Top Bartending Schools in Iowa

Top Bartending Schools in Iowa: Key Takeaways

• Several bartending schools in Iowa offer in-person and online training programs to prepare aspiring bartenders with practical skills and certification.
• Iowa does not require state-mandated bartender licensing, but certification is valued by employers for responsible alcohol service.
• Courses include comprehensive topics such as cocktail recipes, bar operations, responsible alcohol service, and legal compliance.

Looking to start a bartending career in Iowa? Discover top bartending schools that provide essential training and certification.

This guide highlights key programs to help you gain skills, credibility, and employment opportunities.

1. Overview of Bartending Training in Iowa

Although Iowa does not mandate bartenders to hold a specific state license, many employers strongly prefer or require certifications demonstrating proficiency in bartending and responsible alcohol service.

Certification helps reduce liability for bar owners and ensures employees understand the laws and best practices for selling and serving alcohol.

Both in-person and online bartending schools provide comprehensive training programs tailored to Iowa’s requirements.

Bar owners can benefit from our guide to hire a bartender for their establishments.

2. In-Person Bartending Schools in Iowa

Local Bartending School (LBS)

Operating since 2011, Local Bartending School offers personalized lessons across multiple Iowa locations including Des Moines, Havelock, and Rolfe.

The curriculum covers over 200 drink recipes, bar setup, bartending tools, and advanced techniques to boost sales and maximize tips.

The school provides flexible schedules, including online education options and specialized flair bartending courses.

LBS also offers staff training services for bar owners and managers.

Employers may find valuable insights in bartending techniques for high volume bars to improve their bar operations.

Brooklyn Bartending School (BBS)

Serving cities such as Cedar Rapids and Waterloo, Brooklyn Bartending School emphasizes hands-on learning where students craft classic cocktails and learn bar operations.

BBS provides job placement assistance and internship programs to support career growth.

The program offers flexible course durations, including one-week and two-week intensive options.

3. Online Bartending Certification Options in Iowa

ABC Mixology

ABC Mixology offers a comprehensive online bartending course tailored for Iowa residents with step-by-step video tutorials and lifetime access to materials.

Students receive a bartending certificate upon course completion, and the program includes a food handler’s card.

A 50% tuition discount is available with a special coupon code.

Discover ways to take free online bartending courses for additional training.

Always Food Safe

This Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division-approved self-paced online training focuses on responsible alcohol service, covering awareness, seller/server duties, carding procedures, intervention techniques, and Iowa laws.

The course requires a minimum 70% score on the final exam and awards a three-year certification valid statewide.

It can be accessed on any device and offers unlimited exam retakes for learners.

Serving Alcohol

Serving Alcohol provides an online certification for individuals to sell and serve alcohol responsibly in Iowa.

The mobile-friendly program covers alcohol awareness, intervention, legal responsibilities, and dramshop laws.

Upon completion, participants receive a printable certificate valid for three years, recognized for both on-premise and off-premise alcohol establishments.

4. Benefits of Bartending Certification in Iowa

Even though Iowa does not require mandated licensing, certification offers significant advantages to aspiring and current bartenders:

• Employability: Certified bartenders are often preferred by employers as they ensure legal and responsible alcohol service.
• Skill Development: Training covers cocktail crafting, bar management, customer interaction, and sales techniques.
• Legal Compliance: Certifications educate bartenders on Iowa’s alcohol laws, dramshop liability, and age verification.
• Career Advancement: Job placement assistance and internship programs offered by bartending schools can jumpstart a career.

For bartenders aiming to improve their interview skills, see our Bartender interview questions guide.

5. How To Choose the Right Bartending School in Iowa

When selecting a bartending school, consider the following factors:

• Course Format: Decide between in-person, online, or hybrid programs based on your schedule and learning preferences.
• Curriculum: Look for comprehensive coverage of drink recipes, bar operations, and legal responsibilities.
• Certification: Ensure the course provides recognition valid in Iowa and includes responsible alcohol service training.
• Job Assistance: Schools offering internships or placement support can improve employment outcomes.
• Reviews and Experience: Check the school’s reputation, instructor expertise, and student testimonials.

Hiring a Kitchen Manager can also be valuable for bar owners looking to optimize their back-of-house operations.

6. Additional Resources for Bartenders in Iowa

• Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division: Official guidelines and regulatory information on alcohol sales and service.
• Iowa Program for Alcohol Compliance Training (I-PACT): State-approved training programs for responsible alcohol service.
• Iowa Department of Public Health: Resources on health and safety related to alcohol consumption.
• Iowa Workforce Development: Employment resources and job listings in hospitality.
• Iowa Restaurant Association: Industry support, training, and advocacy for food and beverage professionals.

Top Bartending Schools in Iowa: Conclusion

Iowa bartenders seeking to build a strong foundation and stand out in the hospitality industry should consider certification through reputable schools like Local Bartending School, Brooklyn Bartending School, or online programs such as ABC Mixology.

These schools offer flexible training options, skill development, and certification to ensure responsible alcohol service and compliance with Iowa laws.

Armed with professional knowledge and credentials, bartenders can enhance their employability and career prospects in Iowa's vibrant hospitality sector.

Explore career information and job descriptions for bartenders to further your career: Bartender Job Description.