Top 10 Cocktail Server Certifications

Certifications are important for a cocktail server in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to provide excellent service. Certification can also be used as an indicator of reliability, professionalism, and dedication to the industry. In addition, certification can be used as a tool to help employers identify qualified applicants and make decisions about hiring. Finally, certifications can also provide cocktail servers with access to networking opportunities and other resources that can help them advance their career.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the most beneficial certifications for Cocktail Servers and explain how they can help enhance a Cocktail Server's career.

What are Cocktail Server Certifications?

Cocktail server certification is a type of training program or course that teaches bartenders and cocktail servers how to properly serve drinks in a bar or restaurant setting. It covers topics such as responsible alcohol service, customer service skills, knowledge of different types of alcohol, and food safety. By completing this certification, bartenders and cocktail servers can demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the industry to employers, customers, and other stakeholders.

Cocktail server certification can help by giving bartenders and cocktail servers the skills they need to be more successful in their job. It helps them understand the proper way to handle alcohol responsibly and make sure customers have a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, it gives them the ability to identify alcoholic beverages quickly and accurately—something that can be beneficial when serving a large number of customers at once. Finally, it provides the opportunity for bartenders to show their professionalism by having a certificate from an official program that verifies their skills.

Pro Tip: Before applying for a cocktail server certification, make sure to research the requirements in your area. Different states and cities may have different regulations regarding alcohol service, so it's important to know what you're expected to know before taking the certification exam. Additionally, take advantage of online courses or practice tests to help prepare yourself for the exam.

Related: What does a Cocktail Server do?

Top 10 Cocktail Server Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Bartender (CPB)

Certified Professional Bartender (CPB) is a certification program offered by the National Bartenders Association. It is designed to recognize bartenders who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of bartending. The CPB certification is designed to demonstrate that a bartender has the skills necessary to serve customers safely, responsibly and professionally.

The CPB certification requires completion of an online course, which typically takes between 25-30 hours to complete. This course covers topics such as alcohol safety, drink recipes, customer service, bar management and more. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass an exam administered by the National Bartenders Association.

The cost for the CPB certification varies depending on where you take the course and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, courses range from $200-$500 USD with additional fees for taking the exam.

Once certified, CPBs are eligible for discounts on products and services related to their profession as well as access to job postings through the National Bartender's Association website.

2. Certified Mixologist (CM)

A Certified Mixologist (CM) is an individual who has completed a course of study and passed a certification exam in order to demonstrate mastery of the craft of mixology. The certification is offered by the United States Bartenders Guild (USBG).

In order to become certified, applicants must first complete an online course which covers topics such as cocktail history, beverage service and preparation, drink recipes, and customer service. After completing the course, applicants must then pass a written exam which tests their knowledge of mixology.

The cost of the online course and exam are $199 USD. It typically takes between 6-8 weeks to complete the coursework and take the exam. Once certified, CMs will receive a certificate from USBG recognizing them as a Certified Mixologist.

3. Advanced Mixology Certification (AMC)

Advanced Mixology Certification (AMC) is a certification program for bartenders and mixologists who want to become experts in the craft of mixing drinks. It is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of mixology and the art of creating cocktails. The program consists of two levels: Advanced Mixology I and Advanced Mixology II.

The first level, Advanced Mixology I, takes approximately 12 weeks to complete. During this time, students will learn about the fundamentals of mixology, such as flavor profiles and techniques for creating unique cocktails. They will also gain hands-on experience by practicing their skills behind a bar. At the end of this course, students must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The second level, Advanced Mixology II, takes an additional 12 weeks to complete. During this time, students will explore more advanced topics such as molecular mixology and cocktail history. They will also have the opportunity to create their own signature drinks and recipes. At the end of this course, students must pass another exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to obtain the AMC certification, prospective bartenders must successfully complete both levels of the program and pass both exams with a score of 80% or higher. The cost for each level varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD per level.

4. National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe Alcohol®

The National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe Alcohol® is an online training program designed to teach responsible alcohol service. The program covers topics such as state and federal laws, recognizing signs of intoxication, and how to handle difficult situations. It also includes information on checking IDs, preventing sales to minors, and more.

The program takes approximately 4 hours to complete and can be taken at your own pace. To get started, you must first create an account on the website. Once registered, you will be able to purchase the course for $15. After completing the course, you will receive a certificate of completion that is valid for 5 years.

5. TIPS Alcohol Training Program (ATP)

The TIPS Alcohol Training Program (ATP) is a comprehensive training program designed to educate individuals on the responsible service, sale, and consumption of alcohol. The program is based on the principles of responsible alcohol management and provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent intoxication, underage drinking, and drunk driving.

The ATP consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person class. The online course takes approximately four hours to complete, while the in-person class typically takes about three hours. Both components must be completed in order for participants to receive their certification.

To get certified through the TIPS Alcohol Training Program, individuals must first register for a course at a participating location. Once registered, they will be provided with instructions on how to access the online portion of the program. After completing both components, participants will receive their certification card which is valid for three years from date of issue.

The cost of the TIPS Alcohol Training Program varies depending on location; however, most locations charge around $50 per person for both the online course and in-person class.

6. International Bartenders Association (IBA) Certification

The International Bartenders Association (IBA) is a global organization that provides bartending certifications to individuals who have completed the necessary educational requirements. The IBA certification is an internationally recognized qualification for professional bartenders, and it is essential for anyone looking to work in the hospitality industry.

The IBA certification process typically takes around four weeks to complete. To get certified, applicants must first complete an online application form and submit a copy of their resume. After this, they will be required to attend a two-day intensive training course where they will learn about the history of cocktails, bar management and customer service skills. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants will take an exam and receive their certificate upon passing.

The cost of getting IBA certified varies depending on the country you are based in and the type of training you choose to take. Generally speaking, courses range from $200 - $400 USD per person.

In addition to providing certification, the IBA also offers various other resources such as networking opportunities with other bartenders across the globe, access to exclusive events and competitions, and discounts on products related to bartending.

7. BarSmarts Advanced Certification

BarSmarts Advanced Certification is a comprehensive online program that provides bartenders with the skills and knowledge they need to become successful in the hospitality industry. It is designed to help bartenders gain the confidence and expertise they need to serve customers, create drinks, and manage a bar.

The BarSmarts Advanced Certification program consists of four modules that cover topics such as spirits, mixology, service etiquette, and bar management. Each module includes video lessons and quizzes that test students’ understanding of the material. The program also includes an interactive forum where students can ask questions and get feedback from other bartenders who have already completed the course.

The BarSmarts Advanced Certification takes approximately three months to complete. Students must complete all four modules before taking the final exam which is administered online. To receive certification, students must pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of the BarSmarts Advanced Certification program is $395 USD. This fee covers all four modules as well as access to the interactive forum and final exam.

8. Professional Bartending School of America (PBSA) Certification

The Professional Bartending School of America (PBSA) Certification is a nationally recognized certification program that provides bartenders with the skills and knowledge needed to become successful in the industry. The program consists of a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of bartending, including product knowledge, customer service, drink mixing techniques, and more. The course takes approximately 4 weeks to complete and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice.

To get certified, students must attend an accredited PBSA school and successfully complete the course. Upon completion of the course, students will receive their certificate from PBSA and be eligible for employment in any bar or restaurant. The cost of the course varies depending on the school but typically ranges from $500-$1000.

9. The American Bartending School Certificate of Completion

The American Bartending School Certificate of Completion is a certificate that proves successful completion of the American Bartending School’s bartending course. The course typically takes around 40 hours to complete and covers a variety of topics related to bartending, such as drink recipes, customer service skills, and alcohol safety. In order to receive the certificate, students must pass all tests and quizzes with a score of 80% or higher. The cost of the course varies by location but generally ranges from $200-400.

10. American Bar Institute (ABI) Cocktail Server Certification

The American Bar Institute (ABI) Cocktail Server Certification is a comprehensive program designed to provide cocktail servers with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve alcoholic beverages in a responsible manner. The certification is offered as an online course, which takes approximately 8 hours to complete.

To get ABI Cocktail Server Certification, students must first register for the course on the ABI website. After registering, students will be given access to the online course materials, which include lectures, videos, and quizzes. Upon successful completion of all course materials and passing a final exam, students will receive their ABI Cocktail Server Certification.

The cost of the ABI Cocktail Server Certification is $150 USD. This fee includes access to all course materials and the final exam.

Do You Really Need a Cocktail Server Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the context in which you plan to use a cocktail server certificate. If you are looking to work as a professional bartender or serve drinks in a restaurant, then a certificate may be required by your employer. In some cases, employers may prefer that their employees have completed an accredited program or have certification from an organization such as the National Bartenders Association.

However, if you are simply planning to host parties for friends and family or serve drinks at casual gatherings, then a formal certificate may not be necessary. In these situations, it is more important to be knowledgeable about the different types of alcohol and cocktails available and understand how to properly mix drinks and serve them responsibly. A general understanding of alcoholic beverages and bartending techniques can often be gained through experience or online research without having to enroll in an official course.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a cocktail server certificate will depend on the specific requirements of your job or the expectations of your guests. If there is any doubt about what is expected of you in either situation, it is best to ask questions ahead of time so that you can determine what type of certification (if any) is needed before attending events where alcoholic beverages will be served.

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FAQs About Cocktail Server Certifications

1. What is a Cocktail Server Certification?

Answer: A Cocktail Server Certification is a certification program that provides training and knowledge on the techniques, tools, and regulations related to serving alcoholic beverages in a professional setting.

2. Where can I find a Cocktail Server Certification course?

Answer: There are many online courses available, as well as local bartending schools that offer certification programs. You can also check with your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control Board for more information.

3. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified depends on the individual and the specific course they are taking; however, most courses require between 8-10 hours of study time.

4. Is there an exam associated with becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs require you to pass an exam at the end of the program, which will test your knowledge of alcohol safety and service regulations.

5. Are there any special requirements for becoming certified?

Answer: Generally speaking, you must be 21 years old or older in order to become certified as a cocktail server; however, some states may have additional requirements such as age verification or background checks.