Butler CertificationsYour path to professional excellence
The Japan Butler Association operates a comprehensive butler certification system. From the foundational Associate Butler through the Professional Butler for experienced practitioners to the industry’s highest Master Butler, our tiers build systematic skill—complemented by specialized qualifications, all through distance learning with a complimentary 3-hour salon experience.
Step by step, toward true mastery
Our certifications are highly regarded by the hotel industry and high-net-worth individuals both in Japan and abroad, serving as an essential step in building a solid career as a butler.
The heart of the system is the three-tier progression of core certifications. Level-skipping is not permitted: you advance in order from Associate Butler (Beginner) to Professional Butler (Intermediate) and Master Butler (Advanced). Specialized certifications in fields such as fine dining, tea, and business manner are also available.
Every certification is earned through distance learning, available nationwide, and each includes a complimentary 3-hour butler salon experience (¥30,000 value) at our Odaiba salon.
- Core Tiers
- 3
- Pass Score
- 80+
- Bonus
- 3-hr salon
Three core tiers of proven skill
Comprehensive certifications that progressively prove your butler skill. Rise one tier at a time, from beginner to advanced—level-skipping is not permitted. First build the foundation, then practice, then oversight.
IAssociate Butler
Beginner
An entry-level certification covering fundamental butler knowledge and etiquette. Perfect for beginners with no prior experience.
- Textbook
- ~100 pp.
- Study
- 2–4 mo.
- Prerequisite
- None
IIProfessional Butler
Intermediate
An intermediate certification for those with broad knowledge and experience, capable of independently providing high-quality service.
- Textbook
- ~200 pp.
- Study
- 4–6 mo.
- Prerequisite
- Associate
IIIMaster Butler
Advanced
The highest certification, for those with exceptional skill and knowledge who mentor other butlers and manage complex situations.
- Textbook
- ~300 pp.
- Study
- 6–8 mo.
- Prerequisite
- Professional
Compare the three tiers
| Item | Associate | Professional | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target | Beginners | Experienced | Instructors |
| Textbook | ~100 pages | ~200 pages | ~300 pages |
| Study Period | 2–4 months | 4–6 months | 6–8 months |
| Prerequisite | None | Associate | Professional |
| Fee | ¥48,000 | ¥78,000 | ¥128,000 |
Everything is included in the fee
- Textbook materials (printed)
- Online video lessons (1-year access)
- Practice kit
- Exam & answer sheets
- Exam grading service
- Certificate & ID card (upon passing)
- 3-hour butler salon experience
- Shipping included
Five steps to certification
- 1Application
Apply through our online form. Materials are shipped after payment confirmation.
- 2Materials Arrive & Start
Receive the textbook, practice kit, video access code, and butler salon voucher.
- 3Take the Exam
When ready, complete the exam and return your answer sheet (within 1 year of application).
- 4Pass / Fail Determination
Pass with 80 or higher. A certificate and ID card are issued to successful candidates.
- 5Certification Complete
Certification is complete upon certificate arrival. It can be listed on your resume (no expiration).
Important information
- These are private certifications issued by the Japan Butler Association
- Certification does not guarantee employment, career advancement, or income
- This is a learning programme for knowledge acquisition and self-improvement
- Actual employment is subject to each employer’s hiring criteria
- Re-examination fee: ¥15,000 (unlimited retakes within 1 year if failed)
Find your perfect certification
We will recommend the best certification path for your career goals and interests. Explore our butler services, or reach out with any question.