However, enrolling in a bartending school and obtaining a certificate before you start applying for bartending jobs in New York City can be useful. This post will show you how to get a bartending certification in New York and begin your journey.
What Is a Bartending License?
A bartending license is an official document or credential some states require to prove that you’ve completed an alcohol education program.
It shows that you’ve received appropriate training and passed the educational program for serving alcohol responsibly and that you understand all legal requirements related to serving liquor, such as minimum age and hours of operation.
While each state has different requirements for licensed Bartenders, in the New York State, it’s not mandatory to hold a license to work as a Bartender.
What Is a Bartending Certification?
A bartending certificate shows that you’ve successfully completed a bartending course in a private school. Like the bartending license, it indicates that you know how to serve alcohol responsibly and how to act in all alcohol-related situations.
While earning a bartending license is an online program that you can complete online for legal purposes, earning a bartending certification usually involves hours of practical training sessions. Some certification courses can be taken online and only regard responsible alcohol service though.
A bartending certification may increase your employability but it’s not a legal requirement for serving alcohol. Since you don’t need a bartending license in New York City, earning a certification is a good way to kick-start your career as a Bartender.
How much is a Bartending Certification in New York City?
The cost of earning your bartending certification in New York depends on the school you choose to enroll in. Those that offer practical bartending training typically charge higher than those that offer online courses.
The price of attending an ATAP-certified schools can vary between $9 and $1,700, as seen in the list below:
- New York EduClasses Alcohol Training – $9
- Serving Alcohol Inc – $12.50
- Learn 2 Serve – $19.99
- ABC Bartending – $595
- European Bartender School – $1,700
The certificate is valid for three years and has to be renewed.
How To Get a Bartending Certification in NYC?
To get a bartending certification in the New York State, you have to enroll in a certified ATAP (Alcohol Training Awareness Program) course.
When researching the certification process in New York, you may come across ATAP and TIPS programs. While it may be confusing at first, it’s easy to differentiate between the two:
- ATAP – A certificate that is specific to the New York State. It proves that you’ve successfully passed a responsible alcohol service program.
- TIPS – A certificate that is accepted nationwide and proves that you’ve successfully passed a responsible alcohol service program. The TIPS certification is ATAP-compliant and accepted in the New York City and the rest of the state.
What Is ATAP Certification?
ATAP, or Alcohol Training Awareness Program, is a certification that proves you’ve completed a state-approved New York alcohol training awareness program. It covers all legal obligations and teaches you the techniques of responsible alcohol service. Some certified ATAP schools, like the ABC Bartending School, include classroom training, while some schools offer quick online courses for earning your ATAP certificate.
Understanding ATAP and TIPS Certifications
While New York State does not mandate a bartending license, obtaining certifications like the Alcohol Training Awareness Program (ATAP) or Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS) can be advantageous. These programs educate Bartenders on responsible alcohol service, legal obligations, and techniques to handle challenging situations. Completing such certifications not only enhances your skills but also makes you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
Which TIPS Certification Course Do I Need?
Since TIPS courses are ATAP-compliant, completing one will earn you the ATAP certification for serving alcohol in New York. There are different TIPS programs for those selling alcohol in open containers for immediate consumption and those working in liquor stores. When pursuing a career as a Bartender, you need the TIPS on-premises course:
New York TIPS On Premise
The New York TIPS On Premise online course is a voluntary program you can apply for to earn your ATAP-compliant certification. It’s accepted in the entire New York State and has a supplemental chapter that is specific to the state.
It teaches you how to serve alcohol responsibly and react in alcohol-related situations. The program covers topics such as recognizing fake IDs, learning behavioral cues and intoxication rate factors to Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), responding in difficult situations without escalation and more.
Taking the course through the TIPS website costs $38. Additionally, TIPS offers an off-premise course which focuses on selling alcohol in liquor stores. There are also specialized courses for those working in gambling facilities and concession services.
What Qualifications Do I Need To Become a Bartender?
You don’t need any formal education to become a Bartender in NYC. However, there are some qualifications that you have to meet for serving alcohol. Although the national drinking age is 21, state laws for serving drinks aren’t the same everywhere. In the New York State, the minimum age to work as a Bartender is 18.
Secondly, you cannot work as a Bartender if you have a felony conviction. Exceptions can be made if you have a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities though. While you don’t need a certificate to work as a Bartender, earning one may increase your chances of getting hired.
Lastly, bar and restaurant owners recognize that responsible alcohol service is the key to maintaining a safe environment and reducing liability risks. That’s why they prefer to hire candidates with a bartending certification. They also look to bring in individuals who possess all the key bartending skills and know how to act in tough alcohol-related situations.
Employers often prefer candidates who have completed responsible alcohol service training, such as ATAP or TIPS certifications. Additionally, possessing strong customer service skills, knowledge of mixology, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations are valuable assets in this role.
Top Bartending Schools in New York City
- New York Bartending School: Offers a comprehensive course with hands-on, behind-the-bar experience. Courses run every Monday, with free 2-hour trial days available. Price: $395.
- ABC Bartending School: Part of a nationwide program, providing courses in NYC with a focus on mixology and the craft of making cocktails. Price: $199.
- American Bartenders School: Located in the center of New York, offering a 40-hour, full-certification bartending course designed to prepare you for a bartending job in NYC. Price varies depending on the program.
Extra Tips for Beginner Bartenders in New York
If you’re looking to start a career as a Bartender you may also want to read up on:
Conclusion
Starting a bartending career in New York City is an exciting opportunity, and while a bartending license isn’t mandatory, certifications like ATAP or TIPS can set you apart. These programs not only enhance your skills but also boost your employability. Whether you choose formal training or hands-on experience, understanding the requirements and taking steps to prepare will help you excel in this dynamic industry.
FAQ
The Alcohol Training Awareness Program (ATAP) is a New York State-specific certification that educates individuals on responsible alcohol service. While not required, obtaining an ATAP certification can be advantageous, as the New York State Liquor Authority may reduce penalties for establishments if their employees, who hold a valid ATAP certification, inadvertently violate alcohol laws.
The Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS) certification is a nationally recognized program that teaches responsible alcohol service. In New York, completing the TIPS On-Premise course grants you an ATAP-compliant certification, making it beneficial for Bartenders seeking comprehensive training applicable both within and beyond the state.
While a bartending license isn’t required, obtaining certifications like ATAP or TIPS can make you a more attractive candidate to employers. These certifications demonstrate your commitment to responsible alcohol service. Additionally, gaining experience through reputable bartending schools in NYC can provide practical skills and networking opportunities to boost your career.
Written by Mitko Terziev
With over eight years of experience in the field, Mitko is a seasoned content specialist who has penned thousands of articles covering a wide array of topics. Before writing, he spent a few months working as a Bartender in one of the best bars in his hometown. In his free time, Mitko enjoys immersing himself in the worlds of gaming and nature.
Reviewed by Stefan Petrov
With over 10 years of experience as a writer and editor, Stefan has worked in the automotive, IT, health and hospitality industries. Familiar with Google Search Console and other SEO tools like Ahrefs and Semrush, Stefan uses his experience to create content that’s visually appealing to the user but also ranks in the SERPs.
