Get Your Washington Alcohol Training Fast & Online: State-Approved MAST Permit

If you’re eager to start serving or selling alcohol in Washington, you’ll need to complete a Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) course—and fast. Whether you're a new bartender, a food server, or a bar owner onboarding a new team, time is of the essence.
Jul 30
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Get Your Alcohol Certification Today.

Fortunately, Washington State makes it easy: you can complete your alcohol server training 100% online, often in just a few hours. All it takes is choosing a WSLCB-approved provider, registering, finishing the course, passing the test, and waiting for your permit in the mail.

Certification Experts offers two fully compliant online options:



In this guide, you’ll learn how to get trained and certified quickly—legally and efficiently.

🧭 What Is the MAST Permit, and Who Needs It?

The Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permit is required by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) for anyone who serves, mixes, sells, or supervises the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption.

Who Must Take It?

  • Bartenders

  • Servers and waitstaff

  • Bar managers

  • Cashiers at bars or restaurants selling alcohol

  • Event staff and catering servers


You cannot legally perform these duties in Washington without a MAST permit. Employers are responsible for ensuring their staff are properly certified.

🧑‍🏫 Class 12 vs. Class 13: What’s the Difference?

Permit Age Duties Allowed
Class 12 21 + Mix drinks, pour from taps, serve, supervise other servers
Class 13 18 -20 Serve alcohol at tables, open and pour bottles at tables
  • The same course is taken for both permits.

  • Your age at the time of course completion determines whether you receive Class 12 or 13.

  • If you're 21 or older and want to bartend or supervise, you'll need the Class 12 permit. If you're 18–20 and working as a server, the Class 13 is right for you.

⚡ How to Get Your Alcohol Server Permit Fast (in 5 Steps)

Step 1: Choose a WSLCB-Approved Provider

Ensure the course is officially recognized by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board. Certification Experts is one of those trusted providers.

Step 2: Register Online

Registration is instant and available 24/7. You can start learning right away.

Step 3: Complete the Course (Minimum 3 Hours)

The state requires all MAST training to take at least three hours. Online courses are self-paced, so you can break it up or finish it in one sitting.

Step 4: Pass the Exam

The test is typically short and straightforward. Most platforms allow unlimited retakes.

Step 5: Download Certificate, Receive Permit

Upon passing, you get a downloadable certificate to show your employer. Your official MAST permit arrives by mail within 7–30 days.

🚧 Common Challenges Around Washington Alcohol Training

  1. Unclear Permit Requirements – Many don’t realize that anyone serving or handling alcohol in Washington needs a valid MAST permit.

  2. Confusion Between Class 12 and Class 13 – Workers often enroll in a course without knowing which permit class is required based on their age and duties.

  3. Outdated or Illegitimate Providers – Choosing a training provider that isn’t WSLCB-approved can lead to wasted time and money.

  4. Time Sensitivity – New hires typically need to start working ASAP, but they must complete training within 60 days.

  5. Physical Permit Delays – While the MAST permit is mailed, employers need immediate proof of completion.

  6. Employer Risk – Businesses can face fines if staff are serving alcohol without valid permits.

📈 Trends in Washington State Alcohol Server Training

  1. Online Learning Dominates – Majority of Washington alcohol training is now completed through online platforms.

  2. High Demand for Fast Certification – Seasonal hiring surges (especially in summer) increase the demand for quick and accessible training.

  3. Expanded Use of Permit Trackers – Employers are implementing internal systems to manage staff permit status.

  4. Growth in Class 13 Certification – The 18–20 workforce continues to grow, fueling Class 13 permit enrollments.

❓ FAQs: Alcohol Training in Washington

Is Washington alcohol training legit online?
Yes, if it’s from a WSLCB-approved provider like Certification Experts. Always double check.

Can I work before I receive my permit?
Yes, during the 60-day grace period, as long as you’ve completed the course and can show proof.

What if I lose my permit?
You can request a replacement from WSLCB or verify your permit using their Permit Checker Tool.

Can employers get penalized?
Yes. Businesses can be fined or risk license suspension for having non-compliant staff.

✅ Practical Tips for Fast Compliance

Successfully completing your MAST alcohol server training in Washington doesn’t have to be stressful—if you follow a few smart strategies, you can stay compliant, impress your employer, and avoid delays. Whether you’re a bartender, server, seller, or manager, here’s how to get it done right:

  • 📝 Start the course as soon as you're hired
    Don’t wait until your 60-day grace period is almost over. Completing the training early gives you peace of mind, lets you focus on the job, and avoids scrambling under pressure.

  • 🔐 Choose a WSLCB state-approved provider
    Only training providers certified by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) can issue legal MAST permits. If it’s not approved, it won’t count—so double-check before registering. (Hint: Certification Experts is state-approved.)

  • 🕓 Block off at least 3 hours to complete the training
    Washington law requires that MAST courses take a minimum of 3 hours. Set aside uninterrupted time so you can complete the course in one sitting or spread it over a couple of sessions at your pace.

  • 📎 Print or save your completion certificate immediately
    After you pass the test, download or print your certificate right away. You can legally start working with this document while waiting for your physical MAST permit to arrive in the mail.

  • 📬 Expect your official MAST permit to arrive in 7–30 days
    The physical card is sent by mail. If you need it urgently, some providers offer expedited shipping for an additional fee—check your options at checkout.

  • 🧾 Keep a digital backup of your certificate and permit
    Email a copy to yourself or save it in the cloud so you always have access. This comes in handy if you change jobs or misplace your physical card.

  • 👩‍💼 Managers and Owners: Stay organized and proactive
    During onboarding, document each employee’s MAST permit type (Class 12 or 13). Use a spreadsheet or HR tool to log expiration dates and set renewal reminders—permits must be renewed every 5 years to stay valid.

🏁 Get Certified Fast and Start Serving

Whether you're staffing up for the weekend or starting a new job tomorrow, getting your Washington alcohol training online is the fastest, easiest way to become legally compliant.

Washington’s Mandatory Alcohol Server Training can be completed online, you can register instantly, finish in one sitting, and be certified the same day. Your mailed MAST permit will follow shortly.

If you're a bartender, server, or business owner in Washington, the most efficient path to compliance is through a state-approved course like:



Start today. Get trained. Serve responsibly.