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Gambling Dealer

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Hospitality and Tourism cluster Recreation, Amusements and Attractions pathway.

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

High school completed (GED)

Gaming dealers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Gambling services workers must be licensed by a state regulatory agency, such as a state casino control board or gambling commission.

Insider Info

Additional Information

The majority of casino dealers take special courses at dealer schools. Training ranges from as little as three weeks to three months. Blackjack is relatively simple to learn, roulette requires a little more time, and craps is probably the most difficult.

After gaining some experience, new dealers commonly take more training to qualify them in additional games. Before investing in any training or the licensing fee, check with the local casinos to find out about job prospects. If you're interested in eventually becoming a pit manager, it's advisable to get a college degree. You must also attend a licensed dealers school for three months.

You must be 21 in most states to become a casino dealer. Most also require a police or gaming work permit. Contrary to popular belief, the gaming industry is no longer limited only to Las Vegas and Atlantic City. New Jersey, North Carolina, Texas, Illinois, Florida, Iowa, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oregon, Colorado and Wyoming all offer opportunities.

When selecting a training program, it's important to do some research. Talk to some grads or current students and ask them what they liked and disliked about their program. Try to get a hold of some statistics about the program, like number of graduates, average starting salary of graduates and the number of people who get a job after graduation. These numbers should be available from the admissions office.