With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife and diverse communities, Florida is a top destination for aspiring Bartenders looking to build their careers. The Sunshine State offers countless job opportunities for those with or without prior experience, thanks to its thriving hospitality industry.
However, attending a bartending school in Florida can significantly enhance your skills, boost your confidence and improve your chances of landing a high-paying job in this competitive field.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 5 best bartending schools in Florida that offer comprehensive training, hands-on experience and professional certifications to help you kick-start your Bartending career.
5 Best Bartending Schools in Florida
There are many bartending schools in Florida that provide students with expert training and behind-the-bar experience. We’ll list 5 bartending schools that provide Bartender certificates to graduates upon completion of the program.
1. The ABC Bartending School
The ABC Bartending School is one of the most respected bartending schools in the entire nation. It was established more than 30 years ago, and it’s a state-licensed bartending institution with several locations across the state of Florida, providing a curriculum that covers everything from the basics of working as a Bartender to advanced mixology arts.
The school provides a fun, hands-on training approach to ensure students get practical experience in a bar-like environment. This means you’ll learn how to make the most popular drinks, manage the bar and deal with real-world problems. Moreover, the ABC School will help you get a job in the industry as soon as you complete their course.
Cost: $495 ($100 non-refundable for registration, plus $395 for tuition).
Locations and Contact: ABC Bartending School has several locations in Florida state:
- Miami Beach: (305) 267-1446
- Orlando: (407) 894-6719
- West Palm Beach: (561) 686-9021
- Fort Lauderdale: (954) 566-0488
- Jacksonville: (904) 641-9020
- Tampa: (813) 247-7333
Visit the ABC Bartending website to learn more.
2. Elite Bartending School and Event Staffing
As its name implies, the Elite Bartending School and Event Staffing is a state-of-the-art bartending school offering a 40-hour course encompassing all the fundamentals to make you an elite Bartender. It’s a state-licensed bartending school that offers high-volume Bartender training.
The school is known for its rigorous, yet fun courses, providing students with mixology, flair bartending and speed technique training. Graduates will earn a TIPS certificate, learn how to make the most popular cocktails and shots and become knowledgeable on all types of beverages. Moreover, the school puts an emphasis on connecting students with bar owners and event staffing companies.
Cost: $650 (tuition fee of $500, plus $150 for books and materials).
Locations and Contact: Elite Bartending School and Event Staffing has several locations across FL, including:
- Miami: (305) 460-2220
- Ft Lauderdale: (305) 713-7988
- Cudjoe Key: (786) 444-5364
- Ft Myers: (239) 900-6701
- Orlando: (407) 639-8188
- Naples: (239) 900-6701
- Tampa: (813) 635-6369
Visit the Elite Bartending School website to learn how to become an elite Bartender.
3. The 786-Bartend School
The 786-Bartend School is one of the best bartending schools Miami has to offer. It offers high-volume Bartender training and flexible class schedules for beginners and experienced Bartenders alike.
There are several reasons why many Bartenders choose the 786-Bartend School to start and advance their careers. The school has advanced courses in cocktail making, training for corporate events, flair bartending, presentation techniques and a Spirits Certification for champagne and wine service.
Cost: $495 ($150 registration fee, $200 on the first day of class and $145 mid-way through the course).
Locations and Contact: You’ll find 786-Bartend Schools exclusively in Miami:
- Miami: (786) 227-8363
Visit the 786-Bartend website to reserve a seat.
4. Florida Bartending School
The Florida Bartending School is a long-standing institution that focuses on creating knowledgeable and elite Bartenders using its modern facilities and a real-world-simulating approach. This school provides all the education and experience needed by aspiring Bartenders in a fun and engaging manner.
At the end of the courses, you’ll be taught everything you need to know about working in the hospitality industry, whether it’s restaurants, bars or corporate events. You’ll also get job placement assistance upon completion of the course.
Cost: $295 (deposit $100 to start).
Locations and Contact: The Florida Bartending School features 4 locations:
- Jacksonville: (904) 371-2827
- Pinellas Park: (727) 592-8119
- West Palm Beach: (561) 513-6336
- Melbourne: (321) 821-9444
Visit the Florida Bartending School website to get started.
5. Orlando Bartending Training Academy
The Orlando Bartending Academy provides a wide range of courses for aspiring and experienced Bartenders looking to hone their skills in the art of mixology using a fun, hands-on approach. Additionally, you can learn about the business side of bar management.
Their flagship program is a 40-hour course that covers all aspects of working behind the bar, including cocktail creation using innovative techniques, equipment handling and maintenance and responsible alcohol service.
Cost: $500 ($50 down payment).
Location and Contact: The Orlando Bartending Training Academy only has one location.
- Orlando: (407) 796-2969
Visit the Orlando Training Academy website to reserve a seat.
What to expect from bartending classes
Most bartending programs in Florida include both classroom instruction and practical training. Expect to spend time mastering drink recipes, learning alcohol safety procedures and practicing speed and accuracy behind the bar. Some courses also incorporate flair bartending — an entertaining and skillful way of preparing drinks that is popular in tourist areas.
Classes typically last between one to four weeks, depending on the program’s intensity. Many schools offer flexible schedules, including evening or weekend classes, to accommodate working students. Upon graduation, you may receive a Bartender certification that can enhance your job prospects.
Cost of Bartending School in Florida
The cost of attending bartending school in Florida can vary depending on the institution, course length and included materials.
On average, tuition ranges between $300 to $800 for a standard bartending program. Advanced mixology courses or additional certifications may increase the price. Some schools offer flexible payment plans or financial aid options to make training more accessible.
Additionally, consider the cost of supplementary materials like bartending kits or textbooks, which may not be included in the base tuition.
- Average cost: $300 — $800
- Additional costs: Bartending kits and certification fees
- Financial aid: Check for payment plans or scholarships
Bartender Licensing and Certification in Florida
While Florida does not mandate a state-issued bartending license, many employers prefer or require Bartenders to complete a responsible alcohol service training program. Such training can enhance your employment prospects and ensure you serve alcohol responsibly.
Several organizations offer certification courses covering state alcohol laws, responsible serving practices, and techniques to prevent over-serving. Completing these courses boosts your resume and prepares you to handle real-world situations effectively.
Why Attend a Bartending School in Florida?
From Miami Beach to Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, Florida is filled with thousands of high-end bars, nightclubs and fine dining establishments that are constantly looking to employ skilled Bartenders. Moreover, countless events happen throughout the year, as well as private parties that you can lend your professional services to.
Attending a bartending class can help you learn the basic skills of working as a Bartender and provide you with top-notch job placement opportunities in Miami, as well as the entire state of Florida. You’ll be taught by professional Bartenders, meaning you’ll get networking opportunities with industry professionals, which in turn will help you with job placement in the Bartending world as soon as you’re done with the course.
You’ll have the tools to work behind the bar as soon as you enter the workforce, and a bartending certificate to show for it.
Attending a bartending school in Florida also provides networking opportunities with industry professionals and fellow students, which can be invaluable when seeking employment.
Additionally, many schools offer job placement assistance, connecting graduates with potential employers in the hospitality industry. The hands-on experience gained during training ensures that you are well-prepared to meet the demands of a fast-paced bar environment, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
Bartending School vs. On-The-Job Training
Aspiring Bartenders often wonder whether attending a formal bartending school is more beneficial than learning on the job. Each path has its pros and cons.
- Bartending school: Offers structured learning, hands-on practice and industry certifications that can accelerate your career. It also allows you to build skills in a low-pressure environment.
- On-the-job training: Provides real-world experience but may take longer to master skills, and you often start in entry-level positions like Barback before progressing to Bartender.
Attending bartending school can give you a competitive edge by equipping you with knowledge of mixology techniques, bar management and customer service — skills that may take years to develop on the job.
Career Opportunities After Bartending School
After completing a course from any of the mentioned bartending schools, you’ll get a permanent bartending license and plenty of opportunity for employment. Florida is one of the states that doesn’t require bartenders to renew their bartending licenses every few years.
Once you acquire your bartending license, you can look forward to working in the following types of establishments.
Bartender at Bars and Restaurants
This is the most common career path for a Bartender after graduating from an elite bartending school. Florida’s nightlife and tourism industry provides many opportunities to work in upscale venues where creativity and expertise in creating unique drinks are valued.
Event Bartender for Corporate Events and Private Parties
Another lucrative option for a Bartender is to become an event Bartender who offers mixology skills at corporate events and private parties. The benefits of working in this area are the high pay rates, flexible schedule, networking opportunities and freedom to serve unique cocktails instead of having to abide by a pre-set cocktail menu.
Beverage Director or Bar Manager
With a little bit of extra training and experience, you can advance to a managerial position such as a Beverage Director or Bar Manager. These roles allow you to design cocktail menus, manage staff and help build up the reputation and brand of both the establishment you work in, as well as your own. These positions command higher salaries and give you the chance to influence the direction of your establishment.
Beyond working in bars, graduates can explore careers in event bartending, cruise ship bartending and hotel mixology. The hospitality industry in Florida, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Miami and Orlando, offers diverse opportunities for bartenders to work in high-end cocktail lounges, beachfront resorts and entertainment venues.
Some experienced Bartenders go on to open their own bars or become Beverage Consultants, curating drink menus for upscale restaurants.
High-Demand Bartending Locations in Florida
Florida’s thriving hospitality and tourism industry creates significant demand for skilled bartenders. Major cities like Miami, Orlando, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale are hotspots for nightlife, attracting millions of visitors each year. These areas offer numerous job opportunities in clubs, resorts, cruise ships and event venues.
- Miami: Known for luxury bars and beachfront clubs
- Orlando: High demand for bartenders in theme parks and resorts
- Tampa: Popular for brewery bars and cocktail lounges
- Fort Lauderdale: Known for yacht clubs and beach bars
Targeting these high-traffic regions can increase your chances of landing a well-paying job with tips.
Tips for Choosing the Right Bartending School
Selecting the appropriate bartending school is crucial for your success in the industry. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Accreditation and licensing: Ensure the school is licensed by the Florida Department of Education, which guarantees that it meets specific educational standards.
- Curriculum: Look for a comprehensive curriculum that covers both fundamental and advanced bartending skills, including mixology, customer service, and state alcohol laws.
- Hands-on training: Opt for schools that offer practical experience in a real bar setting to build your confidence and competence.
- Job placement assistance: Schools that provide job placement services can help you secure employment more quickly after graduation.
- Reviews and reputation: Research reviews and testimonials from former students to gauge the school’s reputation and the success of its graduates.
Extra Tips for Beginner Bartenders in Florida
Bartenders in Florida looking for employment should also read up on:
- Calculating paycheck and taxes
- Bartender salary trends
- Florida Labor Laws
- Free bartending courses online
FAQs On Florida Bartending Schools
To enroll in a bartending school in Florida, you must be at least 18 years old, as this is the minimum age to serve alcohol in the state. Additionally, individuals with certain felony convictions within the past five years may face restrictions when seeking employment as a Bartender.
Bartending courses in Florida typically require 40 hours of training, which can be completed over one to two weeks, depending on the school’s schedule and whether you choose full-time or part-time classes.
Florida does not mandate a bartending license to serve alcohol. However, many employers prefer or require completion of a responsible alcohol service training program, such as the Florida Responsible Vendor Program, to ensure compliance with state laws and promote responsible alcohol service.
The cost of bartending courses in Florida varies by institution, ranging from approximately $295 to $650. For example, Florida Bartending School charges around $295, while Elite Bartending School and Event Staffing offers courses for $650.
Yes, many bartending schools in Florida provide job placement assistance to graduates. For instance, ABC Bartending School offers nationwide job placement services, and Elite Bartending School and Event Staffing connects students with bar owners and event staffing companies.
