The complete guide
Everything about the Bartender Test
Pair this test with the rest of the first round: springhire's candidate screening software adds a one-way video interview and resume scoring to the same candidate link, ranked in one report.
What is the Bartender Test?
The Bartender Test is built for hiring bar staff who will serve guests safely and keep the bar running. Questions cover classic drink knowledge and techniques such as when to shake or stir, standard pours and garnishes, as well as service situations like a guest unhappy with a drink or a crowded bar at peak time. A large share of the test is responsible service: spotting signs of intoxication, refusing service politely, handling fake IDs and keeping guests safe. Bar operations questions cover stock rotation, waste, cash handling and opening and closing routines.
What the Bartender Test does not measure
It does not measure speed behind a busy bar, drink presentation or local licensing certificates. Confirm any required responsible-service certificate and consider a short trial shift.
How does the Bartender Test work?
The Bartender Test is an auto-scored multiple-choice test. Each candidate answers 20 questions drawn at random from a bank of 60, so two candidates rarely see the same set, and most finish in 8 to 12 minutes. The questions are spread evenly across drinks and techniques, guest service, responsible service and bar operations, with a mix of easy, medium and hard items, and the report shows a score for each area as well as an overall score.
Why is the Bartender Test important to employers?
A bartender who overserves, misses an underage guest or pours inconsistently creates legal, safety and cost problems for the venue. Good bartenders also sell more and keep guests coming back. This test shows who knows the craft and, more importantly, who will make the right call when a guest has had too much.
