How to Become a Bouncer or Nightclub Security Worker

Last Updated: January 24, 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.

Steps

1
Be physically fit. Ideally, Bouncers should be at least six feet tall and muscular. Having a big chest and belly will also make you seem intimidating to attack. However, if you are not either tall or big-bellied, you should focus on improving your strength.
- 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.
2
Learn a practical martial art such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. 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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3
One of the best ways is to approach a bouncer and ask him who the head of security is. 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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4
One way that people like to use, but never works, is beat up the bouncer and show that you are tougher. This will just get you arrested and jobless.
5
Another way is to walk up to the club owner/manager and ask for a job. 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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The best way to get in as a bouncer is to make friends with other bouncers and bar-tenders, but not when they are working. 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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Most Bouncers are hired through referrals. 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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Community Q&A

Question

Do I need a license to be a doorman?

Community Answer

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

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

Community Answer

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

Who can I become a bouncer?

Community Answer

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.

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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