How do I become a bartender?

How do I become a Bartender in Gainesville, FL?

• I'm about to turn 20, so I am old enough to become a Bartender. I'd like to be a Bartender so that I can have a fun and exciting job that pays pretty decently while I'm going through college (It's very expensive to live on your own here). I've heard that going to a Bartending school is necessary, and I have also heard that it is a total scam... which is it? What do I have to do, exactly, to become a Bartender? Do I need a permit? If I do, where do I get it? Do I need a book? If I do, where do I get it? Etc... All of your answers are greatly appreciated! :-D

• Answer:

  Bartending school is not a scam. I went to bartending school and learned over 250 different cocktails and I can make 30 drinks in less than 10 minutes, all from memory. Bartending school is actually a wise investment of time and money, you will learn so much. plus it looks good on a Resume. If you do decide to go to bartending school, be sure to take a flair class and a TIPS certification class. A person with a bartending school education can make $150-200 a night compared to $50 a night for a person without one.