Getting into convention and event work in Las Vegas
Most show-week jobs need one or two cards before your first shift, and the skilled trades on the show floor are union work with their own way in. Get the right card first, then the right list.
Last checked Oct 30, 2026
What to know
- Food handler card
Anyone working in a food establishment in Southern Nevada needs a Southern Nevada Health District food handler card. A new card or renewal is $25, it lasts 3 years, and the first test is in person with photo ID (20 questions, 70% to pass). The card is issued the same day.
ConfirmedSouthern Nevada Health District: Food HandlerChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Alcohol awareness card
To serve or sell alcohol you need an alcohol awareness card from a state-approved provider (TAM of Nevada is one). You can take the course online, but the test is proctored in person. The card lasts 4 years and isn't renewed; you retake the course. Each provider sets its own price.
ConfirmedNevada Commission on Postsecondary Education: approved alcohol awareness providersChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Security work
Event security for a licensed security company needs a work card from the Private Investigators Licensing Board: $85, or $129 expedited, plus fingerprints and photos. A provisional card comes by email in 1 to 2 weeks; security company workers must score 100% on the exam.
ConfirmedNevada PILB work card applicationChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Sheriff's work cards
Clark County has cut back which jobs need a sheriff's work card over the years, and casino gaming jobs register with the Nevada Gaming Control Board instead. Ask the employer which card the job needs before you pay for one.
Not yet confirmedClark County business license FAQChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Show labor (Teamsters Local 631)
Freight, booth install and dismantle work runs through Teamsters Local 631. Its convention apprenticeship opens in short application windows with an entrance exam, a drug test and a boot camp, so watch for the next one. The training trust offers OSHA, forklift and lift certifications, which expire after 3 years.
Not yet confirmedTeamsters Local 631 training centerChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Stagehands and AV (IATSE Local 720)
IATSE Local 720 takes applications online and may dispatch applicants as overhire. Complete every skill entry with a verifier, or you can't join the temporary list. Applicants chosen by the training committee do a 3-day orientation and need an OSHA 10 or 30 card. Applying doesn't guarantee work.
ConfirmedIATSE Local 720 applicationsChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Show electrical (IBEW Local 357)
Licensed electricians sign the out-of-work book in person on weekdays and can check the local's trade show schedule. New electricians go through the apprenticeship.
ConfirmedIBEW Local 357Checked Oct 30, 2026
- Forklift certification
Your employer certifies you to drive a forklift after classroom training, hands-on practice and an evaluation, and re-evaluates you at least every 3 years. A wallet card from a training company isn't an OSHA license on its own.
ConfirmedOSHA: powered industrial truck trainingChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Pay rules
Nevada's minimum wage is $12.00 an hour from July 1, 2026. Workers paid under $18.00 an hour earn time and a half for more than 8 hours in a 24-hour period. Union contracts can set different terms.
ConfirmedNevada Labor Commissioner: daily overtime bulletin, June 2026Checked Oct 30, 2026