MANDATORY ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING (MAST)

The 1995 Legislature passed a law requiring Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) for managers, bartenders and anyone who serves alcohol on-premises.

If you serve alcohol or supervise the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption in the State of Washington:

  • You will need a MAST permit.
    • Everyone who serves or sells alcohol is required to get the appropriate permit within 60 days of hire.

At the end of that time period, working without the required permit can result in the issuance of a criminal citation.

 MAST logo

How do I obtain a MAST permit?

  • Permits are issued by the trainer or program provider upon successful completion of a private, certified alcohol server training program. The method of delivery of the permit is up to the trainer. Provided the tests can be graded at the site, the trainer could issue the permits at the completion of the server course. However, some trainers are grading the test at another site and the permits are then mailed to the student within 30 days, as allowed for by rule.

  • Click here to watch our "LAST CALL" video for alcohol sellers and servers.

MAST permits are issued by private MAST trainers and providers.

For a list of class schedules near you click here.
At this time, there are no board certified on-line programs.

 

MAST FAQ's

Below is a list of the most frequently asked questions (FAQ's) regarding the MAST permit. Please take a moment to review the list to find answers to common questions.

  1. What are MAST permits?
  2. How do I upgrade a Class 13 permit to Class 12?
  3. How long is a MAST permit good for?
  4. How do I renew a MAST permit?
  5. How much does it cost to get a MAST permit?
  6. Other quick and useful tips I should know about the course and MAST permit.
  7. Can I check to see if my MAST permit is still valid?
  8. How do I replace a lost MAST permit?
  9. What is the Liquor Control Boards role in MAST?
  10. How to become a MAST Trainer
  11. MAST brochure: English, Korean, Spanish
  12. Contact information for MAST Coordinator




  1. What are MAST permits?

    There are two types of permits:
    • Class 12 Mixologist Permit - For managers, bartenders and anyone who draws alcohol from a tap, mixes drinks with alcohol and is at least 21 years old. Class 12 permit holders are also authorized to perform duties included in the Class 13 permit. Every licensed business where spirits, beer and wine are consumed on the premises must have at least one Class 12 permit holder on duty.

    • Class 13 Servers Permit - For servers and ID checkers who are at least 18 years old that carry alcohol to the customer or open beer or wine and pour it into a customers glass at the customers table. Class 13 permit holders cannot mix drinks or draw beer or wine from a tap.

      Permits are issued upon successful completion of a private, certified alcohol server training program.

      sample of Class 13 Servers Permit
      (sample of Class 13 Servers Permit)

      sample of Class 12- Mixologist Permit
      (sample of Class 12- Mixologist Permit)

  2. How do I upgrade a Class 13 permit to Class 12?
    If you hold a Class 13 permit, once you turn 21, you may upgrade your permit to Class 12. In order to upgrade your permit, you must contact your trainer or a provider. If you need help locating your trainer, call the Liquor Control Board.

  3. How long is the MAST permit good for?
    The permits are good for five years from the date of class. For example, if you took the class on Jan 5, 2005, your permit will expire on Feb 1, 2010.

  4. How do I renew a MAST permit?
    To renew your permit, you must take the class again prior to the expiration date.

  5. How much does it cost to get a MAST Permit?
    LCB does not schedule or regulate the cost of classes. Our understanding is that most independent trainers charge $30 to $45.

  6. What other information should I know about the course and MAST permit?

    • Keep a receipt and write down the training date, name, and phone number of your trainer.

    • You may be eligible to upgrade from a Class 13 permit to a Class 12 permit once you turn 21 years old. Just contact your trainer.

    • State law requires the trainer to issue permits to individuals within 30 days of taking the class. If you do not get your permit within 30 days of your class, contact the trainer. If you still do not receive your permit, contact the Boards MAST coordinator at 360-664-1727.

    • The permit is the servers property, not the employers and must be presented with supporting ID when requested by liquor agents or law enforcement officers.


  7. Can I check to see if my MAST permit is still valid?
    Yes. Click on MAST permit checker to access the data base. Please check the MAST permit checker for permit number before submitting form.

  8. How do I replace a lost MAST permit?
    If you lose your permit, complete the affidavit below and mail it with a $5.00 fee to the MAST coordinator at Liquor Control Board. You should receive your new permit within two weeks. You can also contact your provider or a trainer. Affidavit of Lost or Replacement Mixologist/Server Permit *$5 fee required

  9. What is the Liquor Control Boards role in MAST?

    • Board staff review and approve training programs and Providers.

    • The Board tracks Trainers who give approved Provider programs.

    • The Board sets minimum curriculum standards.

    • Board staff tracks all Permits that have been issued.

  10. How to become a MAST trainer?
    While the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB) certifies Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) programs and trainers, WSLCB does not hire or employ trainers. If you are interested in becoming a MAST trainer you must first select a provider. If you don’t have a provider in mind already, your first step would be to find a provider. A provider is a private training entity with a WSLCB certified MAST program. A list of active providers is available at www.liq.wa.gov under Mandatory Alcohol Server Training, Class Schedules tap.

    Even though minimum curriculum requirements for MAST program are the same, not all providers operate the same way. You should contact several providers before selecting one.

    Once you select a provider, they will supply you with the necessary forms for WSLCB trainer certification. You should complete the forms and send them back to your provider. Your provider will submit them to WSLCB. You must receive WSLCB certification prior to conducting any classes.

    WSLCB requires the following for trainer certification

    • Have a minimum of two years of post-secondary education in one or more of the following fields or a combination of the following fields, or equivalent years of experience: Training; Education; Law; Law enforcement; Substance abuse rehabilitation; and/or Hospitality industry.

    • Hold a Class 12 permit

    • Meet the criminal history requirements outlined in 314-17-070.

    • Complete a WSLCB provided briefing (provided in CD)

    Submit completed Trainer Registration, Acknowledgment of Understanding and MAST Trainer Briefing. Again, your provider will supply you with these forms.

  11. MAST brochure is available in the following languages:

  12. To contact the MAST Coordinator Call (360) 664-1727 or email