How To Become a Bartender in Oklahoma

Some of the best connections people make are with their bartenders. For many businesses, the bartender is the first person that a customer interacts with. This position involves lots of responsibilities, but it is also very rewarding for people who exhibit the skills that make a valuable bartender.

States have specific requirements when it comes to serving alcohol legally. If you want to start your career as a bartender in Oklahoma, this is the article for you. We’ll break down Oklahoma State bartending requirements, how to become a bartender, average salaries, and more.  

What Are the Oklahoma Bartending Requirements?

Without any background in the industry, you may believe that being a bartender is an easy job. However, a bartender's job responsibilities include far more management than you might imagine. Bartenders manage and serve drinks, yes, but they also handle customer payments, ensure age checks, and establish rapport with customers. All the while, they are also managing tabs and processing payments. That is why there are strict bartending requirements in every US state.

Before you can start bartending, you will come across Oklahoma’s ABLE Commission. ABLE stands for Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE). The ABLE-approved training program covers a variety of topics, including protecting yourself and your business from liability, recognizing the influence of alcohol on others, preventing extreme intoxication, avoiding and dealing with disruptions, and identifying fake identification documents.

To become a bartender in Oklahoma, you must be 21 years old, complete an ABLE-approved training program, apply for an ABLE license through the Oklahoma ABLE Commission's system, and pay a state fee.

The training course is offered both in-person and online.

Do You Need a Bartending License in Oklahoma?

Yes, most states, Oklahoma included, have a mandate that requires a bartender’s license to serve alcohol legally. This is particularly true if you want to work in an establishment where alcohol sales are the main source of income, such as a bar or pub. Requirements differ based on the state or city in which you live. Understanding your unique requirements requires consulting state licensing boards and local rules.

It is mandatory for bartenders in Oklahoma to finish an ABLE-approved training program. Prospective bartenders must also submit a certificate of completion to the ABLE Commission electronically, in person, or by mail.

Getting a bartender's license requires finishing a course that includes subjects like knowing liquor regulations, spotting drunk patrons, and providing responsible alcohol service. These courses will typically include a final exam you have to pass before you get your certificate. Pricing will vary depending on the course.

How To Get a Bartending License in Oklahoma

We have discussed the state requirements for obtaining a bartender license in Oklahoma, but we will go over each one in detail here.

1. Pass an ABLE-approved Alcohol Training Course

You have to pass a course, either online or in person, that is approved by the Oklahoma ABLE Commission. 360training offers an online Oklahoma Alcohol Server License course, which can be found here.  

2. Create an Official ABLE Account

Next, you'll need to register for an online account on the Oklahoma ABLE Commission website to apply for a new license or renew a current one.

3. Get a Bartending License

In Oklahoma, a bartender license is necessary to serve alcohol legally. Fill out the Alcohol Beverage Employee Application on the ABLE website. Be prepared for a processing fee if the bartending license is not covered by the application cost.

4. Submit All Necessary Documents

Oklahoma State requires you to submit supporting documentation throughout the application process. The ABLE Commission's website has the list of necessary documents. This process will verify your identity and suitability for a bartending license. 

5. Print Your License

After your application is accepted, you will receive an email with your license. Make sure to print it off or give it to your employer. At 360training, your license is instantly downloadable.

What Is the Average Bartender Salary in Oklahoma?

How bartenders make money differs slightly from that of most people. Bartenders may appear to earn little on paper, but this is because their base pay and tips are divided.

The most recent data from ZipRecruiter shows that the average bartender pay in Oklahoma is $15 per hour, or $30,548 annually. That's higher than the national average. The median wage for a bartender in the United States as of May 2022 is $14.12 per hour, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Top earners in Oklahoma can be making as much as $47,090 annually. Tulsa, Edmond, and Oklahoma City are the cities with higher bartender salaries.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Bartender

Like any other job, there are some pros and cons to becoming a bartender in Oklahoma. Before you decide to jump in, let’s take a look at some of them up close.

Pros

• Earning Potential: Tips can significantly boost income, especially in busy establishments.
• Flexibility: Many bartending jobs offer flexible schedules, which can be great for those with other commitments.
• Social Interaction: You'll constantly interact with people, developing strong social and communication skills.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities exist to become bar managers, mixologists, or even open your own bar.

Cons

• Inconsistent Income: Tip income can fluctuate greatly, making it difficult to budget reliably.
• Late Nights & Weekends: Many bartending shifts fall on evenings and weekends, which can impact your social life and personal time.
• Dealing with Intoxicated Customers: You'll encounter challenging customers, including those who are intoxicated or disruptive.
• Physical Demands: Standing for long periods and lifting heavy items can be physically demanding.

It’s important to weigh both the good and the bad before starting any career. Bartending is no different. Keep this in mind before you start applying for jobs!

How Can I Get My Bartending License?

If you are looking to become a bartender in Oklahoma, then 360training is a great option for you. Online courses open up a whole world of possibilities where you can further your career at your own pace.

Set your schedule and ensure that you stay up-to-date with all the current laws and regulations. There is no need to worry, our course has been approved by the Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) Commission. In Oklahoma, you have to complete a training course, so why not start with 360training? Check out our Oklahoma Alcohol Server License online course!