Top 11 Beverage Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for beverage managers in the job market because they provide evidence of their professional qualifications and knowledge. Having a certification demonstrates to employers that the individual has the necessary skills, experience and understanding of the industry to be successful in their role. Certifications also demonstrate that an individual is dedicated to staying up-to-date with current trends, techniques, and regulations in order to best serve customers and provide quality service. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for career advancement or higher pay as it shows employers that an individual is well-rounded and capable of taking on additional responsibilities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Beverage Managers, and explains how they can help advance a beverage manager's career.

What are Beverage Manager Certifications?

Beverage Manager Certification is a designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the management of beverage operations. It is designed for those who are experienced in the management of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and other hospitality venues. Beverage Manager Certification is offered through the National Restaurant Association's Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The certification provides a comprehensive overview of the best practices for managing beverage operations, including alcohol safety and responsible service, effective marketing strategies, menu development, financial management and more. Candidates must meet certain educational and experience requirements prior to applying for the certification. Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will become certified as a Beverage Manager by NRAEF.

Having a Beverage Manager Certification can help to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to excellence in beverage operations. It can also serve as a valuable asset when seeking employment or promotion within the hospitality industry. With this certification, employers are assured that their staff has been trained on key aspects of beverage operations and they will be able to provide customers with safe and enjoyable experiences. Additionally, it can open doors to new opportunities within different types of establishments throughout the industry.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of online beverage manager certification courses to learn about the fundamentals of managing a bar or restaurant's beverage program. These courses provide an in-depth look into topics such as liquor laws, inventory management, and product selection. By taking these courses, you will gain valuable knowledge and skills to help you become a successful beverage manager.

Related: What does a Beverage Manager do?

Top 11 Beverage Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Beverage Managers today.

1. Certified Professional Food and Beverage Executive (CPFBE)

Certified Professional Food and Beverage Executive (CPFBE) is a professional certification program designed to provide food and beverage industry professionals with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to excel in their field. The CPFBE credential is awarded by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The CPFBE program consists of three parts: an online course, an in-person assessment, and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as food safety, customer service, menu planning, cost control, marketing, and more. The in-person assessment tests participants' knowledge of the material covered in the online course. Finally, the final exam tests participants' ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes six months or longer to complete all three parts of the CPFBE program. Participants must also have at least two years of experience working in a food or beverage establishment before they can apply for certification.

The cost of the CPFBE program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1000 for the full program including both online and in-person components.

2. Certified Hospitality Beverage Manager (CHBM)

Certified Hospitality Beverage Manager (CHBM) is a professional certification program that provides hospitality professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to become an effective beverage manager. The certification is offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The CHBM certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in the foodservice or hospitality industry, including at least one year of experience as a beverage manager or assistant beverage manager. Applicants must also pass a written examination to demonstrate their knowledge of the principles and practices of hospitality beverage management.

The CHBM exam is offered twice each year, typically in March and September. To register for the exam, applicants must complete an online application form and pay a $100 fee. The fee covers both the cost of taking the exam and receiving a certificate upon successful completion.

The CHBM exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as menu planning, pricing, inventory control, customer service, marketing, safety and sanitation. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam. Upon passing the exam, applicants will be awarded their CHBM certification from NRAEF.

The cost for taking the CHBM exam is $100 USD and includes both the cost of taking the exam and receiving a certificate upon successful completion.

3. Certified Beverage Manager (CBM)

Certified Beverage Manager (CBM) is a certification program designed to help beverage professionals develop their knowledge and skills in the areas of beverage operations, management, and service. The program is administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The CBM course consists of two parts: an online self-study component and a proctored exam. The online self-study component covers topics such as menu planning, beverage purchasing and storage, wine service, beer service, spirits service and mixology. It also includes a review of relevant laws and regulations. The proctored exam tests knowledge in all areas covered by the online self-study component.

It typically takes about 8 weeks to complete the CBM program. To get certified, you must first complete the online self-study component before taking the proctored exam. The cost for the CBM program is $325 USD.

4. Certified Food and Beverage Professional (CFBP)

Certified Food and Beverage Professional (CFBP) is a certification program designed to provide professionals in the food and beverage industry with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities. The CFBP program is administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The certification process takes approximately 4-6 months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application and pay a $150 fee. Once approved, applicants will be required to complete three exams: a written exam, a practical exam, and an oral exam.

The written exam covers topics such as food safety, nutrition, menu planning, customer service, purchasing and inventory control, cost control, human resources management, marketing and sales strategies. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to prepare various dishes in accordance with established standards. The oral exam requires applicants to answer questions related to their experience in the food and beverage industry.

Once all three exams have been successfully completed, applicants will receive their CFBP certification from the NRAEF. The cost of the program is $150 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams.

5. Certified Bar Manager (CBM)

A Certified Bar Manager (CBM) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and expertise in the bar management industry. It is awarded by the National Association of Bar Executives (NABE) and is one of the most prestigious certifications available for bar professionals.

In order to become a CBM, individuals must complete a comprehensive training program that covers topics such as alcohol laws, customer service, marketing, financial management, and operations. The program typically takes around six months to complete and includes both online and in-person courses. Upon completion of the program, applicants must pass an exam administered by NABE in order to be certified.

The cost of becoming a CBM varies depending on the specific program chosen. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $800-$1,500 USD for all course materials and exam fees.

Overall, becoming a Certified Bar Manager is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in bar management while also increasing your earning potential within the industry.

6. Certified Bartender Professional (CBP)

Certified Bartender Professional (CBP) is a certification program offered by the National Bartenders Association. It is designed to recognize professional bartenders who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in their craft. The CBP certification is an industry-recognized credential that shows employers that you are knowledgeable and experienced in the art of bartending.

The CBP certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam, which covers topics such as alcohol laws, customer service, drink mixing techniques, and safety practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to obtain the CBP certification, applicants must first register with the National Bartenders Association and pay a fee of $150. Once registered, applicants can take the online exam at any time or attend an in-person proctored exam at one of the association's testing centers across the country. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CBP certificate within four weeks.

The cost for obtaining the Certified Bartender Professional (CBP) certification is $150 USD. This fee includes registration for the exam as well as your official certificate upon successful completion of the test.

7. Certified Wine Steward (CWS)

A Certified Wine Steward (CWS) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the world of wine. The CWS designation is awarded by the Society of Wine Educators, an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting wine education.

To become a Certified Wine Steward, one must first complete the Society of Wine Educators’ Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) program. This program consists of an online course, followed by an exam that covers topics such as viticulture, winemaking, grape varieties, wine regions, food and wine pairing, and more. The CSW program typically takes four to six months to complete.

Once the CSW program is completed, applicants can then apply for the CWS certification. This involves submitting a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their knowledge and experience in the field of wine. The application process also includes a written essay and an oral interview with members of the Society's Certification Committee.

The cost for becoming a Certified Wine Steward varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the Society of Wine Educators. If you are not already a member, then it will cost $395 for both the CSW course and CWS application fee; if you are already a member, then it will cost $295 for both fees combined.

8. National Restaurant Association ServSafe Alcohol® Certification

The National Restaurant Association ServSafe Alcohol® Certification is a program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to serve alcoholic beverages responsibly. The certification is a comprehensive training program that covers key topics such as state and federal laws, recognizing signs of intoxication, preventing intoxication, dealing with difficult situations, checking identification, and more. The program is offered in both online and classroom formats.

The online version of the course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and costs $110. The classroom version of the course takes approximately 5 hours to complete and costs $150. To obtain the certification, participants must pass an exam at the end of the course.

To get started on obtaining your National Restaurant Association ServSafe Alcohol® Certification, you can register for either an online or classroom course through the National Restaurant Association website. Once registered, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your course materials and take the exam when you are ready.

9. National Restaurant Association ServSafe® Food Handler Certification

The National Restaurant Association ServSafe® Food Handler Certification is a food safety certification program designed to teach food handlers the importance of safe food handling and preparation practices. It is based on the FDA Food Code and provides training in basic food safety, personal hygiene, cross-contamination, time and temperature control, cleaning and sanitizing, and other important topics related to food safety.

The certification course typically takes about four hours to complete. It is available online or in person at a local training center. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $10-$20. Online courses usually include an exam that must be taken at an approved testing center or proctored online. Upon successful completion of the exam, participants receive their ServSafe® Food Handler Certification card which is valid for three years.

10. International Sommelier Guild Level One Certification

The International Sommelier Guild Level One Certification is an introductory-level certification program for aspiring sommeliers. It is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the world of wine, and covers topics such as grape varieties, viticulture, winemaking, and wine tasting. The course takes approximately six weeks to complete and requires students to attend weekly classes and pass a final examination.

To get the certification, students must first register with the International Sommelier Guild (ISG). After registering, they will receive access to online course materials which include videos, lectures, quizzes and other resources. Once they have completed the online portion of the course they will be required to attend weekly classes in person. During these classes they will learn about different aspects of wine including grape varieties, viticulture and winemaking. At the end of each class there will be a quiz or exam that must be passed in order to move on to the next level. Once all classes are completed, students must take a final exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the International Sommelier Guild Level One Certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This fee includes registration for the course as well as access to all online materials and weekly classes.

11. Court of Master Sommeliers Introductory Sommelier Certificate

The Court of Master Sommeliers Introductory Sommelier Certificate is a comprehensive introduction to the world of wine and wine service. It is designed for those who are new to the field or those looking to refresh their knowledge. The program includes five days of intensive study, tastings, lectures, and practical exercises.

The program covers topics such as grape varieties, winemaking techniques, viticulture and geography, food and wine pairing, cellar management, and professional service. At the end of the course students will have an understanding of the fundamentals of wine and how to properly serve it in a restaurant setting.

It takes five days to complete the Introductory Sommelier Certificate course. Classes typically run from 9am-5pm each day with a break for lunch. The course is offered at many locations around the world including London, New York City, San Francisco, Tokyo, Sydney and more.

To get the certificate you must attend all five days of class and pass a written exam at the end of the course. The cost for attending varies depending on location but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Beverage Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Beverage Manager Certificate depends on the type of job you are applying for and the requirements of the employer. It is important to research the job opening and determine what qualifications are required for that particular position.

If you want to become a beverage manager in a restaurant, bar, hotel, or other food service establishment, then having a Beverage Manager Certificate could be beneficial. The certificate will demonstrate your knowledge of beverage management, including inventory control, purchasing procedures, safe handling of alcoholic beverages, cash handling skills, and customer service. Having a certificate may also give you an edge over other applicants who may not have this credential.

However, if your goal is to become a barista or bartender at a café or coffee shop, then having this certification may not be necessary. In these types of positions, employers usually look for people with experience in hospitality or customer service rather than specific certifications.

In conclusion, it is important to evaluate the job requirements carefully and determine whether or not obtaining a Beverage Manager Certificate would be beneficial for your career goals. This certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to beverage management and give you an edge over other applicants; however, it may not be necessary depending on the position you are applying for.

Related: Beverage Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Beverage Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Beverage Manager Certification?

A1. A Beverage Manager Certification is a professional certification which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the principles and practices of managing beverage operations. It typically covers topics such as beverage production, purchasing, inventory management, cost control, marketing, service and legal issues related to the beverage industry.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Beverage Manager?

A2. To become certified as a Beverage Manager, you must complete an accredited certification program or course that meets the standards set by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The course typically includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience in addition to exams and assessments to ensure mastery of the material covered.

Q3. How long does it take to get a Beverage Manager Certification?

A3. The amount of time required to complete a Beverage Manager Certification can vary depending on the program you choose, but most programs require at least 200 hours of instruction and hands-on experience over several weeks or months.

Q4. What are some benefits of having a Beverage Manager Certification?

A4. Having a Beverage Manager Certification demonstrates your knowledge and skills in beverage management while also providing you with an impressive credential that can help advance your career in this field. It also helps employers recognize your expertise in managing beverage operations and provides you with access to exclusive resources such as job postings and networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry.

Q5. Are there any special requirements for earning my certification?

A5: Depending on the program you choose, you may need to meet certain educational requirements such as having prior experience working in food service or hospitality management before enrolling in their program or taking additional courses outside of their program curriculum prior to taking their exams or assessments for certification eligibility purposes.