Colorado is known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling bartending scene. Before you jump into the bartending industry in Colorado, it’s important to know the legal age requirements to be a bartender. If you’re under 21 years old, you may be wondering if it’s possible to work as a bartender in Colorado.
The minimum age to serve alcohol and work as a bartender in Colorado is 18 years old. However, there are still a few restrictions and guidelines to follow. It’s essential to understand these laws before pursuing a career in the bartending industry at a young age. In this article, we will explore the legal requirements for bartending in Colorado and provide tips for aspiring young bartenders.
Minimum Age Requirements for Bartenders in Colorado
In Colorado, the minimum age requirement for bartenders is 21 years. The State of Colorado allows individuals who are 18 years old to serve alcohol in a restaurant if they are under the direct supervision of a person who is at least 21 years of age and has been a bartender for at least one year. However, they cannot serve alcohol in a bar or any establishment that only serves alcohol.
The primary reason behind the minimum age requirement for bartenders is the need for responsibility and maturity while serving alcohol. It is also essential that bartenders understand the legal responsibilities and consequences associated with serving alcohol. Therefore, individuals who aspire to work as a bartender in Colorado must be at least 21 years old, possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and be well-versed with the state’s regulations and laws concerning alcohol sales and service.
Legal Aspects of Being a Bartender Under 21 in Colorado
As per Colorado state law, the legal drinking age is 21. Therefore, it is not legal to consume alcohol or serve it to others under the age of 21. However, Colorado allows employment of individuals who are 18 years of age or older to work as bartenders. They can work as long as they do not consume alcohol while on the job and are not responsible for serving alcohol to anyone under the age of 21.
It is important to note that the responsibility for serving alcohol to a minor ultimately falls on the bartender, rather than the establishment they are working in. Bartenders can face legal consequences for serving alcohol to minors or overserving adults. Therefore, it is crucial for bartenders to be well-versed in the state’s alcohol laws and follow them closely to avoid any legal issues.
Training and Certification for Bartenders in Colorado
To work as a bartender in Colorado, it is essential to undergo the required training and certification. The state obligates all bartenders serving alcohol to have a Responsible Vendor Training certification. This certification is provided by the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division and is required by the law for bartenders and servers at any establishment that serve drinks, including beer and cocktails.
The certification program aims to educate alcohol servers about serving drinks responsibly, identifying and preventing underage drinking, managing potential problems, and clarifying the state’s liquor laws and regulations. The training program is attended either in-person or online and can take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the training provider. After successfully completing the course, bartenders must carry their certification card while on duty. It’s important to note that the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division strictly monitors establishments to ensure their staff has the appropriate certification, and failure to comply can result in hefty fines or license suspension.
Opportunities for Employment as a Bartender Under 21 in Colorado
While it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to serve alcohol in Colorado, there are still opportunities for young adults to have employment in the service industry. Some establishments may hire individuals under 21 as bussers, servers, or hosts/hostesses. These positions can offer valuable experience and opportunities for growth and advancement within the industry.
Another option for young adults who are interested in bartending is to pursue education and training in mixology. While they may not be able to work behind the bar until they reach the legal drinking age, they can gain knowledge and skills that will make them more marketable to potential employers in the future. Many bartending schools offer courses in mixology, drink preparation, and bar management that can be taken by individuals of any age. By investing in their education and building experience in other areas of the service industry, young adults can prepare themselves for a successful career in bartending when they come of age.
Challenges Faced by Underage Bartenders in Colorado
Underage bartenders in Colorado face several challenges due to their age. Firstly, they are often not trusted by customers who prefer to be served by someone older. This leads to a lack of tips and often, the customers may even report them to management for being underage.
Further, underage bartenders in Colorado may also face challenges when it comes to handling alcohol. Since they are not allowed to consume it legally, they may not be aware of the effects of mixing different drinks, which can lead to unsafe situations for the patrons they serve. Additionally, they may not be able to handle difficult customers who have had too much to drink, leading to confrontations and even violence. Overall, these challenges make it difficult for underage bartenders to succeed in a highly demanding industry, despite their willingness to work hard and learn.
Tips for Succeeding as a Bartender in Colorado Under 21
Bartending is not an easy job, but it can be a rewarding one. If you are under 21 and working as a bartender in Colorado, there are a few tips that can help you succeed in this fast-paced industry. Firstly, it is important to have a friendly and outgoing personality. Being able to make customers feel welcome and comfortable is key to being a successful bartender.
Secondly, knowledge and skills are important. You should be familiar with different types of drinks and be able to mix them accurately and efficiently. Additionally, you should be able to handle cash and use a point-of-sale system. Staying organized and keeping track of orders is also crucial. Overall, if you are committed to providing excellent service, you can thrive as a bartender in Colorado, even if you are under 21. So, put in the effort, keep a positive attitude, and keep learning, and you will succeed.
Future Prospects for Underage Bartenders in the Colorado Hospitality Industry
The future prospects for underage bartenders in the Colorado hospitality industry are not very promising. While it is not illegal for 18-year-olds to serve alcohol in Colorado, most bars and restaurants prefer to hire employees who are at least 21 years old. This is because servers must also be responsible for checking identification and preventing underage drinking, which can be a challenging task for young employees.
Furthermore, many establishments require prior experience in the hospitality industry, which is difficult for young individuals to obtain. However, there are opportunities for 18+ individuals to work in other positions in the industry, such as bussers, food runners, and hosts. These positions can provide valuable experience and knowledge of the industry, which can lead to future career opportunities. Ultimately, while underage bartenders may face limited options in Colorado’s hospitality industry, there are still opportunities available for those willing to gain experience in other roles.
Conclusion
Being a bartender can be an attractive option for students who are just starting their career, or for those who want to earn some extra income. However, in Colorado, the age limit for becoming a bartender can be quite high, which can be a deterrence for some. While it is true that individuals need to be at least 21 years of age to serve alcohol in bars and restaurants, there are still many other roles young adults can take on in the food and beverage industry.
Young adults can still work in restaurants and bars as servers, hosts, bussers, and kitchen staff. These roles provide an opportunity to learn about the industry, gain customer service skills, and build relationships with colleagues that can open doors for future career opportunities. It is important to remember that the age restrictions are in place for a reason, to ensure the safety and well-being of both the employees and the patrons. Therefore, it is important to comply with the laws and regulations in place and focus on gaining valuable experience and skills that will help in building a long and fruitful career.