The easiest way to break into it is to be a server in a restaurant/bar, and let the manager know you want to become a bartender. Let him/her know that you know ALL your drinks (and really know them!) and then take on a day shift, see what you think. It will let the manager see how you do.

If you are friendly, have a good memory for recipes, and can handle stress (10 drinks need to be made for servers waiting for you to make them, you need to make two drinks for people at the bar, you just ran out of Grey Goose, and when yous tart to pull a Guiness, the keg blows) then you will be just fine.

Bartending school is a waste of money.

Best of luck!

I am considering one in Sherman Oaks California near the corner of Van Nuys and Ventura Boulevards.