As a server of alcohol in Washington State, obtaining a Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permit is not just a legal requirement but a testament to your commitment towards the safe and responsible serving of alcohol. Let’s delve into the details of what this entails.
Key Takeaways
- The MAST permit: A Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permit is a legal requirement for anyone who serves, sells, or handles alcohol in Washington State.
- Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Course: This course is crucial for obtaining a MAST permit and provides the knowledge and skills needed to serve alcohol responsibly.
- Types of MAST permits: In Washington State, there are two types of permits – the Class 12 Mixologist Permit and the Class 13 Server’s Permit.
Washington Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Course Approval
Understanding the Washington Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Course is a critical first step towards obtaining your MAST (Mandatory Alcohol Server Training) permit.
What is the Washington Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Course?
The Washington Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Course is a training program designed to meet the requirements of the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) to equip you with the knowledge and skills to serve alcohol responsibly. It covers everything from identifying fake IDs to recognising signs of intoxication.
Do You Need a Bartender License in Washington State?
Washington State does not issue a separate bartender license. Instead, anyone who wants to mix and serve alcoholic beverages as a bartender must obtain a Class 12 Mixologist Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) Permit. This permit is the state-recognised credential that authorises you to prepare mixed drinks, pour spirits, and perform bartending duties in licensed establishments.
How to Become a Bartender in Washington State
Getting qualified to bartend in Washington is straightforward:
- Complete a Washington State-approved MAST course. Enrol in a training program approved by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) that covers responsible alcohol service, state liquor laws, and identifying intoxicated or underage customers.
- Pass the required exam. After finishing the course, you’ll take a short test to demonstrate your understanding of Washington’s alcohol service regulations.
- Receive your Class 12 Mixologist MAST Permit. Once you pass, you’ll be issued your permit, allowing you to legally mix and serve alcoholic beverages and perform bartending duties in Washington State.
With your Class 12 MAST Permit in hand, you’ll meet the state’s legal requirement to work as a bartender and can begin applying for positions at bars, restaurants, hotels, casinos, and other licensed venues.
Legal Requirements
Navigating the legal landscape of alcohol service can be complex. However, it’s essential to understand that state law and the Liquor and Cannabis Board require this training for all alcohol servers, including those becoming bartenders.
The Importance of Adherence
Complying with these laws is not just about avoiding legal consequences. It’s about ensuring your patrons’ welfare and your establishment’s reputation.
What is a MAST permit?
In Washington State, two types of Mandatory Alcohol Server Training permits cater to different roles within the alcohol sales and service industry.
Class 12 Mixologist Permit
A Class 12 Mixologist Permit is an alcohol server permit reserved for those at least 21 years old. It allows them to make alcoholic beverages, draw alcohol from a tap and mix drinks for on-premises consumption.
Class 13 Server’s Permit
A Class 13 Permit is for individuals at least 18 years old and allows them to take alcohol orders, carry drinks and pour drinks into a customer’s glass at the customer’s table but not pour alcoholic mixed drinks.
Class 12 vs. Class 13 MAST Permit: Key Differences & Upgrades
| Feature | Class 12 Mixologist Permit | Class 13 Server’s Permit |
| Minimum Age | 21 years old | 18 to 20 years old |
| Allowed Duties | Mix drinks, draw tap beer, manage bar area, take orders | Take orders, carry drinks, pour wine/beer at customer tables |
| Restrictions | None within licensed premises | Cannot pour spirits or mix drinks |
| Automatic Upgrade | N/A | Automatically upgrades to Class 12 upon turning 21 |
Who needs a MAST permit?
A Washington MAST alcohol permit allows you to do alcohol tastings with the proper official MAST permit, with requirements for staff.
- Events requiring a permit:
- Most people in the industry work for an establishment that carries an On-Premises Liquor License. Alcohol servers must obtain a MAST Permit within 60 days of their initial hire.
- Tasting Room: A brewery, winery, or distillery can conduct alcohol tastings with a liquor license and can add this endorsement to serve alcohol at another location. Staff must obtain a MAST Permit within 60 days of hire.
- Liquor Cater: A restaurant with a liquor license can add this endorsement to serve alcohol at offsite events that it is hired to cater. Staff are required to obtain a MAST Permit within 60 days of hire.
- Grocery Store Beer/Wine Tasting (Liquor License): Individuals conducting an alcohol tasting must be able to present a permit. There is no grace period.
- Sports Entertainment Facility (Liquor License): Venues that host music festivals, like the Gorge Amphitheatre in Quincy, Washington, carry this license. Staff must obtain a MAST Permit within 60 days of hire.
- Don’t require a permit:
- Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) issues temporary liquor licenses for events where permits aren’t legally required but recommended.
- A Special Occasion License for organisations allows them to sell liquor at a specific time, date, and place.
- A Banquet Permit is typically issued for the consumption of liquor at a private, invitation-only gathering held at a public place or business.
How to Take the Washington MAST Permit Test Online
The Washington MAST Permit course can be completed entirely online through a Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB)-certified training provider. Most online courses take about three hours to finish and are self-paced, allowing you to complete the training whenever it fits your schedule.
The course typically includes a combination of videos, narrated presentations, and interactive slides that explain Washington’s alcohol laws, responsible serving practices, and how to handle difficult situations. Once you’ve completed the training, you’ll take the required online exam immediately.
After you pass, the training provider—not the student—is responsible for issuing your official MAST permit card. You cannot simply print your permit at home; instead, the provider prepares your official permit and mails it to you in accordance with Washington State requirements.
A list of bartending schools in Washington State is available here.
What to Expect on the Washington MAST Exam (Passing & Retakes)
The Washington MAST exam is a multiple-choice test designed to confirm that you understand the state’s responsible alcohol service laws and best practices.
Questions cover topics such as Washington liquor regulations, checking identification to prevent underage sales, recognising the signs of visible intoxication, refusing service when required, and understanding your legal responsibilities as an alcohol server.
To earn your permit, you’ll typically need to achieve a minimum passing score of 80%. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, there’s usually no need to worry. Most WSLCB-approved online training providers allow you to retake the exam immediately at no additional cost until you achieve a passing score, making it easy to review the material and try again.
MAST Permit Renewal, Lost Cards, and Status Verification
A Washington MAST Permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. Before it expires, you’ll need to complete a new WSLCB-approved MAST training course and pass the exam again to renew your permit. Washington does not offer a “test-only” renewal option, so every renewal requires completing the full training.
If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can usually request a replacement card from the WSLCB-certified training provider that originally issued it. If you’re unsure which provider you used or need to verify your permit information, you can also search for your permit number and status through the official Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) MAST permit database.
Keeping your permit current and replacing it promptly if it’s lost helps ensure you remain eligible to work anywhere alcohol is served in Washington.
Techniques for Providing a Safe Environment for Your Customers
Being a responsible server of alcohol goes beyond understanding the laws and obtaining the necessary permits.
Identifying Risks
One of the first steps to creating a safe environment is identifying potential risks, including patrons who may be prone to excessive drinking or becoming intoxicated and underage customers or individuals attempting to purchase alcohol.
Safety Measures
With potential risks identified, it’s crucial to implement measures to avoid irresponsible alcohol service, such as refusing service to intoxicated individuals and checking IDs diligently.
Preventing Drunk Driving Through Education
Education plays a crucial role in preventing drunk driving. Here are some effective strategies:
Know Your Audience
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to drunk driving prevention education. For instance, talking to teenagers about the dangers of drunk driving might involve visual and simulation modules. For adults, dialogue about responsible alcohol use may be more appropriate.
Interaction
Interactive activities can enhance an alcohol education program. Tools such as the Fatal Vision® Alcohol Impairment Goggles can provide a realistic sensation of impairment’s personal and mental effects.
Engagement
Simulating real-life situations can provide a sobering reality check. Experiences like simulated crashes can create lasting impressions that may deter individuals from drunk driving.
