Want to work behind the bar in Colorado? You’re in luck! The state has a thriving nightlife scene, offering plenty of opportunities for aspiring bartenders. But before you start slinging drinks, you need to know the legal requirements. In Colorado, the minimum age to work as a bartender is 21 years old.
Why Is There an Age Limit for Bartending?
The reason for the age restriction is pretty straightforward. Colorado laws are designed to ensure responsible service of alcohol and to protect minors from the dangers of underage drinking. By requiring bartenders to be 21 or older, the state aims to ensure that:
- Bartenders are legally allowed to consume alcohol: This helps prevent situations where bartenders might be tempted to drink on the job, compromising their judgment and safety.
- Bartenders have a better understanding of alcohol’s effects: Having experience with alcohol themselves allows bartenders to recognize signs of intoxication and prevent over-serving patrons.
- Bartenders are mature enough to handle the responsibilities of the job: Bartending involves handling money, interacting with customers, and making decisions about serving alcohol – responsibilities that require a certain level of maturity and judgment.
What About Serving Alcohol in Other Roles?
It’s important to note that the age restriction applies specifically to bartending, which typically involves:
- Pouring and serving alcoholic beverages directly to customers.
- Taking orders, preparing drinks, and mixing cocktails.
- Handling cash and managing inventory.
However, there are other roles in the hospitality industry where you might serve alcohol, but you don’t need to be 21:
- Servers: Servers in Colorado can serve alcohol to customers even if they are under 21, as long as they are supervised by a certified bartender who is 21 or older.
- Busboys/Busgirls: These roles involve clearing tables and serving food, which may include alcoholic beverages.
- Hosts/Hostesses: These roles involve greeting customers and seating them, which may involve handling drinks or taking orders, but typically don’t require direct interaction with alcohol.
What if I’m Under 21 and Want to Work in a Bar?
If you’re under 21 and eager to get into the bar industry, there are still options for you:
- Barback: A barback assists the bartender with tasks like restocking supplies, cleaning glassware, and preparing garnishes. This role doesn’t involve serving alcohol directly, but it’s a great way to gain experience in a bar environment and learn the ropes before you can legally serve alcohol.
- Server: As mentioned earlier, you can work as a server in Colorado and serve alcohol, but only under the supervision of a certified bartender who is 21 or older.
The Benefits of Working in a Bar
Bartending is a great way to make money, develop your skills, and meet new people. Some of the benefits include:
- Flexible hours: Bars are open late, making it easier to find a schedule that fits your lifestyle.
- Tip-based income: Good bartenders can earn a substantial income from tips.
- Social interaction: You’ll be constantly interacting with customers, building relationships, and learning about different people.
- Learn valuable skills: Bartending teaches you customer service, communication, time management, and multitasking.
Tips for Aspiring Bartenders
If you’re serious about becoming a bartender, here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Get certified: Colorado requires bartenders to be certified in alcohol service and responsibility training. You can find a certified course online or at a local training facility.
- Practice your drink-making skills: Learn how to make classic cocktails and get comfortable with the tools and techniques of bartending.
- Develop your customer service skills: Practice being friendly, attentive, and helpful to customers.
- Be prepared to work hard: Bartending can be physically demanding, especially during busy hours.
- Be patient and persistent: It may take time to find the right job or build a steady clientele.
FAQ
What are the requirements for bartending certification in Colorado?
Colorado requires bartenders to complete a certified alcohol service and responsibility training course. These courses typically cover topics like:
- Laws and regulations related to alcohol service
- Alcohol awareness and effects
- Identifying signs of intoxication
- Responsible serving practices
- How to prevent underage drinking
How do I find a bartending job in Colorado?
There are several ways to find a bartending job in Colorado:
- Online job boards: Sites like Indeed, Monster, and Craigslist often list bar and restaurant jobs.
- Networking: Talk to friends, family, and acquaintances who work in the hospitality industry to see if they know of any open positions.
- Walk-in applications: Visit bars and restaurants that you’re interested in working at and drop off your resume.
How much can I earn as a bartender in Colorado?
The average hourly wage for bartenders in Colorado is around $12-15 per hour, but tips can significantly increase your earnings.
What are some popular bar areas in Colorado?
Some of the most popular bar areas in Colorado include:
- Denver: Larimer Square, LoDo, and the Highlands are known for their vibrant nightlife scenes.
- Boulder: Pearl Street Mall is a popular spot for bars and restaurants.
- Fort Collins: Old Town Fort Collins is home to a variety of bars and breweries.
- Aspen: A high-end ski resort with a lively nightlife scene.
What are some of the best bars in Colorado to work at?
This is a subjective question, as the best bar to work at depends on your individual preferences. Some factors to consider include:
- Location: Do you want to work in a busy downtown area or a more relaxed neighborhood?
- Type of bar: Do you prefer a high-end cocktail bar, a casual pub, or a sports bar?
- Atmosphere: Do you want to work in a high-energy environment or a more laid-back setting?
Remember, getting your start in bartending in Colorado is possible, but it takes dedication, hard work, and the right certifications. You can also consider networking and expanding your circle to build connections and get recommendations.
Are you ready to embark on your bartending journey in Colorado?
Disclaimer:
This information is intended to be informative and should not be considered legal advice. It is always best to check with the Colorado Department of Revenue for the most up-to-date information and regulations regarding bartending requirements and alcohol service.
