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This question is about bartender education.
How long is bartending school?
Bartending school takes around 40 hours to complete. Most bartending students can finish the course anywhere from two weeks to one month. Each state has different requirements to get a bartending license. Check with your state to find out more details.
Bartending school schedules. Most bartending schools offer classes up to three times per day. They typically hold classes every day of the week except Sunday. Students are also encouraged to go to the school between class hours to practice their bartending abilities at their own pace.
Required learning and licenses. You learn about the laws and penalties regarding minors, spotting the stages of intoxication in customers, and how to handle and prevent alcohol-induced disturbances.
Online classes are also available to achieve your bartending license; just be sure they are state-approved.
Not all bars and restaurants require a bartending license. However, getting one can help you stand out when seeking a job. This license also helps to familiarize you with common bartending practices and etiquette.
Some baseline requirements of most bartending roles include the following:
You must be at least 21 years of age
You must be able to pass a background check
You must have food industry experience, preferably bar experience, such as working as a barback
Many bartenders start in other positions in the food service industry. They might be waiters or waitresses, barbacks, hosts or hostesses, or cooks.
Mixology. Practicing the art of mixology is crucial in getting a job as a bartender because this is what the job is all about. Try mixing traditional cocktails first, and once you have that down, try mixing some original drinks you come up with yourself.
It is also beneficial to get an objective opinion on your drink-making abilities, so try to find people who can honestly critique your traditional drinks and original creations.
Bartending mentors. Many bartenders start as barbacks in bars or restaurants. This position requires no previous experience and is a great way to become acclimated to working behind a bar. During this time, you may also want to try to get a bartender that works with you to act as a mentor.
Having a mentor in bartending is invaluable because they can pass on to you all of the tricks of the trade and the wisdom they've gained.
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