To work as a waiter or waitress, you typically need to:

• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Work experience

Formal restaurants may require experience in food service. Informal restaurants are less likely to require experience.

On-the-job training

Most waiters and waitresses learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. Some restaurants offer their own training program. Training may last up to a month.