Top Bartending Schools in Delaware

Top Bartending Schools in Delaware: Key Takeaways

• Bartenders in Delaware must complete a state-approved Responsible Server Training program to legally serve alcohol.
• Two approved online providers—Delaware Restaurant Association and eTIPS offer certifications valid for four years.
• Notable bartending schools like Brooklyn Bartending School and Local Bartending School provide comprehensive in-person and online courses teaching essential bartending skills.

Discover the best bartending schools in Delaware and learn about the crucial Responsible Server Training required by the state.

This overview helps aspiring bartenders understand where to get certified and gain professional bartending skills.

Employers looking to hire can benefit from insights on restaurant staff hiring strategies to find the best bartenders and hospitality workers.

1. Understanding Bartending Certification Requirements in Delaware

In Delaware, anyone who serves or sells alcohol or manages those who do must complete a state-approved Responsible Server Training course. This is legally mandatory to ensure responsible alcohol service and compliance with state laws.

The training covers important topics such as verifying customer age, recognizing signs of intoxication, preventing over-service, and understanding the Delaware Liquor Control Act.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old to serve alcoholic beverages and at least 21 years to open, mix, or pour alcohol, aligning with Delaware's regulatory standards.

Employers can consult our age requirement job posting guide to ensure compliance when recruiting bartenders and servers.

Approved Online Responsible Server Training Providers

The Delaware Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement currently approves two major online providers for the Responsible Server Training certification:

• Delaware Restaurant Association: Offers the state-certified Delaware Alcoholic Beverage Server Training course priced at $25. The certification is valid for four years and accessible via computer or mobile devices.
• eTIPS: Provides the Delaware TIPS Alcohol Server Training and Certification course at $15. Like the other provider, the certification lasts four years and is accessible online.

Completing training through one of these providers is required before bartending legally in Delaware.

2. Top Bartending Schools in Delaware

Beyond the mandatory Responsible Server Training, numerous schools offer bartending courses designed to develop professional skills, from mixology to customer service and bar management.

For those interested in career advancement, explore the how to become a Bartender career path guide to understand required skills and qualifications.

Brooklyn Bartending School in Delaware

Brooklyn Bartending School has multiple locations in Wilmington, Seaford, New Castle, Selbyville, and Lewes. They provide diverse learning options catering to different needs and budgets:

• Online courses starting at $79
• Group classes starting at $299
• In-person hands-on lessons starting at $399

Their curriculum includes mastering over 200 drink recipes, understanding bar setup, using bartending tools effectively, and developing excellent customer service techniques. This comprehensive approach prepares students well for a bartending career.

Local Bartending School: Location and Curriculum

Operating in Milton and Lewes, Local Bartending School offers a structured two-week class focused on practical and profitable bartending skills. Students learn:

• Over 200 popular drink recipes
• Proper bar workstation setup
• Techniques aimed at increasing sales and tips

This school also provides online education and specialized staff training tailored for bar owners or managers seeking to enhance their team's capabilities.

Bar owners and managers seeking guidance on staffing and training can gain valuable tips from how to hire a Bartender.

3. Combining Responsible Server Training with Bartending School

While bartending schools equip students with essential service and mixology skills, they do not replace the legal requirement of completing Delaware’s Responsible Server Training.

Aspirants must first complete an approved Responsible Server Training certification to serve alcohol legally. Bartending school training complements this by focusing on customer interaction, drink preparation, and bar management.

Completing both trainings ensures full compliance with state law and provides the competence to excel in a bartending career in Delaware.

4. Important Age Requirements and Regulations for Bartenders in Delaware

The state enforces clear age restrictions for bartenders to promote responsible alcohol service:

• Minimum age of 18 to solicit and serve alcoholic beverages to customers
• Minimum age of 21 to open, mix, and pour alcoholic beverages

Adhering to these age limits is crucial as violations can lead to penalties and jeopardize employment.

Familiarity with the Delaware Liquor Control Act is also essential for bartenders to understand their legal obligations fully.

For further employer guidance, see our tips for hiring servers or bartenders to optimize your recruitment process.

5. Benefits of Attending a Bartending School in Delaware

Enrolling in a bartending school offers many advantages for aspiring professionals:

• Comprehensive Skill Development: Learn everything from drink recipes to bar setup and customer service techniques.
• Flexible Learning Options: Choose from online, group, or in-person training that fits your schedule.
• Increased Employability: Practical training enhances job prospects and readiness to work confidently behind the bar.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with instructors, fellow students, and industry experts.

Improving Sales and Tips Through Training

Many schools, including Local Bartending School, emphasize sales strategies and techniques proven to boost tips, helping bartenders increase their income and client satisfaction.

To deepen knowledge, read about bartending techniques for high-volume bars for expert advice on maximizing performance.

6. How To Choose the Right Bartending School in Delaware

When selecting a bartending school, consider the following factors:

• Curriculum Breadth: Comprehensive coverage of drink recipes, bar management, and customer interaction.
• Training Format: Availability of online, in-person, or hybrid classes to match your learning style.
• Cost: Compare tuition fees and what they include, such as certification or practical kits.
• Reputation and Reviews: Check testimonials or speak with alumni for feedback on teaching quality and job placement support.

Choosing the right program will maximize your return on investment and career readiness.

7. Resources for Bartending Careers in Delaware

Below are helpful official websites and platforms for aspiring bartenders in Delaware:

• Delaware Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement – Information on Responsible Server Training and regulations.
• Delaware Restaurant Association – Offers the state-approved server training course.
• TIPS Certification – Online alcohol server training programs.
• Delaware Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner – Updates on liquor laws and licensing.
• Delaware Liquor Control Act – Official legal text governing alcohol service.

Additional career resources can be found in the Mixologist career overview for related insights on advanced bartending roles.

Top Bartending Schools in Delaware: Conclusion

Aspiring bartenders in Delaware must complete a state-approved Responsible Server Training course to meet legal requirements.

Complementary training from reputable bartending schools like Brooklyn Bartending School and Local Bartending School prepares candidates with extensive practical skills and service knowledge.

Combining these certifications with adherence to age and legal regulations positions individuals for success in Delaware’s bartending industry.

Employers seeking to retain talented bartending staff should explore effective strategies to reduce employee turnover and improve retention.