How Old Do You Have to Be to Bartend?

Bartending is a popular profession that requires skill, knowledge, and a certain level of responsibility.

One question that many aspiring bartenders have is how old they need to be in order to legally bartend. In this article, we’ll explore the age requirements for bartending, as well as some of the other requirements that aspiring bartenders should be aware of.

The Legal Age to Bartend

In the United States, the legal drinking age is 21 years old. This means that in order to serve alcohol as a bartender, you must be at least 21 years old. This age requirement is set by federal law and applies to all states.

It’s important to note that some states may have additional age requirements for bartenders. For example, in California, bartenders must be at least 21 years old to serve alcohol, but they must also be at least 18 years old to handle and serve non-alcoholic beverages.

Other Requirements for Bartending

In addition to the age requirement, there are other requirements that aspiring bartenders should be aware of.

These requirements can vary depending on the state and the establishment, but some of the most common requirements include:

• Completion of a bartending course: Many states require aspiring bartenders to complete a bartending course before they can legally bartend. These courses teach aspiring bartenders about the laws and regulations surrounding alcohol service, as well as the skills and techniques needed to be a successful bartender.
• Certification: Some states require bartenders to be certified in order to legally bartend. Certification typically involves passing an exam that covers topics such as alcohol laws, responsible service, and basic bartending skills.
• Background check: Some establishments may require bartenders to undergo a background check before they can be hired. This is to ensure that the bartender does not have a criminal record that would prevent them from legally serving alcohol.
• Experience: While not a requirement, many establishments prefer to hire bartenders who have previous bartending experience. This is because experienced bartenders are typically more knowledgeable about alcohol service and can handle high-pressure situations more effectively.