Where Do I Need A Bartending License?

One of the first and most asked questions to people looking to get a bartending job is "Do I need A License?" The answer is probably not. Not in most states but there are I believe 2 as of 2009 that require a license, Utah and Wisconsin and the license is very easy to obtain. This wild myth about needing a bartenders license is everywhere and it amazes me how prevelant it is on the web. I believe it started with the bartending schools. I think they made it sound like a certificate is some sort of license and from there it just spread.

Another possibility is TIPS. This stands for "Training for Intervention Procedures" and is a popular course that teaches responsibility basics for bartenders. It is not a license although these days it's becoming very popular for establishments to require the course to work as a bartender in their establishment. This is because their liability insurance is decreased by having you take the course. It's not a bad idea to take it as it's very short and having a certificate of completion certainly won't hurt. Cost is about $40. It can be taken online in most states. This course will no doubt be mandatory in the coming years.

So unless you live in Utah or Wisconsin, you won't need a bartending license. I would like to add that having a bartending license, a TIPS certificate or a bartending school certificate will have no effect on your competence as a bartender to a prospective employer. There is only one thing that qualifies you in the eyes of the owner or manager. Experience. Any certificates or licenses are just pieces of paper that are forced upon you or the owner by the state, or given to you by a bartending school.

So don't get hung up on this. If you want to bartend, get looking for a bartending job pouring beer in a dive if you have to. Even that type of experience is better than any piece of paper. From there you will rapidly move up the ladder if you find you like the bar business.