In the state of Florida, there are no laws that require a server or bartender to be licensed in order to sell alcohol. Unlike some states, training is not mandatory.
Keep in mind, however, that many employers and bar owners will require employees to partake in a bartending training course regardless of state law. The reason for this is simple: If a restaurant or bar has a legal issue regarding the service of alcohol, having their employees bartending certified by reduce their liability.
If you decide to become certified for any reason, we suggest the training provided by Serving Alcohol. The courses at Serving Alcohol are reliable, easy, and quick. And best of all, we have worked with the team to provide a special discount to Bartending License Help readers. You can check it out here.
Furthermore, each FL county has the authority to decide what, if any serving alcohol training is required. This is why it’s always good to double check with your local Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (ABT) District Office.
But don’t sweat it too much – most counties follow the state mandate. Meaning, most counties in Florida do NOT require bartending training either.
This post was updated on August 21, 2023.
Minimum Age To Serve Alcoholic Beverages In Florida:
In Florida, the minimum age to serve alcohol is 18 years old. As long as you’re 18, you can pour drinks, serve alcohol, and work behind a bar. Pretty straight forward here.
Bartender Qualifications and Restrictions:
Florida statute 562.13 restricts employment as a bartender or manager in an establishment that serves alcohol:
- A person convicted of any Florida beverage law in the past 5 years
- A person who has been convicted in the past 5 years of “of soliciting for prostitution, pandering, letting premises for prostitution, keeping a disorderly place, or any felony violation of chapter 893 or the controlled substances act of any other state or the Federal Government”
- A person who has had any felony violation in Florida or any other state in the USA
Other Requirements That May Be Helpful:
- Driver’s License or Passport
- Good Communication Skills
- Non-slip bartending shoes
- Knowledge of basic drink recipes
For more Information, please contact your Local City Clerk office.