Hospitality & Food

How to become a Server

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

1–2 weeks

Typical pay

$28k–$48k

Starting from

No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   1–7 days

   Start anywhere that will take you

   Diners and casual chains hire without experience. Busser or host if serving is full.

   Typical titles at this level

   • Server
   • Busser
   • Host
2. 2

   1–3 days

   Get food handler and alcohol certification

   Alcohol service training is required in most states to serve drinks.

   ◆ State food handler and alcohol server permits

   Course that covers thisFood Safety and Hygiene Level 2Udemy · around $19.99 →
3. 3

   1–3 months

   Learn the menu and the floor

   Sections, timing and upselling without being irritating.

4. 4

   6–24 months

   Move to a higher-check restaurant

   Said plainly: your income is the check average. Fine dining is where servers earn well.

5. ✓

   Destination

   Server

   Browse jobs now →

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