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Real Graduates. Real Jobs.

Don't take our word for it. Hear from the people who trained here and found work behind the bar.

Our Graduates at Work

From the classroom to the best bars in the DC region.

PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

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PBS graduate bartending an event

PBS graduate bartending an event

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PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

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PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

graduate dc
PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

graduate dc
PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

graduate dc
PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

graduate dc
PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

graduate dc
PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

graduate dc
PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

PBS graduate bartending in Washington DC

graduate dc
PBS graduate bartending an event

PBS graduate bartending an event

graduate event
PBS graduate bartending an event

PBS graduate bartending an event

graduate event
PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

graduate working
PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

graduate working
PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

graduate working
PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

graduate working
PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

graduate working
PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

graduate working
PBS graduate at work

PBS graduate at work

graduate working
Danielle - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Danielle - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

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Martin - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Martin - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

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Mike - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Mike - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

graduate virginia
Joni - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Joni - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

graduate virginia
Russell - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Russell - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

graduate virginia
Julian - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Julian - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

graduate virginia
Rob - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Rob - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

graduate virginia
Holly - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

Holly - PBS graduate bartending in Virginia

graduate virginia
PBS bartender

PBS bartender

bartender
PBS bartender

PBS bartender

bartender

Over 300 Google Reviews. 4.9 Stars.

Don't take our word for it - hear from real graduates.

Google
I chose the Professional Bartending School in Arlington, VA based on its great reviews, informative website, and convenient location near Court House Metro. What a great decision! The staff is kind, responsive, observant, knowledgeable, and deeply experienced. The training cur...
M

Mark Nachtrieb

2 months ago

Google
Graduated last year from the school of Professional Bartending and it was a feat that I wanted for years! The support and encouragement that is given uplifts even the darkest days. I applied while homeless and through dedication and commitment and again the help of my peers an...
J

Justin Oliver

2 months ago

Google
The Professional Bartending School of Arlington is a great school to learn to be a certified bartender. Even though I had previous experience in bartending from many years ago, I learned so many concepts that will be valuable to me in the industry. Not only did I learn over 10...
D

David Szybalski

3 months ago

Google
Best training course ever!! Ty Was the best instructor!! She’s so fun and makes the class so entertaining and engaging! I love playing with water too!! lol it’s for learning but it really is so effective.
A

Alyssa Brodie

8 months ago

Google
The class was phenomenal!!!! You get behind the bar immediately learning where things are and how to pour effectively. The Teachers and Staff are extremely friendly and and eager to help. The curriculum is a lot to take in but with the techniques given to remember recipes, the...
B

Budda

7 years ago

Google
Passed my speed test! Professional Bartending School provided excellent hands on training and plenty of practice time. The staff and instructors at PBS were amazing and they really care about students honing their skills. While you don't often see many 40 or 50 year-olds (I'm ...
H

Hugh Apple

Edited 8 years ago

Google
This was such a great experience. Ty and Gabrielle are great instructors, both very helpful and encouraging. I took the (2) weeks class and graduated on a Friday. I learned a lot of information that will benefit me with my bartending career. The school also assist with job pla...
Y

Yeezy

2 years ago

Google
I had an amazing experience at this bartending school! The atmosphere is friendly and professional, making it the perfect place to learn. The instructor, is truly fantastic—she is patient, knowledgeable, and explains everything so clearly. Even though my English is not very st...
A

Alireza Ghazinasab

11 months ago

Google
I attended and graduated from this school twice already. I first took the course in 2010 and enjoyed every minute of it. The instructors were knowledgeable, the lessons were easy to understand, and the lectures were fun and engaging. I am more of a hands-on person, so I had a ...
S

Sanai Michelle

8 years ago

Google
If you're looking to get your bartender's license, I can't recommend Profesional Bartending School in Arlington enough. From the moment you enroll to the day you graduate, the whole staff is hands on training in every aspect of bartending. The atmosphere really feels like you'...
M

Mario Lopez

3 years ago

Google
Man where do I start? This class is so great , who would think you would learn how to bartend in 2 weeks. The teachers are fun , very informative, the vibe is there and it really gets you out of your comfort zone . I strongly suggest coming here and learning something new! You...
N

Noe Gomez

8 months ago

Google
It was a great experience to go to PBS!! Shoutout to Debi in the front office but most definitely shoutout to my instructor Steph! You learn everything hands on, and it also gets you into the groove of how to actually work at an established bar! Plus it was great to learn a bu...
J

Jason Dacosta

9 months ago

Google
This was such an amazing experience ! From the initial call to graduation day! Ty in the BEST INSTRUCTOR!!! I enjoyed every single class and learned so much from her. She made the learning fun and exciting! I’m happy to graduate but will truly miss her instruction and extensiv...
D

Dominique Brown

11 months ago

Google
PBS works for everyone's schedule. Day time, evenings and/or weekends. They make learning fun and you will be able to remember it easily even after graduation, while on the job. You can get plenty of time before, after and in between class … More
H

Hannah Gulilat

Edited 3 years ago

Google
If you want to learn how to bartend this is the place to be!! From admissions to the instructors everyone is there to help you succeed and take those next steps to a career that will take you far in life!
L

Ladeja Johnson

3 months ago

Google
Making the on the whim decision to join PBS was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only did I learn a new skill but I gained a new sense of confidence with such a supportive community of bartenders coming from all walks of life! PBS laid a formative foundation tha...
M

Madalyn Godfrey

a year ago

Google
I walked in on a Friday to get some information on the school... Within minutes I was behind the bar learning and having fun. Two weeks later I was a certified bartender. I can honestly say that going to PBS was one of the best decisions I … More
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Bryce Colburn

8 years ago

Google
I had a blast in The Professional Bartender School in Arlington va. The classes where great the instructors kept you interested in learning more.
K

Kimberly Ishmell

6 years ago

Google
I’ve learned so much from Ty at the Professional Bartending School! She made the class fun and enjoyable all while filling us with knowledge about the drinks we were making. Thank you Ty for being a great instructor!
O

Octavia Saunders

11 months ago

Google
With a name like "Professional Bartending School" it may not seem so convincing at first. But honestly after giving it a try and going there to get myself certified I can definitely say that I have never invested better on myself as I did … More
F

Fernando Canseco Neri

Edited 10 years ago

Google
I just graduated from here and I loved it. The staff is experienced, awesome, and really helpful. I'm so glad I attended PBS and I'm so excited to see where it gets me! … More
A

Amanda Wiltse

11 years ago

Google
This was a great investment! A very unique learning environment. Not to mention FUN and supportive. The instructors are super-knowledgeable and share from their years of high-level experience to make sure students are over-prepared when … More
W

WordLife Band

8 years ago

Google
The Professional Bartending school was the most enjoyable classroom experience I have had to date! The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming. After attending the 2 week session I felt confident enough to take my speed test … More
I

Ivey Rebecca

11 years ago

Google
This is an awesome school! The instructors are great, the curriculum is self explanatory yet challenging, and they love their students. Once a member always a member! During my initial class in May of 2013, I decided to leave because of a … More
J

Jasmine Welch

7 years ago

Google
I love this school.. it was definitely great school recommended for everyone who want to start a new career to come to school to be a bartender. The teacher is great and the students they all will help to make sure that you pass and that … More
B

Brittany Watson

2 years ago

Google
Awesome School! I had a great experience, All the staff members are very personable and great to work with. I took my classes in the evenings which was perfect because I worked during the day. Jewels was my instructor and she was great! … More
T

Tanea Satchell

10 years ago

Google
This was a really great experience. By having multiple fully stocked bar stations made it a lot easier for everyone to get hands on experience making drinks. I was skeptical about spending $595 for the class but it is well worth it. What … More
B

Brandon McCain

11 years ago

Google
Veronica was a super fun instructor, classmates were really friendly and helpful. I walked in not knowing an awful lot but left passing both tests on my first try! For fun or for adding skills to your resume, I highly recommend.
A

Arvin Singh

2 years ago

Google
For someone who's never been behind a bar, my experience at Professional Bartending School has made me feel like a pro. The instructors and all the staff are awesome. They are very flexible and willing to work with schedules. I can say I … More
V

Victoria Smith

8 years ago

Google
First of all: the school staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the profession and are backed by years of experience. My instructor JEWELS is by far the most awesome and fun instructor I have ever had. She is always consistent with her … More
S

Stephen Crews

10 years ago

Google
I had an awesome experience at the Professional Bartending School. The staff and teachers were all very informative and pleasant. My instructor Jewels made the class extremely fun and exciting. I was taught over 150 cocktails and the proper … More
T

Tiana Bailey

10 years ago

Google
The training at the Professional Bartending School is extremely relevant to the industry and you can continue to practice even post graduation with access to the facility. The classes are so fun and super educational. Having the hands on … More
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Briana Dick

9 years ago

Google
I had an amazing experience at the Professional Bartending School in Arlington VA. I would recommend it to anyone who want to learn Bartending skills. The teachers were fun, personable and encouraging. They never made me feel like I … More
J

J Jackson

8 years ago

Google
I enrolled for the 2 week course at this academy and had the time of my life, I passed with flying colors and my amazing classmates and instructors made it very easy to understand and fun. I highly recommend this school to everyone who find … More
S

SORA ISHERE

6 years ago

Google
I had a great experience at PBS. The instructors are extremely helpful and accessible. You'll walk in here thinking you won't look anything like a real bartender and in just a few days you'll feel like a pro. I would highly recommend PBS to … More
J

Jameson

10 years ago

Google
Many thanks to the great team at PBS – everyone was not only supportive, but available and the classes flexible. So, what’s the quickest way to create a new … More
W

Wa Sul

10 years ago

Google
I just took this class. The staff is incredible. They are all upbeat, informative and really seem to love their job and the students. I learned a ton in two weeks. The instructors ( I had Ty and Gabby ) They were both so energetic, … More
D

Diana Austin

3 years ago

Google
I took this course in November with some urging from my Dad. I wasn't sure it was for me and had my hesitations, but all my doubts went away on the first day of class. It was by far the most fun learning experience of my life. My classmates … More
M

Maritza Herrera-Diaz

9 years ago

Google
I took the two week Bartending class and it was the most fun I have had in a long time. The instructor is amazing and the class is very interactive. You learn so much in two weeks. I have never bartended before and after taking this class I … More
J

Jaclyn Silva

4 years ago

Google
The classes were very fun and fantastic! Everyone is very nice, funny and helpful. I'm glad I went to PBS. I previously had a job as a bartender but the job placement they offer after you graduate is a great option to do events. Overall, great school!
C

Chloe Hadeed

9 years ago

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Featured Graduate Stories

MJ

Marcus Johnson

Old Ebbitt Grill

Left a desk job in 2022, graduated PBS, and was placed at one of DC's most iconic restaurants within two weeks.

I spent eight years in an office wondering what I was doing with my life. A friend mentioned PBS and I figured I had nothing to lose. Two weeks after graduating, I was behind the bar at Old Ebbitt Grill serving senators and tourists alike. The training was intense but practical - every single shift I lean on what I learned in those 40 hours. Three years later I am a senior bartender pulling in more than I ever made sitting at a desk, and I actually enjoy going to work.
KW

Keisha Williams

MGM National Harbor

Single mom who completed the Saturday program, placed at MGM within days of finishing.

The five-Saturday schedule was the only way I could make it work with my kids. The instructors were patient and thorough - they made sure I could free-pour, build cocktails from memory, and handle a rush before I walked out the door. The placement office called me the Monday after my last class with an interview at MGM National Harbor. I started the following week. The tips at the casino are incredible, and I finally have a career that lets me provide for my family on my own terms.
DO

David Okafor

Kennedy Center

Started with PBS event staffing, now works marquee events at the Kennedy Center full time.

I graduated during a slow hiring season, so I jumped into the event staffing side right away. Within my first month I worked a black-tie gala, a corporate holiday party, and a wedding for 400 people. Each event taught me something new about reading a crowd and managing volume. After six months of events, a contact at the Kennedy Center offered me a permanent spot. Now I work opening nights, galas, and private receptions. The money is great, but honestly the best part is that no two nights are ever the same.
ER

Elena Rodriguez

Ridgewells Caterers

Graduated the evening program while working days, now staffs presidential-level events through Ridgewells.

I took the two-week evening class so I could keep my day job while I trained. By the end of the program I knew I was ready for something bigger. Ridgewells brought me on for a State Dinner prep event and I never looked back. Since then I have bartended at PGA Championship tournaments, a Presidential Inauguration, and too many embassy receptions to count. PBS gave me the foundation, and the placement network gave me access to a world I did not even know existed.

What Employers Say About PBS Graduates

This has been our go-to bartending school for almost 20 years! Whether sending staff for additional training or looking for viable bartenders, we don't go anywhere else!

Anne Barnes

Long-Time Partner, Employer Partner

We rely on PBS for trained bartenders across all three of our venues. Their graduates come in ready to work and understand hospitality at a professional level.

Owner

Owner, Sutra Lounge / Club Timheri / Savour Restaurant

We would contact the school...they would give us who would work for our bar. When we interview the candidates they are usually knowledgeable.

Mo

General Manager (2009 Best Sports Bar DC), Penn Quarter Sports Tavern

I can take their grads directly out of school and train them exactly the way I want. We have had a great deal of success finding talent from them.

General Manager

GM, Tabaq (U Street)

PBS Bartenders have worked professional football games, professional and Major Championship golf tournaments, Presidential Inaugurations, State Dinners.

Director of Personnel

Director of Personnel, Ridgewells Caterers

What Our Graduates Say

After graduating I landed such a job within 3 weeks. I went through the entire process - classes, the job placement assistance, the resume help, the interview coaching. The whole experience from start to finish was worth every penny. The skill and resume combination is going to be a big help for a long time.
A

Adrian

I am confident in knowing that wherever I bartend I will be more than qualified because of what I was taught here.
BG

Brittany Garr

Upper Marlboro, MD

Best money I've ever spent!
AH

Angelique Hairston

Forrestville, MD

They took me from bar-ignorance to a professional bartender!
DF

Derek Francis-Diamond

Arlington, VA

I came to this school with the expectation of being an expert upon graduation and I wasn't disappointed!
JD

Janyka Danoy

Centreville, VA

PBS is the best place for true hands on training...You can't learn unless you get behind the bar.
RM

Rich Mayo

Sterling, VA

Great class. Awesome instructors that are very knowledgeable and enthusiastic...the best school around.
BG

Ben Goldberg

Potomac, MD

Tim is a wonderful and enthusiastic teacher who knows how to make learning fun...can't find any room for improvement.
MB

Miles Branch

Washington, DC

Great experience from beginning to end. The instructors really know their stuff and make learning bartending a lot of fun.
WS

William Smith

Alexandria, VA

I would recommend this school to anyone looking to learn bartending. The hands-on training makes all the difference.
PH

Priscilla Hutson

Washington, DC

Instructor Jon Rice is one of the best teachers I have ever had. He keeps the class engaged and makes sure everyone gets personal attention behind the bar.
BP

Brian Powell

Signed up not knowing what to expect and left feeling like a completely different person behind the bar. Worth every dollar.
MP

Michael Parker

Springfield, VA

I drove from Richmond to attend PBS and it was absolutely worth the commute. No other school in the area even comes close.
HH

Hope Hargrove

Richmond, VA

The job placement assistance is what really sets PBS apart. They helped me with my resume, prepped me for interviews, and connected me with employers.
MT

Marc Trewick

Washington, DC

PBS gave me the confidence and skills to walk into any bar and know I can handle whatever comes my way.
JS

Jamal Swayne

District Heights, MD

Fantastic program. The instructors are pros who genuinely care about your success. I learned more in two weeks than I thought possible.
BM

Brad Masters

Centreville, VA

I took the evening class and it fit perfectly with my schedule. The training was thorough and the atmosphere was great.
TB

Tiffany Bishop

Fairfax, VA

Everything about this school is top notch - the facility, the instructors, the materials. I felt completely prepared on my first shift.
WC

William Carter

Burke, VA

I enrolled with zero bartending knowledge and graduated feeling ready to work anywhere. The hands-on practice is nonstop.
CF

Cassie Frost

Alexandria, VA

As a military guy looking for something different, PBS delivered. Professional environment, real skills, and they helped me find work fast.
MF

Matt Fleming

Quantico, VA

The training facility is impressive - real equipment, real setup. You feel like you are working in an actual bar from day one.
AK

Andrey Korsak

Leesburg, VA

PBS exceeded my expectations. The curriculum is well structured and the instructors make sure you are ready before you graduate.
AL

Adam Lawson

Fairfax, VA

From the first class to job placement, PBS was there every step of the way. I am so glad I chose this school.
MJ

Monica Jackson

Temple Hills, MD

I looked at several bartending schools and PBS was the clear winner. The training is hands-on, the staff is supportive, and the job placement is real.
AH

Anissa Hargrove

Waldorf, MD

Ready to Write Your Own Success Story?