How To Become A Poker Dealer In The UK

Fancy a career change? How would you like to work in one of the most exciting jobs around? You may even have the chance to travel the world on cruise ships, see the starry lights of Vegas, witness your fellow man experience every emotion under the sun. Joy. Pain. Tears. Sorrow. Ecstasy. One minute you may be consoling a loser, the next celebrating with the winners. Yes, all this could be yours... as a day in the life of a Poker dealer.

Being a Poker Dealer, or Croupier is a varied and exciting job. However, it is not for everyone. If you are considering becoming a poker dealer in the UK then there are some skills you will need to possess as well as training and qualifications you will be required to obtain.

A poker dealer needs to possess great customer service skills. You need to be tactful and polite. You must be prepared to deal with agitated and drunk customers in a friendly but firm manner. You should enjoy being in the spotlight and being the centre of attention. You will need to be numerate and possess the ability to do mental calculations quickly. Obviously you need to be able to handle a deck of cards and a stack of chips, and be able to deal quickly and smoothly. You will also need to be honest, scrupulous and have a keen eye for security and procedure – in other words be able to spot a potential cheater. A foreign language will also be useful if you intend to work overseas or on cruise ships. You cannot be a poker dealer or a Croupier if you have a criminal record.

Before you commence work you will need to gain a license from the Gambling Commission. This is usually awarded once you have completed 'on the job' training. Training can last six to eight weeks. Training can be in-house at a casino or at a training facility. To check for UK vacancies you should contact the British Casino Association.

Career progression to a casino management position can be achieved by obtaining a diploma or degree in casino operations, management or gambling and leisure management. Courses are available in specific UK locations.

For cruise ship work you will need to have at least two years experience in a UK casino under your belt. You should also be able to deal at least three different types of card game. Cruise ship work may require additional languages. For poker dealer work in Las Vegas or Monte Carlo you will have to undergo an extensive dealing audition and need to possess a variety of skills.

Poker dealer wages can vary but you can also make a killing in tips (tips can now be accepted by UK casino staff due to recent changes in gambling legislation)! Additional money can be earned by being a self employed 'dealer for hire'. The growing trend for casino parties in the UK means that you can charge per hour and set your own fees. Companies such as ours offer a platform for you to display your portfolio and attract customers. However, you will often be required to bring all of the equipment that is needed for the games to each venue, such as cards, chips and possibly a poker table so investing in some sturdy kit will make sense.

With ever more people organising casino themed nights for every occasion and in every location, the opportunities are limited only by your imagination and your commitment to hard work.

For information on becoming a poker dealer in the USA please click on the link.