MAST Permit: Get Your State-Approved Alcohol Server Permit in Washington

Washington law requires that anyone who serves, mixes, or sells alcohol for on-premises consumption must complete a Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) course and obtain the corresponding permit. And with thousands of people looking for a MAST permit in Washington, it’s clear this requirement affects workers and business owners across the state.

But don’t worry—this guide breaks it all down for you.

You’ll learn:

• What the MAST permit is
  
  
• The difference between Class 12 and Class 13
  
  
• Who needs it, how to get it, and what happens if you don’t
  
  
• Why this legal training isn’t just a hoop to jump through—but a way to protect your job, your business, and your customers
  
  

If you’re in the alcohol industry in Washington, your career or company could depend on getting this right. The good news? You can complete your state-approved training with the Certification Experts Class 12 or Class 13 courses—online, fast, and fully compliant.

The MAST permit—short for Mandatory Alcohol Server Training—is a legal requirement enforced by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB). Anyone who serves, mixes, or sells alcohol for on-premises consumption must complete a state-approved training program.

This requirement was designed to reduce alcohol-related harm by ensuring every alcohol server in the state understands:

• Washington’s alcohol laws
  
  
• The risks of overserving
  
  
• How to spot fake IDs
  
  
• Techniques to refuse service legally

Helpful Tip: The WSLCB has recently updated digital workflows and launched tools like the MAST Permit Checker to modernize compliance.

Permit Type	Age Requirement	What You Can Do
Class 12	21 and over	Bartend, pour, mix, manage alcohol service
Class 13	18 to 20	Serve, open, pour at tables—but NOT mix or draw

Helpful Tip: With more young adults entering hospitality, Class 13 permits are in higher demand than ever. Hiring managers should clarify this distinction during onboarding.

Not all training programs are valid. You must complete a course from a state-approved third-party provider, such as the Certification Experts.

Trend Nowadays: Over 80% of alcohol server training in Washington is now completed online. Digital courses are ideal for busy workers and high-turnover environments.

• Duration: 3–4 hours
  
  
• Topics: WA alcohol laws, ID verification, refusal skills, liability

You must score high enough to pass the test to qualify for your permit.

• Sent by mail within 30 days of passing
  
  
• Keep it with you when working (digital backup recommended)

The MAST permit is valid statewide and must be renewed every 5 years.

Here are some common questions around working with alcohol in Washington State:

What permit do I need to serve alcohol in Washington?

To legally serve, mix, or sell alcohol in Washington State, you need a MAST permit—either a Class 12 or Class 13, depending on your age. Class 12 is for those 21 and over, while Class 13 is for 18–20-year-olds.

Can I start working before I receive my MAST permit?

You may begin working during the 60-day grace period after being hired, but once that period ends, you must carry your official permit while working. Employers are responsible for ensuring compliance, so don’t delay your training.

What’s the difference between the MAST permit and alcohol certification?

The terms can be confusing. In Washington, alcohol certification refers to the completion of the MAST training course, while the permit is the legal document issued after you pass the course and exam. You must complete the training to receive the permit.

Who issues the actual permit—my training provider or the state?

The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) is the official issuer. Once you complete training through a state-approved provider, they report your results to the WSLCB, who then mails your permit to you.

Is the MAST permit required for bartenders and alcohol servers?

Yes—absolutely everyone who serves, sells, or supervises alcohol service in on-premise settings must have a valid MAST permit. This includes bartenders, waitstaff, managers, and even some clerks in certain businesses.

Hiring staff without valid permits can result in:

• Fines
  
  
• License suspension
  
  
• Business shutdowns

As a business owner or manager, you must:

• Verify permit status using the WSLCB Checker
  
  
• Keep track of staff training schedules and permit renewals
  
  
• Use internal dashboards or spreadsheets to avoid lapses

Trend Nowadays: Many employers now use compliance dashboards or onboarding systems to automate training and prevent violations.

Whether you’re a first-time server or a seasoned bar manager, staying compliant with Washington’s alcohol laws doesn’t have to be complicated. These quick, actionable tips will help you avoid common mistakes, support your team, and make sure everyone—from the host to the head bartender—is operating within the law.

• 📝 Enroll early—don’t wait for the 60-day window to expire
  
  
• 🔐 Choose only WSLCB-approved courses
  
  
• 📱 Photograph your permit for digital backup
  
  
• 🧾 Check employee status proactively if you’re a manager
  
  
• 🔄 Remember the 5-year renewal timeline
  
  
• 📋 Don’t mix roles—under 21 with a Class 13 permit cannot bartend
  
  
• 📬 Expect your permit by mail within 30 days

Whether you're a server, bartender, or business owner, the MAST permit is your ticket to legal, safe, and confident alcohol service in Washington State.

You can’t serve without it. You can’t hire without it. But thanks to trusted providers like Certification Experts, it’s easier than ever to get certified.

Check out our two fast, state-approved online courses:

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

Get trained. Get your permit. And get back to doing what you love—safely and legally.