What's an Alcohol Service Permit and How to Get it in Washington?

If you’re planning to bartend, serve, or sell alcohol in Washington State, you can’t legally do it without an Alcohol Service Permit—officially known as a MAST (Mandatory Alcohol Server Training) Permit. Whether you’re 18 and starting out as a server or 21+ and managing a bar, this permit is essential for staying compliant with state law and ensuring responsible alcohol service.
Oct 8
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In this guide, we’ll explain what an alcohol service permit is, who needs one, the difference between Class 12 and Class 13 permits, and how to get your MAST permit in Washington State step by step. You’ll also discover how the Certification Experts’ online courses can help prepare you to pass your MAST training confidently.

What Is an Alcohol Service Permit (MAST Permit) in Washington State?

An Alcohol Service Permit—also called a MAST Permit or an Alcohol Server Permit—is a state-mandated certification required by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) for anyone who sells, serves, or supervises the sale of alcohol.

The purpose of the MAST program is to ensure alcohol servers understand:

  • How to prevent over-service and intoxication

  • How to verify IDs and prevent underage sales

  • The legal responsibilities and liabilities tied to alcohol service

  • How to handle intoxicated or aggressive customers safely


Holding a valid MAST permit demonstrates that you are trained in safe, responsible alcohol service—a key factor in reducing workplace risk and protecting your employer’s liquor license.

Why You Need an Alcohol Server Permit in Washington

In Washington State, alcohol service laws are strict. The Revised Code of Washington (RCW 66.20.310) mandates that any person who serves or sells alcohol must have a valid permit within 60 days of employment.

Failure to comply can lead to:

  • Fines for both employees and employers

  • License suspension or revocation for the business

  • Legal liability in alcohol-related incidents


Beyond legality, employers often prefer staff who already have their permits—it’s a sign of professionalism and preparedness. For business owners and managers, ensuring all employees are properly permitted minimizes the risk of costly violations.

The Two Types of MAST Permits in Washington: Class 12 vs. Class 13

Washington divides its alcohol service permits into two categories, depending on the employee’s age and responsibilities:

Class 12 MAST Permit (Mixologist Permit)

  • For individuals 21 years of age or older

  • Required for bartenders, managers, and anyone who:

         Mixes or pours alcohol

         Draws from taps or operates dispensing devices
         
         Supervises alcohol service or other staff

  • Each licensed establishment must have at least one Class 12 permit holder on duty whenever alcohol is being served.

In short: If you’re 21 or older and working behind the bar, you’ll need a Class 12 MAST permit.
Also known as the “Washington State Mixologist Permit”, this license gives you full serving privileges.

Class 13 MAST Permit

  • For individuals 18 to 20 years old

  • Allows serving alcohol but not mixing drinks or working behind the bar

  • Holders can open and pour beer or wine at tables but cannot handle liquor or taps directly

Example: If you’re 19 and serving wine in a restaurant, a Class 13 permit is perfect. Once you turn 21, you can upgrade to a Class 12 permit through an approved course.

Who Needs a Washington Alcohol Service Permit?

You must obtain a MAST permit if you work in any of the following roles:

  • Bartenders and mixologists

  • Servers and waitstaff in restaurants

  • Bar managers and supervisors

  • Store clerks selling alcohol in retail settings

  • Casino or event staff serving alcohol


Essentially, anyone who serves, sells, mixes, or supervises alcohol service at a licensed venue must hold a valid permit.

Employers are also responsible for maintaining records of employee permits and ensuring they are renewed on time.

How To Get an Alcohol Service Permit in Washington (Step-by-Step)

Getting your MAST permit is simple—but you must follow the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board’s approved process.

Here’s the step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choose an Approved Course Provider

Visit the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board website and find an approved MAST course provider under “Find a Class.”

Only WSLCB-approved providers can issue valid permits.

Step 2: Complete the Online Training Course

The course typically takes 2–3 hours and covers key topics such as:

  • State alcohol laws and regulations

  • Checking IDs correctly

  • Handling intoxicated guests

  • Preventing sales to minors

  • Responsible service techniques

Step 3: Pass the Final Exam

After completing the training, you’ll need to pass a final assessment. Most providers allow you to retake the test if needed.

Step 4: Your Completion Is Reported to the WSLCB

Once you pass, your course provider will report your completion directly to the WSLCB. You’ll receive your physical or digital MAST permit in the mail (or via email) shortly afterward.

Step 5: Verify Your Permit

You can confirm your permit status using the MAST Permit Checker on the WSLCB website.
Pro Tip:
Always double-check that your information is correct—errors in your name or birthdate can delay permit verification.

How Long Is a MAST Permit Valid For?

Your MAST permit is valid for five years from the date of issue. After it expires, you must retake the entire course and exam—it cannot be renewed automatically.

To avoid interruptions in your employment:

  • Keep track of your expiration date

  • Retake the course a few weeks before your permit expires


You can verify your expiration at any time using the WSLCB’s permit checker tool.

Where Should Your Alcohol Server Permit Be?

This is a popular question—and an important compliance requirement.
According to WSLCB regulations:

  • You must carry your permit (or a copy) while on duty

  • It must be available for inspection by enforcement officers or supervisors at all times

Tip for managers: Keep employee permits on file at your establishment and ensure copies are updated regularly. This simple step prevents potential fines during inspections.

Common Mistakes When Getting a Washington MAST Permit

Even seasoned servers make errors when applying or renewing their permits. Avoid these common pitfalls:

  • Taking a course that isn’t WSLCB-approved

  • Missing the 60-day deadline after hire

  • Using a nickname or incorrect birthdate during registration

  • Forgetting to carry your permit at work

  • Letting the permit expire without retaking the course


By staying proactive, you’ll remain compliant and avoid unnecessary delays in your career progression.

Class 12 vs. Class 13: Which One Is Right for You?

Washington State offers two types of alcohol service permits under the MAST program—Class 12 and Class 13—each designed for different age groups and job responsibilities.

The Class 12 MAST Permit is for individuals 21 years of age or older. It grants full privileges to mix and pour alcoholic drinks, serve beer and wine, and supervise alcohol service in bars, restaurants, or other licensed establishments. This permit is also required for managers or anyone responsible for overseeing staff who handle alcohol. Because of its broader scope, every establishment must have at least one Class 12 permit holder on duty whenever alcohol is being served.

The Class 13 MAST Permit, on the other hand, is intended for employees aged 18 to 20. It allows younger servers to serve beer and wine to customers but does not permit mixing drinks, drawing from taps, or supervising alcohol service. Holders of a Class 13 permit can gain hands-on experience in hospitality while preparing for expanded duties later. Once they turn 21, they can upgrade to a Class 12 permit to take on bartending or managerial roles.

Quick takeaway:

 If you’re under 21, start with a Class 13 permit—you’ll still gain valuable experience and meet legal requirements. Once you reach 21, upgrading to Class 12 unlocks full bartending privileges and career flexibility in Washington’s alcohol service industry.

Why Certification Experts Is Your Go-To for Washington Alcohol Awareness Training

At Certification Experts, we understand the challenges of starting or advancing your career in Washington’s hospitality industry. That’s why we offer comprehensive online alcohol awareness training designed to prepare you for your Class 12 or Class 13 MAST permit.

Our courses are:

  • 100% online and self-paced – study anytime, anywhere

  • Perfect preparation for MAST permit exams – so you can confidently earn your certification

Even though our courses are currently pending state-approval, they’re an excellent way to build foundational knowledge and gain an edge in your hospitality career.

Explore our courses:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What permit do I need to serve alcohol in Washington?

You need a MAST Permit (Mandatory Alcohol Server Training) issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.
If you’re 21 or older, you’ll need a Class 12 permit; if you’re 18–20, you’ll need a Class 13 permit.

Where should my alcohol server permit be while I’m working?

Keep your permit on your person or easily accessible while on duty—it must be available for inspection by state officers or management.

How long does it take to get a MAST permit?

Most online courses take 2–3 hours, and your permit is typically issued within 30 days after passing your exam.

Can I serve alcohol at 18 in Washington?

Yes. If you’re between 18 and 20 years old, you can serve alcohol with a Class 13 permit—but you can’t mix drinks or work behind the bar until you’re 21.

Start Getting Your Alcohol Service Permit Today

Earning your Alcohol Service Permit in Washington State is a career investment for your future. With the hospitality and nightlife scene thriving across Seattle, Spokane, and the rest of the Evergreen State, having your MAST permit ensures you can work confidently, responsibly, and legally.

Whether you’re an aspiring bartender or a restaurant manager, taking the right training is your first step.

Get started today with the Certification Experts’ Washington Alcohol Awareness Training and prepare to earn your Class 12 or Class 13 MAST Permit—the smart, professional, and compliant way to serve alcohol safely.