class and pass a test anyway. Some bars voluntarily require their bartenders to have a license or certification even in states where it is not legally required, because it shows you know the job and reduces their liability.

If you live in a state with no statewide requirement, contact your city or county health department or liquor board to ask whether local rules explore. If there are no local rules either, ask your employer what they require. You may still want to take a bartending class and get certified voluntarily—it makes you more hireable and shows customers and employers that you take the job seriously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a bartending license to work at a nightclub or restaurant bar?

It depends on your state. Most states require a license to pour any alcoholic drinks for money, whether at a bar, restaurant, nightclub, or hotel. A few states do not have a statewide requirement but may have local rules. Ask your employer or your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board to be sure.

Can I get a bartending license if I have a criminal record?

Most states allow you to get a license if your conviction is old or unrelated to alcohol or violence. Felonies related to alcohol, drugs, or violence usually disqualify you. Contact your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control board with details of your record; they can tell you whether you are may be able to access.

How much does a bartending license cost in total?

The total cost ranges from $250 to $1,200, depending on your state and whether you take an in-person or online class. A typical breakdown is $300 to $800 for the class, $50 to $200 for the process fee, and $20 to $50 for a background check if required. Some states charge less; others charge more.

Can I work as a bartender while my license process is pending?

Some states let you work under your employer's sponsorship while you wait; others require you to have your license in hand before you start. Check your state's rules or ask your employer. If you can work while pending, you will still need to show your employer proof that you have applied.

How often do I need to renew my bartending license?

Renewal periods vary by state—usually every one to five years. When your license is about to expire, your state board will send you a renewal notice. Renewal typically costs $25 to $100 and may require a short refresher course or just a fee payment, depending on your state.