Education · 1 of 4

The path

Nobody hires a stranger straight onto a busy bar. You work your way behind it.

1. 1

   Reach the legal age

   Now

   Most states let you serve alcohol at 18, and some require 19 or 21 to work behind a bar. Your state's alcohol board sets it.

2. 2

   Start as a barback or a server

   6 months to 2 years

   The normal way in. You stock, cut fruit, run ice and watch how the bar is run. Bars promote off the floor.

3. 3

   Get your server permit

   A few hours

   About half the states require alcohol server training. It is an online course of a few hours ending in a card. Training for Intervention Procedures is the best known provider.

4. 4

   Get behind the bar

   1 to 3 years

   Weeknights first, then weekends once you can keep up with the tickets.

5. 5

   Specialize, or run the bar

   3 to 10 years

   Cocktail bartender, bar manager, beverage director, or your own place.