Washington MAST – Mandatory Alcohol Server Training

Washington requires all employees who serve, sell, mix, or supervise the sale of alcohol to complete a state-approved MAST training course and obtain an official MAST permit. This requirement applies to bartenders, servers, clerks, tasting-room staff, managers, and anyone who checks identification.

All employees must obtain their permit within 60 days of hire. Washington issues two different permit types depending on age and job duties:

• Class 12 Permit – For ages 21+; required to mix, pour, and serve spirits, wine, or beer.
• Class 13 Permit – For ages 18–20; allows serving only beer and wine in certain roles.

All Washington MAST permits are valid for 5 years, making it one of the longest renewal cycles in the United States.

Steps to Be Compliant in Washington:

1. Complete a Washington State Liquor & Cannabis Board (LCB)-approved MAST course:
   Training covers Washington alcohol laws, ID verification, intoxication indicators, refusal techniques, and safe-service requirements.
2. Pass the course exam:
   Upon completion, the provider issues the appropriate Class 12 or Class 13 permit.
3. Obtain the official MAST permit within 60 days of hire:
   Employees must have a valid permit on-site and available for inspection.
4. Renew every 5 years:
   To continue working legally, individuals must complete a new course before their permit expires.

Program Benefits:

1. Mandatory Statewide Compliance
Washington requires MAST permits for all alcohol servers, reducing risk and ensuring consistent legal compliance across the industry.

2. Lower Risk & Fewer Violations
Training helps employees prevent sales to minors, avoid over-service, properly check IDs, and identify intoxication — reducing violations and liability.

3. Clear Permit Structure (Class 12 & Class 13)
The two-tier permit system provides clarity for employers and employees based on age and job duties.

4. Long 5-Year Certification
One of the longest renewal cycles nationwide, lowering training frequency and cost.

5. Statewide Standardization
All approved providers follow the same LCB curriculum, ensuring consistent instruction.

Additional Program: Washington Responsible Vendor Program (RVP)

Washington also offers a voluntary Responsible Vendor Program (RVP) for retailers. While separate from MAST, RVP helps businesses adopt stronger ID-checking practices, develop written policies, self-monitor compliance, and reduce the likelihood of violations.

The program is free, encourages best practices, and may positively influence violation assessments if proper policies and training are documented.