Shake, Stir, and Serve: What You Need to Become a Bartender in Illinois

Are you passionate about mixology and want to become a bartender in Illinois? The state is known for its vibrant nightlife, and bartenders are in high demand. However, to work behind the bar in Illinois, you’ll need to meet certain requirements and obtain the necessary certifications. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of becoming a bartender in Illinois, covering the essential steps, training programs, and licensing requirements.

Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you start your bartending journey, you’ll need to meet the basic requirements set by the state of Illinois. These include:

• Being at least 18 years old (21 years old to serve liquor)
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Being able to provide proof of identity and residency

Age Restrictions

In Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old to work in a bar or restaurant that serves liquor. However, to serve liquor, you must be at least 21 years old. This means that if you’re under 21, you can still work in a bar or restaurant, but you won’t be able to serve liquor.

Get the Necessary Training

While not mandatory, getting professional training can significantly improve your chances of becoming a successful bartender. There are several bartending schools and training programs available in Illinois, offering courses that cover:

• Mixology and cocktail recipes
• Bartending techniques and skills
• Customer service and communication
• Liquor laws and regulations
• Wine and beer knowledge

Some popular bartending schools in Illinois include:

• The Bartending Academy of Chicago
• The Mixology School of Chicago
• The Illinois Bartending School

Online Training Programs

If you prefer online training, there are several programs available that offer flexible and affordable courses. Some popular online bartending schools include:

• The Bartender’s Guild
• The United States Bartenders’ Guild
• The BarSmarts Program

Obtain the Necessary Certifications

In Illinois, bartenders are required to obtain a BASSET (Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training) certification. This certification is mandatory for all bartenders and servers who work in establishments that serve liquor.

BASSET Certification

The BASSET certification program is designed to educate bartenders and servers about responsible serving practices, liquor laws, and customer safety. The program covers topics such as:

• Liquor laws and regulations
• Responsible serving practices
• Customer safety and intervention techniques
• Blood alcohol content (BAC) and its effects

To obtain a BASSET certification, you’ll need to complete a training program approved by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC). The program typically takes 4-6 hours to complete and includes a written exam.

Get Licensed

In addition to the BASSET certification, you may need to obtain a liquor license to work as a bartender in Illinois. The type of license you need will depend on the type of establishment you work in and the type of liquor you serve.

Liquor Licenses

There are several types of liquor licenses available in Illinois, including:

• Class 1 liquor license: allows the sale of liquor, beer, and wine
• Class 2 liquor license: allows the sale of beer and wine only
• Class 3 liquor license: allows the sale of liquor, beer, and wine for on-premise consumption only

To obtain a liquor license, you’ll need to apply through the ILCC and meet the necessary requirements, which include:

• Being at least 21 years old
• Having a valid BASSET certification
• Passing a background check
• Paying the required licensing fees

Build Your Skills and Experience

While training and certifications are essential, building your skills and experience is crucial to becoming a successful bartender. Here are some tips to help you build your skills and experience:

• Practice your mixology skills by experimenting with different recipes and techniques
• Work on your customer service skills by practicing active listening and communication
• Learn about different types of liquor, beer, and wine to improve your knowledge and recommendations
• Consider working as a server or host/hostess to gain experience in the industry

Networking and Job Opportunities

Networking and job opportunities are essential to building your skills and experience. Consider attending industry events, joining bartending organizations, and applying for jobs at reputable establishments.

Some popular industry events in Illinois include:

• The Chicago Food and Wine Festival
• The Illinois Restaurant Association’s Annual Meeting
• The United States Bartenders’ Guild’s Annual Conference

Conclusion

Becoming a bartender in Illinois requires meeting the basic requirements, getting the necessary training, obtaining the necessary certifications, and building your skills and experience. By following these steps, you can set yourself up for success in the bartending industry and enjoy a rewarding and lucrative career.

Remember to always stay up-to-date with the latest liquor laws and regulations, and to continually build your skills and knowledge to stay ahead in the industry.

By following these requirements and building your skills and experience, you can become a successful bartender in Illinois and enjoy a rewarding and lucrative career.

What are the basic requirements to become a bartender in Illinois?

To become a bartender in Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to obtain a Food Handler’s Certification, which is required by the Illinois Department of Public Health. This certification ensures that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle food and drinks safely.

In addition to these basic requirements, it is also recommended that you have some experience in the food and beverage industry, either through volunteering or working in a related role. This will give you a better understanding of the skills and knowledge required to be a successful bartender. Many bartending schools and programs also offer certification programs that can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to become a bartender.

Do I need to attend bartending school to become a bartender in Illinois?

While attending bartending school is not required to become a bartender in Illinois, it can be beneficial in helping you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the industry. Bartending schools offer training programs that cover topics such as mixology, customer service, and responsible serving practices. These programs can also provide you with hands-on experience and the opportunity to practice your skills in a real-world setting.

Many bartending schools in Illinois are certified by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, which ensures that they meet certain standards and requirements. By attending a certified bartending school, you can be confident that you are receiving the training and education you need to become a successful bartender. Additionally, many employers in the industry prefer to hire bartenders who have completed a bartending program.

What is the Illinois BASSET certification and do I need it to become a bartender?

The Illinois BASSET (Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training) certification is a state-mandated certification program that is required for all bartenders and servers in Illinois. The program covers topics such as responsible serving practices, underage drinking prevention, and intervention techniques. To become a bartender in Illinois, you will need to complete a BASSET certification program and pass a certification exam.

The BASSET certification program is designed to ensure that bartenders and servers have the knowledge and skills necessary to serve alcohol responsibly and prevent underage drinking. The program is typically completed online or in a classroom setting and takes several hours to complete. Once you have completed the program and passed the certification exam, you will be issued a BASSET certification card, which is valid for three years.

How long does it take to become a bartender in Illinois?

The amount of time it takes to become a bartender in Illinois can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the path you choose to take. If you attend a bartending school, the program can typically be completed in a few weeks or months. If you choose to gain experience through volunteering or working in a related role, it may take longer to develop the skills and knowledge you need to become a bartender.

In general, it is recommended that you allow at least several months to a year to develop the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful bartender. This will give you time to complete a bartending program, gain experience, and develop the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the industry. Additionally, you will need to allow time to complete the BASSET certification program and obtain any other necessary certifications or licenses.

How much does it cost to become a bartender in Illinois?

The cost of becoming a bartender in Illinois can vary depending on the path you choose to take. If you attend a bartending school, the cost of the program can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. If you choose to gain experience through volunteering or working in a related role, there may be little to no cost involved.

In addition to the cost of a bartending program, you will also need to pay for the BASSET certification program, which typically costs around $10-$20. You may also need to pay for other certifications or licenses, such as a Food Handler’s Certification, which can cost around $10-$20. Overall, the total cost of becoming a bartender in Illinois can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

What kind of job opportunities are available for bartenders in Illinois?

There are many job opportunities available for bartenders in Illinois, including positions in bars, restaurants, hotels, and other establishments that serve alcohol. Bartenders can work in a variety of settings, from casual pubs to upscale cocktail bars, and can choose from a range of shifts and schedules.

In addition to traditional bartending positions, there are also many opportunities for bartenders to work in related roles, such as bar management, mixology, and beverage consulting. Many bartenders also choose to work as freelancers or consultants, providing services such as event bartending and cocktail catering. With the right skills and experience, the job opportunities for bartenders in Illinois are endless.

How much can I expect to earn as a bartender in Illinois?

The amount of money you can expect to earn as a bartender in Illinois can vary depending on your level of experience, the type of establishment you work in, and the location. On average, bartenders in Illinois can earn around $20,000-$40,000 per year, although experienced bartenders can earn much more.

In addition to your base salary, you can also expect to earn tips, which can significantly increase your earnings. Many bartenders in Illinois earn an additional $10,000-$20,000 per year in tips, although this can vary depending on the establishment and the level of service. Overall, the earning potential for bartenders in Illinois is good, and with experience and hard work, you can earn a good income in this field.