If you’ve ever been intrigued by the vibrant world of bartending and dream of crafting cocktails in Delaware’s thriving bar scene, acquiring a Delaware bartending license is your key to unlocking this exciting career.
Do You Need a Bartending Certificate in Delaware?
Yes, to serve alcohol legally in Delaware, you must have completed Responsible Server Training approved by the State of Delaware. You can find a list of approved courses on Delaware’s Department of Safety and Homeland Security here.
Under Delaware law, individuals serving or selling alcohol or those managing such employees must complete a State-approved Responsible Server Training. This mandatory program, established by the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement, aims to impart the knowledge necessary to serve and sell alcoholic beverages responsibly that aligns with the rules of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner and Delaware’s state laws.
What does Responsible Server Training cover?
The training covers various topics, including alcohol’s effects on how the body handles alcohol itself, verifying IDs, identifying signs of intoxication, preventing over-service, and understanding the Delaware Liquor Control Act.
For the convenience of those in Delaware’s service industry, this Responsible Server Training program is available online.
The Responsible Server Training program can be accessed in two handy formats – digitally via online modules or in-person sessions.
- The issued card remains valid for four years.
- Typically, classes span approximately 2.5 hours, though this may vary based on the number of attending students.
- Upon completion of the session, a 40-question, multiple-choice exam is administered. Once you pass this test, you are awarded your card.
For online training, as of 2023, there are two approved online trainers:
Both certifications are valid for four years from the date of issue.
- The Delaware Restaurant Association offers online training courses for $25.
- eTIPS offers a Delaware TIPS Alcohol Server Training and Certification course for $40.
Delaware TIPS training is available from 360Training as well.
What are the Bartending License Requirements for Delaware?
Besides taking your first responsible server training course, the only other requirement is being of age to serve alcohol. As of 2023, to work as a bartender in Delaware, you must be at least 21, while you serve alcohol in a restaurant at 18.
To take the training, you must provide a state driver’s license or identification card with a photo, an active Military ID with an image, a Passport or a US passport.
What Is the Job Market Like for Bartenders in Delaware?
With its buzzing nightlife and bustling bar culture, Delaware offers many opportunities for licensed bartenders. However, to serve alcohol in this state legally, it’s crucial to understand what a Delaware bartending license entails and the steps needed to acquire one.
How Much Money Do Bartenders Make in Delaware?
According to websites like Indeed and Intuit, the average base salary for a bartender in Delaware is $15.04 or $26,000 per year as of 2023, according to Intuit Mint’s data based on tax returns.
What Cities Are Good Places for Bartending Work in Delaware?
Wilmington: As the largest city in Delaware, Wilmington offers a vibrant nightlife and a variety of upscale bars and restaurants.
Rehoboth Beach: Known for its lively beach scene, this town is a popular tourist destination, especially during summer. Establishments in this area often have a high demand for bartenders and alcohol servers during the tourist season.
Dover: As the capital city, Dover consistently demands bartenders in its restaurants and bars. The Dover International Speedway and Dover Downs Hotel & Casino can also provide seasonal opportunities.
Newark: Home to the University of Delaware, Newark has a college-town vibe with numerous bars and pubs that cater to students and faculty, providing a steady demand for bartenders. This might be a place to work as a student bartender.
Delaware Bartending FAQ
Here are some questions people ask about becoming a bartender in Delaware.
Do you need a license to be a bartender in Delaware?
Yes, you need to have completed state-approved Responsible Server Training. Upon completion, you will be issued a card confirming you’ve completed the responsible alcohol service training course.
TIPS training is also accepted and is available online from 360Training.
How old do you have to be to bartend in Delaware?
To sell alcohol or bartend in Delaware, you must be at least 21 and 18 to serve alcohol, according to the APIS.
How long is the responsive server training course?
It is an online course that’s approximately two and a half hours and is followed by a multiple-choice test.
How long is the Responsible Server Training card good for?
The Responsible Server Training card is good for four years and must be renewed after.
Resources
Here are some resources that might help get your Delaware alcohol seller-server safety training.
- Delaware.gov Responsible Server Training
- Delaware Alcohol Seller-Server Training & Certification
- Delaware Restaurant Association
Conclusion
For more information or to start your application process, visit the Delaware Licensing Board’s website. Your journey to becoming a Delaware bartender starts today. Embrace the process, and remember – every great bartender started with their first pour!
If you’re interested in bartending in other American states, we’ve written an article about bartending requirements across America here.
