Get Your State-Approved Bartender License – Washington MAST Permit

A lot of aspiring bartenders and current bar staff search for "Washington bartender license" every month, and many may be confused about what’s actually required. The answer? Complete a Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) course from a WSLCB-approved provider and receive your Class 12 permit—it’s that simple.

And for those looking to get certified fast, Certification Experts offers a fully state-approved, online MAST training course for both Class 12 and Class 13 permits:

• Class 12 Alcohol Server Permit (21+)
  
  
• Class 13 Alcohol Server Permit (18–20)

While Washington doesn’t issue a "bartender license" in the traditional sense, the Class 12 MAST Permit serves the same function. Anyone age 21 or older who mixes drinks, serves alcohol, or supervises alcohol service must obtain this permit.

The training is officially called Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST). Once you complete the course and pass the exam through an approved provider, your provider reports your results to the state, and the WSLCB mails your permit.

This system ensures everyone handling alcohol in Washington is trained in responsible service, legal compliance, and public safety.

Trend Insight: The vast majority of Class 12 permits are now earned through online training platforms—especially appealing for working professionals and busy employers.

Both Class 12 and Class 13 permits are issued by the WSLCB after completion of the MAST course. However, the key difference lies in age and permitted duties:

• Class 12 MAST Permit: For individuals 21 and older. Allows all bartending duties including mixing drinks, pouring alcohol, serving patrons, and supervising others.
  
  
• Class 13 MAST Permit: For individuals 18 to 20 years old. Allows serving alcohol at tables or counters, but not mixing drinks or working behind a bar.
  
  

This distinction is critical. If your staff is under 21, they cannot legally bartend, even if they complete the course.

Trend Insight: As more young adults enter the industry, managers must be vigilant in assigning appropriate duties based on permit type.

Getting your Class 12 MAST Permit is simple—but must be done the right way. Here’s how:

1. Choose a WSLCB-Approved Provider Only training programs certified by the WSLCB are legally valid. Certification Experts is a trusted, state-approved provider.
   
   
2. Complete the Online Training Course The course usually takes 3 to 4 hours and covers ID checks, refusal skills, over-service prevention, and state laws.
   
   
3. Pass the Final Exam You must demonstrate knowledge of alcohol service responsibilities. Most courses offer multiple attempts.
   
   
4. Wait for WSLCB to Issue Your Permit Once you pass, your provider submits the results to the WSLCB, who then mails your official permit—usually within 30 days.
   
   

Pro Tip: The state allows a 60-day grace period to work without a permit after being hired—but you must carry your permit once that window closes.

Understanding the Washington State bartender permit process can be tricky. Here are some of the most common obstacles that bartenders and employers run into:

1. Confusing terminology – Many people search for a "bartender license" when in reality, what Washington requires is a MAST permit. The term "Class 12 MAST Permit" specifically applies to bartenders who are 21 and older.
   
   
2. Age-based restrictions – Workers under 21 may complete the same course, but they are only eligible for the Class 13 permit, which does not allow them to mix drinks or perform full bartending duties.
   
   
3. Employer misunderstandings – Some employers aren’t fully aware of the difference between Class 12 and Class 13 permits. This can lead to staff performing duties they’re not legally allowed to do—creating risk and liability.
   
   
4. Grace period misconceptions – Workers often assume they can bartend immediately. However, while there is a 60-day grace period after being hired, full duties can only be performed if the correct permit is held.
   
   
5. Delayed permit delivery – Many workers think the permit is issued instantly. Instead, it is mailed within 30 days after completion and must be carried while working.
   
   
6. Non-approved providers – Not all online courses are created equal. If a provider is not approved by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB), the permit is not valid.
   
   
7. Penalty risks – Employers who allow unpermitted staff to work face potential fines, legal trouble, or suspension of their liquor license.

As the hospitality industry evolves, so does the process of earning a MAST permit. Here are five trends shaping how bartenders in Washington are getting licensed:

1. Online Training Dominance – With a majority of alcohol servers completing their training online, web-based learning has become the go-to solution for bartenders who need speed, flexibility, and mobile access.
   
   
2. Increased Class 13 Permit Enrollments – With more young workers entering hospitality roles, there has been a significant uptick in Class 13 MAST permit enrollments. This trend requires careful oversight from managers and owners.
   
   
3. Compliance Tech – Businesses are adopting dashboards and HR software that track permit status in real time—reducing the risk of accidentally scheduling unqualified employees.
   
   
4. WSLCB Digital Tools – The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board has improved digital access to regulatory resources, including the MAST Permit Checker tool that lets employers and workers verify permit status instantly.

What do I need to bartend legally in Washington?
You need a Class 12 MAST Permit, which is Washington’s version of a bartender license for those 21 and older.

Can I bartend with a Class 13 permit?
No. Class 13 permits are limited to alcohol service—bartending, mixing drinks, or managing others requires a Class 12 permit.

Is the training the same for Class 12 and 13?
Yes. Both permits use the same course and test. Your age at the time of completion determines which permit you’re issued.

How long does it take to receive the permit?
Your training provider will notify the WSLCB once you pass. Expect your permit in the mail within 30 days.

Is online MAST training valid?
Absolutely—if you use a WSLCB-approved provider like the Certification Experts.

Do employers need to track MAST permits?
Yes. Employers are legally responsible for ensuring their staff have the correct, valid permit on file.

Whether you’re a new bartender or managing an entire bar staff, these tips will keep you on the right side of Washington law:

• 📅 Don’t delay. Enroll in your MAST course as soon as you’re hired.
  
  
• 📜 Use only state-approved providers to avoid invalid certification.
  
  
• 📬 Expect your permit by mail, and always carry it at work.
  
  
• 🧾 Employers should track all permits and set renewal reminders.
  
  
• 🧑‍💼 Assign duties based on permit type—don’t let Class 13 holders bartend.
  
  
• 📱 Take a photo of your permit as a digital backup.
  
  
• Trend Highlight: More bar owners now use compliance dashboards and HR integrations to monitor staff certification status in real time.

If you want to be a bartender in Washington, the path is simple: take a state-approved MAST course, pass the exam, and get your Class 12 permit. This isn’t just a hoop to jump through—it’s a legal requirement and a professional credential that shows you’re trained, prepared, and serious about responsible service.

For business owners and managers, making sure your staff is properly certified is key to avoiding legal trouble and building a safe, compliant team.

Get started today with Certification Experts:

• Class 12 MAST Permit (21+)
• Class 13 Permit (18–20)

Get trained. Get certified. Get hired fast.