Is a personal licence important in a bartender cover letter?

It is a useful extra, especially if the venue wants someone who can progress to a supervisor role, but most bar staff jobs do not require one.

How do I sound friendly without being too casual?

Use short, clear sentences and a warm tone, but avoid slang. Write as you would speak to a customer you have just met.

I have never worked behind a bar. What should I say?

Describe any job where you served people quickly, handled cash or stayed calm under pressure, and say that you are keen to learn the drinks.

Bartender cover letter example

A strong bartender cover letter shows quick, friendly service and an understanding of licensing rules, backed by one example of staying calm during a rush. It should mention the type of bar you have worked in, any personal licence and your availability for late nights and weekends.

Imogen Hartley

imogen@example.com 07700 900138 Brighton

3 March 2026

The Drover's Arms

Dear Ms Kowalczyk,

I am writing to apply for the Bartender role at The Drover's Arms, advertised on your website. For the past three years I have worked behind the bar at a busy town-centre pub, serving drinks on live sport and music nights and looking after the cellar.

On a typical Saturday I serve a packed bar, keep the queue moving and stay friendly while I check ID under Challenge 25. Last December I ran the bar on my own for forty minutes when a colleague went home unwell, and I kept the orders right and the customers happy until the manager came back.

I hold a personal licence, I am confident with cellar work and cashing up, and I enjoy showing new staff how to use the till. The Drover's Arms appeals to me because you serve local ales and run a weekly quiz night, which suits how I like to work: chatting with regulars and getting to know what they drink.

I can work evenings, weekends and bank holidays, and I can give a week's notice if you need someone quickly. Thank you for considering my application. I would be glad to do a trial shift.

Yours sincerely,

Imogen Hartley

Example · fictional candidate · Statement design

Tips for a bartender cover letter

Mention the kind of pub or bar you have worked in and the busiest nights
Show that you understand licensing by referring to Challenge 25 or to refusing service politely
Include one example of staying calm and friendly during a rush
Mention cellar skills or drinks knowledge if the venue serves cask ale or cocktails
Say you can work late nights, weekends and bank holidays if that is true
Explain why you want to work at that venue, using something real such as its events or drinks

Pair it with a CV: see our bartender CV example.

Bartender cover letter example

Imogen Hartley

Tips for a bartender cover letter

Questions about bartender cover letters