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How Do I Become a Gaming Dealer?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

If you live near a casino or are willing to relocate to an area that has one or more casinos, chances are you will find plenty of jobs available. One way to get hired is to become a gaming dealer; this person will run a gaming table, such as a poker table, craps table, or blackjack table, and essentially monitor the progress of the game. In order to become a gaming dealer, the first step you should take is researching the various state and local laws that regulate gaming. These will often outline the types of training you will need.

You will also need to inquire about the specific hiring requirements as outlined by a particular casino or gaming establishment. The casinos will generally outline specific qualifications you will need in order to become a gaming dealer, and such outlines will give you the best sense of what steps you will need to take to begin your career. It is highly likely that you will need to enroll in a dealer training program that will give you the most basic skills and knowledge necessary to become a gaming dealer. Before you enroll, it helps to learn as much as possible about the various table games offered by a casino. Learning more about the games will prepare you for a career in the field.

Dealers must have a perfect understanding of the games they host.
Dealers must have a perfect understanding of the games they host.

You will need to pass the licensing program in order to become a gaming dealer. Once you become licensed, you should not expect to immediately jump into the high-end casinos; you will likely start at lower-end casinos where demand is high and stakes are fairly low. You may end up spending several years in such establishments once you become a gaming dealer; you can advance to better positions in higher end casinos by working hard and establishing yourself as a knowledgeable and hardworking dealer. Be prepared to work late night shifts as well, as many casinos are open 24 hours a day.

Gaming dealers work at casinos hosting table games, such as craps.
Gaming dealers work at casinos hosting table games, such as craps.

Positions at high-end casinos can be extremely competitive, and you will need to apply for such jobs regularly and promptly after they are offered. Be ready to get rejected for such positions often, as the competition will be especially fierce. Be persistent, however, and keep your resume updated and ready to be sent in with an application at all times. Sometimes it is possible to take a lower-level position at a high-end casino and eventually work your way into a dealing position, though this is less common.

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    • Dealers must have a perfect understanding of the games they host.
      By: Yuri Arcurs
      Dealers must have a perfect understanding of the games they host.
    • Gaming dealers work at casinos hosting table games, such as craps.
      By: MaryPerry
      Gaming dealers work at casinos hosting table games, such as craps.