How to Get a Washington State Liquor License?

From understanding the different Washington liquor license types to navigating the city and state review process, there are a few critical steps business owners, managers, and staff can’t afford to miss. One misstep, and you could face costly delays — or worse, a denial.

In this guide, we’ll break it all down: how to get a liquor license in Washington State, how much it costs, the types available, and what you need to keep your team compliant. We’ll also highlight a crucial detail many overlook: your staff must be MAST-certified (Mandatory Alcohol Server Training), which you can easily complete through Washington State Alcohol Awareness Courses.

Let’s get your business on the fast track to serving responsibly — and legally.

A Washington liquor license is a legal requirement for any business that plans to sell, serve, or manufacture alcohol. That includes:

• Restaurants
• Bars and taverns
• Breweries, wineries, and distilleries
• Grocery and convenience stores
• Event venues

The license is issued by the WSLCB, which also oversees compliance and enforcement. Failure to obtain a proper liquor license can result in hefty fines, delays in opening, or permanent rejection.

The WSLCB offers over 20 different types of liquor licenses. They generally fall into two main categories:

These are for businesses selling alcohol directly to consumers:

• Beer/Wine Restaurant License: Allows the sale of beer and wine for on-premises consumption.
• Spirits/Beer/Wine Restaurant License: Permits the sale of all alcohol types, including spirits.
• Tavern License: For businesses that only serve alcohol and no food.
• Grocery Store License: For selling beer and wine to-go.

These are for manufacturers and distributors:

• Microbrewery License
• Domestic Winery License
• Liquor Importer License

The process involves multiple agencies, forms, and reviews. Here's how to navigate it:

Start with the Washington State Department of Revenue. You'll complete the Business License Application and include the Liquor Control Board Addendum.

Cities and counties can weigh in. You must post a public notice at your business and possibly in a local newspaper. Local agencies will review for zoning compliance and public safety.

If you're producing alcohol (e.g., winery or distillery), you’ll need a federal permit through the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).

WSLCB will review your application, perform background checks, and inspect your premises. Expect this to take 60–90 days.

Once all boxes are checked, the WSLCB will issue your liquor license.

Costs vary widely based on your license type and business location.

Typical Fees Include:

• Beer/Wine Restaurant License: ~$400/year
• Spirits/Beer/Wine Restaurant License: ~$2,000/year
• Tavern License: ~$1,000/year
• Grocery Store License: ~$150/year
• Banquet Permit: $10/day

Additional costs:

• Application fee: $75-$200
• Renewal fees: Same as license fees
• Training costs for MAST: ~$20-$30 per person

Besides licensing the business, Washington also requires individuals who serve or handle alcohol to complete Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST).

MAST Permit Types:

• Class 13 Permit: Ages 18–21, can carry alcohol but not mix drinks.
• Class 12 Permit: Ages 21+, can mix drinks and supervise alcohol service.

MAST Training Requirements:

• Must be completed within 60 days of hire
• Valid for 5 years (must be retaken after expiration)

MAST training is essential for bartenders, servers, managers, and owners. An easy way to get certified is through Washington State Alcohol Awareness Courses — a convenient, online alcohol training intended for ages 18-21 and 21 up.

Liquor licensing isn’t a quick process — it can take anywhere from 60 to 90 days or more depending on your location and the type of license. Begin the application process at least three months before your intended opening date. This gives you room to handle paperwork, background checks, public notices, and inspections without delaying your grand opening.

There are over 20 different liquor license types in Washington, and applying for the wrong one can result in delays or rejections. Before you apply, read up on what each license allows, especially the difference between on-sale and off-sale, and whether your establishment serves food or not. The WSLCB has a list of available license types — use it to choose wisely.

Your business license isn't enough on its own — every staff member who handles alcohol must have a valid MAST permit. This includes bartenders, servers, managers, and even owners who serve. Make sure employees get certified within 60 days of hire through an approved course. It's one of the easiest ways to avoid compliance violations down the line.

From your business license and liquor application to your staff’s MAST certifications, keep organized digital and paper copies of everything. This will save you time if you’re ever audited, investigated, or need to renew. Bonus: It also helps with smoother onboarding for new staff.

Even though the liquor license is state-issued, your city or county has a say. Local governments review your application for zoning compliance and public safety concerns. They can object to your license if there are violations or complaints in your area. Stay ahead of issues by being proactive: talk with your local officials, neighbors, and business districts. It can make a big difference in getting fast approval.

Getting a Washington liquor license can be a bit of a journey — but with the right plan and by following the steps above, it’s completely doable. From choosing the right license to training your staff, every detail matters when it comes to running a successful, compliant alcohol-serving business.

If you’re hiring or managing staff, don’t forget the MAST permit requirement. Enroll your team in Washington State Alcohol Awareness Courses to stay compliant and confident from day one.

Whether you're opening a cocktail lounge in Seattle or managing a winery in Walla Walla, the steps are the same: get licensed, stay trained, and serve responsibly.