Top 11 Bar Server Certifications

Certifications are important for bar servers in the job market because they provide evidence of their knowledge and skills in serving alcohol responsibly. Certification programs validate a bar server's understanding of state laws, regulations, and best practices related to alcohol service. This can demonstrate to potential employers that the server is knowledgeable and trustworthy when it comes to alcohol service, thus increasing their employability. Additionally, certifications can help servers stand out from other applicants by showing their commitment to professional development. In some states, certification may even be required for legal employment as a bar server.

This article reviews the top certifications for Bar Servers and explains how they can help enhance a bar server's career.

What are Bar Server Certifications?

Bar server certification is a type of training and certification program that provides people with the skills and knowledge they need to safely serve alcoholic beverages in bars and restaurants. Through bar server certification, individuals learn about the laws, regulations, and best practices for serving alcohol responsibly. They also learn how to recognize signs of intoxication, prevent customers from becoming intoxicated, properly check identification for underage drinkers, handle disagreements between patrons, and more. By having bar server certification, servers demonstrate their commitment to providing a safe drinking environment for their customers. This can help build trust between customers and staff members while also promoting an overall safer atmosphere within the establishment. Additionally, having bar server certification may be required by certain state or local laws; thus, it is important for those working in establishments that serve alcohol to have such certification.

Pro Tip: To become a certified bar server, make sure to understand the local alcohol laws and regulations in your area. Knowing these laws can help you serve customers responsibly and ensure that you are following proper protocols for serving alcoholic beverages.

Related: What does a Bar Server do?

Top 11 Bar Server Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Bar Servers today.

1. Certified Professional Bartender (CPB)

Certified Professional Bartender (CPB) is a certification program offered by the National Bartenders Association (NBA). The program is designed to recognize bartenders who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in their craft. It is intended to provide bartenders with the skills and confidence necessary to excel in their profession.

The CPB certification process includes an online exam that covers topics such as customer service, drink recipes, bar management, and alcohol safety. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass and receive their certification.

In order to become certified, candidates must first register for the CPB program through the NBA website. Registration fees are $99 for members of the NBA or $149 for non-members. After registering, candidates can access study materials and practice exams online before taking the official exam.

Once a candidate has passed the exam, they will receive an official certificate from the NBA confirming their status as a Certified Professional Bartender. This certificate is valid for two years and can be renewed by retaking the CPB exam every two years or by completing additional continuing education courses offered by the NBA.

2. Certified Food & Beverage Professional (CFBP)

The Certified Food & Beverage Professional (CFBP) is an internationally recognized credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of professional knowledge and expertise in the food and beverage industry. It is awarded by the International Food & Beverage Management Association (IFBMA).

To obtain the CFBP, individuals must meet certain educational requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, and demonstrate a minimum number of years of experience in the food and beverage industry. The educational requirements include completion of a college-level course in food and beverage management or equivalent experience. The exam consists of multiple choice questions on topics such as menu planning, customer service, nutrition, and sanitation.

The CFBP certification is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years, individuals must renew their certification by completing continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

The cost to obtain the CFBP certification varies depending on whether you are taking the exam online or in person. The online version costs $295 USD while the in-person version costs $395 USD.

3. National Restaurant Association ServSafe Alcohol Certification

The National Restaurant Association ServSafe Alcohol Certification is a program designed to help restaurant employees understand the responsible service of alcohol. It is an important certification for anyone who works in a bar, restaurant, or other establishment that serves alcohol. The program covers topics such as state and local laws, identification verification, preventing intoxication, serving techniques, and intervention techniques.

The certification process takes about two hours to complete and consists of both a written exam and a practical skills assessment. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as alcohol laws, responsible service practices, and prevention strategies. The practical skills assessment tests the participant’s ability to properly serve alcohol responsibly.

To get certified you must attend an approved ServSafe Alcohol course taught by a certified instructor. You can find courses offered through your local community college or online training providers such as Learn2Serve or eFoodhandlers. Once you have completed the course you will be able to take the exam at any participating testing center.

The cost of the program varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD for the course plus any applicable taxes or fees.

4. Certified Mixologist (CM)

A Certified Mixologist (CM) is a professional designation given to individuals who have achieved a certain level of expertise in the field of mixology. It is awarded by the United States Bartenders Guild (USBG). To become certified, applicants must complete an online course and pass an exam administered by USBG. The course covers topics such as drink recipes, bar equipment, liquor laws, and customer service. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a passing score of 80% or higher.

The certification process typically takes around two months from start to finish. Applicants must first register for the online course and pay the associated fee ($100 USD). Once they have completed the course, they can then apply to take the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CM certificate within 2-3 weeks.

The cost of becoming a Certified Mixologist varies depending on where you take the course and how many classes you take. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 USD for the entire certification process.

5. Certified Bar Manager (CBM)

A Certified Bar Manager (CBM) is a professional certification that demonstrates a bar manager’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the management of a bar or restaurant. The CBM certification is offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

It typically takes about two to three months to complete the CBM program. To get certified, you must first complete an online application and submit it to the NRAEF for review. Once approved, you will be given access to an online course that covers topics such as food safety, beverage service, customer service and financial management. After completing the coursework, you will take an exam at one of the NRAEF-approved testing centers. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your CBM certificate.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take the course and which testing center you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $400-$600 USD.

6. Certified Cicerone Beer Server Certification

The Certified Cicerone Beer Server Certification is an entry-level certification program designed to help individuals gain a basic understanding of beer and beer service. It is administered by the Cicerone Certification Program, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and recognizing beer expertise.

The certification consists of both a written exam and an oral exam. The written exam covers topics such as beer styles, ingredients, brewing processes, storage and service techniques. The oral exam tests the candidate's knowledge of beer styles, flavors, food pairings, and service techniques.

It takes approximately two hours to complete the written exam and one hour for the oral exam. Candidates must score at least 80% on each part of the exam in order to pass.

To get certified as a Certified Cicerone Beer Server, you must register with the Cicerone Certification Program and pay for the certification fee ($69). Once registered, you will be able to access study materials online or through printed books that are available for purchase from the Cicerone website. After studying these materials thoroughly, you can then take the exams at an approved testing center near you or online through ProctorU (an additional fee applies).

Once you have passed both parts of the exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your official Certified Cicerone Beer Server Certificate in the mail within four weeks.

7. Advanced Wine Service Certification (AWSC)

Advanced Wine Service Certification (AWSC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior knowledge and skills in the service of wine. The AWSC is administered by the Society of Wine Educators, an international non-profit organization dedicated to advancing wine education.

The AWSC is a two-part program that consists of a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as viticulture, enology, wine styles and tasting techniques, food pairing, and service standards. The practical exam tests the candidate’s ability to identify wines blind, pour wines correctly, and provide appropriate service for each type of wine.

The AWSC program typically takes between three months to one year to complete depending on the individual’s study habits and dedication. To get started with the program, candidates must first register online with the Society of Wine Educators or through their local chapter. Once registered, they will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online course materials and exams.

The cost for the AWSC program varies depending on whether you are taking it as an individual or as part of a group. For individuals, registration fees range from $150-$250 USD depending on membership status with the Society of Wine Educators. Group rates are typically lower than individual rates but vary depending on group size and other factors.

8. International Bartenders Association Certification

The International Bartenders Association (IBA) Certification is a professional qualification that demonstrates a bartender’s knowledge and skills in the field of bartending. It is an internationally recognized certification that shows employers that a bartender has attained a certain level of competency in their craft.

The IBA Certification process consists of two parts: an online study program and a practical exam. The online study program covers topics such as bar operations, mixology, customer service, and product knowledge. This program can take anywhere from one to three months to complete depending on the individual's learning speed and dedication.

Once the online program is completed, the individual must pass a practical exam administered by an IBA certified instructor or examiner. During this exam, the candidate will be tested on their ability to make drinks accurately and quickly, as well as their customer service skills. After passing this exam, they will receive their IBA Certification which is valid for five years before it needs to be renewed.

The cost of obtaining an IBA Certification varies depending on where you are getting your certification from and if you are taking any additional courses or workshops prior to taking the exam. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $200-$600 USD.

9. Court of Master Sommeliers Level I Certification

The Court of Master Sommeliers Level I Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide sommeliers with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful in the wine industry. It is the first step in becoming a certified sommelier, and it takes approximately two days to complete.

In order to get the certification, candidates must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as wine service, tasting techniques, food pairings, and more. After passing the exam, candidates must attend a two-day course that includes lectures, tastings, and practical exams. During this course, they will learn about different grape varieties, regions of production, winemaking techniques, and more. At the end of the course, they will take a final exam which they must pass in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the Court of Master Sommeliers Level I Certification varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD.

10. Wine and Spirit Education Trust Level 2 Award in Wines

The Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2 Award in Wines is an internationally recognized qualification that provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of wines. It is designed for those who are new to wine, or those who want to gain a deeper understanding of wines. The course covers a range of topics including grape varieties, wine production, food and wine pairing, tasting techniques and more.

The WSET Level 2 Award in Wines typically takes around 30 hours to complete and can be taken either as a classroom-based course or online. The online version consists of four modules which must be completed within six months.

To get the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines you must successfully pass an exam at the end of the course. This exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and is marked out of 100%.

The cost for the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from £200 - £400.

11. National Bartenders Association Bar Mastery Program

The National Bartenders Association Bar Mastery Program is a comprehensive certification program designed to help bartenders become the best in their field. It consists of three levels of certification: Certified Professional Bartender (CPB), Advanced Professional Bartender (APB), and Master Professional Bartender (MPB).

The program takes approximately 3-6 months to complete, depending on the level of certification chosen. To get started, individuals must first join the National Bartenders Association and pay the annual membership fee. After joining, individuals can register for courses through the NBA website or contact an accredited instructor to begin their training.

Each course requires a fee that varies depending on the level of certification being pursued. The cost for each level is as follows:

• Certified Professional Bartender (CPB): $200
• Advanced Professional Bartender (APB): $400
• Master Professional Bartender (MPB): $600

Once registered, individuals will be provided with course materials, including textbooks, practice exams, and video tutorials. Upon completion of all course requirements and passing all exams, individuals will receive their certification from the NBA.

Do You Really Need a Bar Server Certificate?

Whether or not you need a bar server certificate depends on where you want to work. In some states, bartending requires a special certification, while in others it does not. It is important to research the specific regulations in the state you plan to work in before making any decisions about obtaining a bar server certificate.

In states that require certification, having a bar server certificate can be very beneficial for aspiring bartenders. Having this certification demonstrates that the bartender has taken the time and effort to properly train for the job. This can make them more attractive to employers and give them an edge over other applicants who do not have this certification. Additionally, having a bar server certificate may also be required for certain types of alcohol service licenses, such as those needed for selling craft beers or hard alcohol.

Furthermore, having a bar server certificate can also provide assurance to customers that their drinks are being served responsibly and safely by trained professionals. This is especially important in states with strict alcohol laws and regulations. A certified bartender is knowledgeable about how to serve alcohol responsibly and follow state laws regarding serving drinks. This helps ensure that customers are served responsibly and all legal requirements are met when serving alcoholic beverages.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a bar server certificate depends on where you plan to work as well as what type of alcohol service license you may need. For those looking to become professional bartenders in states requiring certification, obtaining this credential could be very beneficial for their job prospects and provide assurance to customers that they are being served responsibly by trained professionals.

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FAQs About Bar Server Certifications

1. What is a Bar Server Certification?

Answer: A Bar Server Certification is a certificate that verifies an individual has completed training in the safe and responsible serving of alcohol. It provides proof to employers and regulatory bodies that the holder has received the necessary training to serve alcohol responsibly.

2. Who needs a Bar Server Certification?

Answer: In many states, it is required for anyone who serves or sells alcoholic beverages. Employers may also require their staff to have certification in order to be employed as a bar server or bartender.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The length of time it takes to get certified varies depending on the type of course taken and the student's ability to complete the coursework. Generally, courses can range from one day up to several weeks in length, with some online courses taking as little as two hours to complete.

4. What topics are covered in a Bar Server Certification course?

Answer: Topics typically covered include laws and regulations related to alcohol service, identifying signs of intoxication and over-service, food safety and sanitation, customer service skills, drink recipes, and how to prevent underage drinking.

5. Where can I find a Bar Server Certification course?

Answer: There are many organizations that offer Bar Server Certifications such as Responsible Alcohol Service (RAS) programs, state-approved programs or private companies offering online courses or classroom instruction.