Mixology
·4 min read
One of the most common questions we get from prospective students is about age requirements for bartending. The answer depends entirely on where you plan to work, because DC, Maryland, and Virginia each have their own rules - and in Maryland, it varies by county.
In Washington, DC and Virginia, you must be 21 to bartend. Maryland is more complicated. Baltimore County requires you to be 21. Howard County allows 18-year-olds to bartend in restaurants but requires you to be 21 for taverns. Charles County and St. Mary's County both require 21. However, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Frederick County, and Washington County all allow bartending at 18.
The variation in Maryland means that younger students still have real options, particularly in the suburbs where many restaurants and event venues are located. At PBS, we provide placement assistance to graduates of all ages, helping them navigate the job search based on their legal eligibility and goals. Whether you are 18 and looking for weekend work or picking up a new skill later in life, the training is the same - and the opportunities are there.
Thinking about bartending?
Book a tour of our Arlington campus and see the training environment for yourself.
