Colorado Server & Bartender Age, Drinking Age, and More Alcohol Laws
You probably heard that, in Colorado, the minimum age to serve or bartend alcohol is 18 years old, but did you know that anyone under 21 must work under the supervision of a staff member who is at least 21? And that the legal drinking age remains 21? This guide explains Colorado’s alcohol laws for servers and bartenders, age restrictions, training requirements, and tips for starting your career.
Aug 27
Legal Age to Bartend or Serve Alcohol in Colorado
- Minimum age to serve or bartend alcohol = 18
- If you are under 21, you must work under the supervision of someone 21+
- You cannot serve at 17 under any circumstance
- The legal drinking age is 21
Colorado Bartending Age FAQs
- Can you serve alcohol at 18 in Colorado?
Yes, but only with supervision if you’re under 21. - Can you bartend at 18 in Colorado?
Yes, as long as a 21+ staff member is supervising. - Can you serve alcohol at 17 in Colorado?
No. You must be at least 18. - What is the drinking age in Colorado?
The drinking age is 21.
Why There is an Age Limit
The legal age limit for bartending in Colorado serves several purposes. It helps to ensure the responsible service of alcohol. By setting the age requirement at 18, the state aims to prevent individuals who are too young from having access to and being responsible for serving alcoholic beverages.
The age requirement also helps establishments comply with legal regulations and avoid potential legal issues. By employing bartenders who meet the minimum age requirement (with an older colleague's supervision), establishments can demonstrate their commitment to following the law and maintaining a safe and responsible environment for their patrons.
Requirements to Become a Bartender in Colorado
Becoming a bartender in Colorado requires meeting certain requirements and qualifications. These requirements encompass both educational and personal aspects, ensuring that individuals have the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the profession. In this section, we will explore the various requirements to become a server or bartender in Colorado.
Alcohol Training in Colorado
Colorado doesn’t issue bartending licenses, but employers often require or prefer alcohol training. This covers ID checking, recognizing intoxication, and liability laws.
Skills and Personal Qualities Needed
- Checking IDs Correctly
Properly verifying customer age is one of the most important duties in alcohol service. Staff should always ask for identification from anyone who appears under 30 and be familiar with how to spot fake IDs—such as mismatched photos, altered fonts, or expired documents. Consistency is key: checking every questionable ID shows responsibility and protects both the employee and the business from legal penalties. - Recognizing Signs of Intoxication
Servers and bartenders must learn how to read body language and behavior. Slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, loss of coordination, or sudden mood changes are red flags that someone may be intoxicated. Spotting these early allows staff to step in before a situation escalates, ensuring customer safety and compliance with the law. - Handling Refusals Responsibly
Refusing service can feel uncomfortable, but it’s a legal duty. Staff should remain calm, professional, and respectful when cutting someone off or declining to serve underage or intoxicated customers. Offering alternatives such as water, food, or arranging safe transportation helps keep the interaction positive while reducing risks to the business. - Customer Service Basics
Beyond compliance, great hospitality matters. Bartenders and servers should greet customers warmly, listen attentively to orders, and create an enjoyable environment. Balancing friendliness with responsibility builds trust with patrons, encourages repeat business, and reinforces the establishment’s reputation for safe, customer-first service.
Steps to Become a Server or Bartender in Colorado
Starting a career in alcohol service in Colorado looks a little different depending on your age. The state allows individuals 18 and older to serve alcohol, but anyone between 18 and 20 must work under the supervision of a manager or supervisor who is at least 21. Full bartending duties without direct supervision generally begin at 21. With that in mind, here are the key steps:
- Meet the Minimum Age Requirement
You must be at least 18 to serve alcohol in Colorado. If you are 18–20, you can work as a server or bartender only with a 21+ supervisor present. - Complete Responsible Alcohol Service Training
While not state-mandated for all positions, most employers require certification in responsible alcohol service. Training covers checking IDs, spotting intoxication, handling refusals, and liability basics. Completing this training makes you more competitive and demonstrates professionalism. - Build Experience in Entry-Level Roles
Many people begin as hosts, servers, or barbacks. These roles let you learn the flow of a bar or restaurant and prepare for more responsibility behind the bar. - Practice Customer Service and Mixology Skills
Whether you’re serving drinks to a table or mixing cocktails at the bar, strong customer service, communication, and time management skills are essential. Formal bartending school is optional, but hands-on learning is valuable. - Apply for Server or Bartender Jobs
Create a resume highlighting training, customer service experience, and reliability. Network with local bars and restaurants, apply online, and visit establishments in person to inquire about openings. - Advance Your Career Over Time
With experience and strong performance, you can move into head bartender, bar manager, or even beverage director roles. Additional training in craft cocktails or wine service can help you stand out.
Obtaining the Necessary Training
- Research Training Programs: Start by researching and selecting a reputable program or course that aligns with your career goals. Look for programs that offer state-specific training in and responsible alcohol service.
- Enroll in a Server or Bartending Course: Once you have identified a suitable program, enroll in the course. Attend classes or complete online modules to gain the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required in the field.
Finding Job Opportunities
- Update Your Resume: Craft a well-written resume that highlights your bartending skills, relevant experience, and any certifications or training you have obtained. Tailor your resume to showcase your suitability for the bartending position you are seeking.
- Network and Seek Referrals: Tap into your network and seek referrals from friends, family, or industry professionals. Attend industry events, join bartending associations, and connect with individuals who can help you discover job opportunities.
- Search Online Job Boards: Utilize online job boards and platforms specific to the hospitality industry to search for bartending positions. Regularly check for job postings, submit your resume, and follow up on any leads.
- Visit Local Establishments: Take the initiative to visit local bars, restaurants, hotels, and other establishments in your area. Inquire about potential job openings and express your interest in bartending positions. Leave your resume and contact information with the establishment's management or hiring personnel.
Climbing the Career Ladder
- Start as a Barback or Server: In many cases, aspiring bartenders start their careers as barbacks or servers before transitioning into bartending roles. Consider gaining experience in these positions to familiarize yourself with the bar environment, learn from experienced bartenders, and demonstrate your dedication and work ethic.
- Volunteer or Intern: If opportunities arise, consider volunteering or interning at bars or establishments to gain practical experience and expand your network. This can be an excellent way to learn from seasoned professionals and showcase your skills and potential.
- Seek Advanced Training: As you gain experience, consider pursuing advanced training in specialized areas of bartending. This can include courses on craft cocktails, wine knowledge, or advanced mixology techniques. Continuously improving your skills and knowledge will make you a more competitive candidate for higher-level bartending positions.
Colorado Alcohol Laws for the Awareness of Bar Staff
- Legal Drinking Age = 21
No one under 21 can legally purchase or consume alcohol in Colorado. Bartenders must always verify age before serving, even if the customer “looks old enough.” - Minimum Serving Age = 18 (with supervision if under 21)
Individuals 18–20 may serve or bartend only when supervised by someone 21+ (such as a manager or shift lead). At 21 and older, employees can bartend or serve without supervision. - Hours of Service = 7:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Alcohol may only be sold or served during these hours. Serving after 2:00 AM can lead to fines, suspension, or loss of the establishment’s liquor license. - Over-Service Laws (Dram Shop Liability)
It is illegal to serve someone who is visibly intoxicated. Colorado’s dram shop laws mean that both the server and the establishment may be held financially liable if an intoxicated guest causes injury, damage, or death after being overserved. - Mandatory ID Checks for Anyone Appearing Under 30
Colorado requires bartenders and servers to check IDs of anyone who could reasonably be under 50 years old. Acceptable IDs include a state-issued driver’s license or ID card, passport, or military ID. Fake or expired IDs must be refused.
Get Trained at the Right Age and Get Certified in Colorado
Whether you’re seeking convenience, affordability, or specialized training in Colorado to be a bartender or an alcohol server, we are here to help. With the Colorado Alcohol Awareness Training, you can gain the skills and certification needed to provide safe and responsible alcohol service as a bartender or as an alcohol server.
See more topics related to certifications in Colorado:
Ready to enhance your skills and earn your certification? Explore Certification Experts’ offerings today and take the next step in your career.