How to Become a Bouncer or Nightclub Security Worker

Last Updated: December 5, 2023

Bouncers are employed to guard venues including bars, casinos, and nightclubs by enforcing policies to maintain peace and control. They are responsible for denying entry to minors who aren't of legal drinking age, people who are very drunk, or not dressed appropriately, and removing people who are very intoxicated or causing a disturbance from the premises. Most people dislike Bouncers, which makes this a very dangerous job. You should be as physically fit as possible to defend yourself.

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Be physically fit. Due to the nature of the job, many employers prefer to hire men who are physically fit (tall, muscular, big belly, etc.), have athletic experience, have law enforcement or military experience, or have a background in martial arts as Bouncers.
- Take lessons in mixed martial arts including Krav Maga or BJJ. Knowing how to fight is very important as you may have to defend yourself against an angry or drunk person.
- Having police or military experience will also make you qualified as you were trained to fight and defend yourself. Many bouncers are off-duty or former cops and veterans.
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Learning how to neutralize a fight without injuring the other person is crucial to being a bouncer. Bouncers should be able to handle an altercations in a calm and intentional manner. This makes the bar owner happy and the customers calm. ^{[1]
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Approach this person about a possible job opening. If he doesn't make hiring decisions, he will know who does and he will likely be consulted during the selection process. Be confident, but not arrogant. ^{[2]
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This will just get you arrested and jobless.
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Not many people do this, but it will work some of the time. But for goodness sake, do not nag them every night when you're drunk. You will never get the job. ^{[3]
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Hang out with them, learn from them and tell them you want to bounce. Sooner or later, you will get to pick up a shift and if it all works out you will get a few more. In this line of work, you have to earn your co-workers' respect. This is the most important thing to remember respect means everything to our kind. ^{[4]
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Get to know the staff and avoid getting intoxicated at the bar. You have an advantage if you are over 25 and have a larger build. Just ask around. ^{[5]
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Do I need a license to be a doorman?

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In the United Kingdom, you do need a license, an SIA license to be specific.

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I am great at boxing. How can I apply for a bouncer job?

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You need to go on an SIA training course. After completing the course, you then need to apply for your badge online.

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Who can I become a bouncer?

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In theory, anyone may become a bouncer; however, to be hired, you must meet specific requirements. You must have the appropriate license (you will not be granted a license until you have had a criminal record check etc., training and passed the exam) and be over the age of 18.

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It takes time to learn all the tricks of the trade, so pay attention and be respectful of the elders and they will teach you more than you could ever believe.

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If force is required to stop someone from fighting, or to escort a trouble-maker out the door, use the minimum amount of force necessary. If possible, wait for another bouncer to help directly, watch your back, or clear a path to the door (if you're quickly moving a troublemaker out of the bar).

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Have your fellow bouncers backs, no matter what, because they will have yours.

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Make sure your radio, headset, or walkie talkie is operational before and during your shift.

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Warnings

Don't expect the same from them and never, never, never let your guard down.

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There is safety in numbers.

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Never forget that walking to your car is the most dangerous time of the night. You're tired and just want to go to bed, but you're not out of the woods yet. There may still be a few fights left.

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Treat everyone with respect that walks through the barroom doors.

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When every one has left the club, have a few laughs about what just happened.

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