If you work with alcohol in Washington State — whether you’re pouring pints in Seattle, managing a tasting room in Woodinville, or serving wine at a Walla Walla bistro — you need a MAST permit. But what exactly is the MAST program, and how do you get certified?
This guide covers everything you need to know: what MAST stands for, who needs a permit, what the training covers, how much it costs, and how to get certified online today.
TL;DR: MAST stands for Mandatory Alcohol Server Training. It’s a Washington State program regulated by the WSLCB that requires anyone who serves, sells, mixes, or supervises alcohol at licensed premises to complete a certified training course and carry a valid Class 12 or Class 13 permit. The permit is valid for 5 years, costs $10-$30 online, and you can complete the entire course from home in about 3 hours.
What Is MAST?
MAST stands for Mandatory Alcohol Server Training, and it’s Washington State’s required education and certification program for anyone who handles alcohol at a licensed establishment. The program is administered and regulated by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) under WAC Chapter 314-17.
The WSLCB doesn’t offer the training directly. Instead, they certify third-party providers — like Dash Authority — to deliver the course and issue permits. When you complete an approved course and pass the exam, your provider reports your results to the WSLCB and mails you an official permit card.
The purpose of the program is straightforward: educate alcohol servers on responsible service practices to protect public safety. The training covers everything from recognizing signs of intoxication to understanding Washington’s specific liquor laws and liability rules.
The Washington State Legislature established the MAST program because, as stated in RCW 66.20.300, “education of alcohol servers on issues such as the physiological effects of alcohol on consumers, liability and legal implications of serving alcohol…are important in protecting the health and safety of the public.”
Who Needs a MAST Permit in Washington?
Anyone who serves, sells, mixes, manages, or supervises the sale of alcohol at a licensed on-premises establishment in Washington State needs a MAST permit. This requirement is broader than most people realize.
You need a MAST permit if you’re a:
- Bartender or mixologist — mixing or pouring drinks at any bar or restaurant
- Server or waitstaff — taking alcohol orders and delivering drinks to tables
- Restaurant or bar manager — supervising staff who serve alcohol
- Grocery store employee — filling growlers or handling alcohol at tasting events
- Tasting room staff — pouring samples at wineries, breweries, or distilleries
- Event staff — serving alcohol at catered events, pop-ups, or farmers markets
- Liquor store employee — selling alcohol at off-premises retail locations with tasting events
- Business owner or licensee — if you manage the retail floor space of a licensed establishment
This applies whether you work full-time, part-time, or even as a volunteer at a licensed premises. The rule is simple: if alcohol passes through your hands at work, you need the permit.
For a detailed breakdown of which permit type you need based on your age and job duties, check out our guide on Class 12 vs. Class 13 MAST permits.
What Does the MAST Course Cover?
The MAST course covers six core modules designed to prepare you for responsible alcohol service in Washington State. The curriculum is standardized by the WSLCB, so every approved provider teaches the same essential material.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Module 1: MAST Program Overview
An introduction to the WSLCB, why MAST exists, and your legal obligations as a permit holder in Washington.
Module 2: Alcohol and Its Effects on the Body
How alcohol is absorbed and metabolized, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) factors, and how different variables (weight, food intake, medications) affect intoxication levels.
Module 3: Minors and Checking ID
How to spot fake IDs, acceptable forms of identification in Washington, and the legal consequences of serving alcohol to minors. This module is critical — selling to a minor can result in fines up to $5,000 for the establishment.
Module 4: Apparently Intoxicated Persons (AIP)
Recognizing the signs of intoxication (slurred speech, impaired motor function, aggressive behavior) and de-escalation techniques for refusing service safely and professionally.
Module 5: Liability and Legal Consequences
Washington’s dram shop laws, personal liability for servers, and how proper training protects both you and your employer from lawsuits.
Module 6: Washington Alcohol Laws and Regulations
State-specific rules under WAC 314-11, including legal sale hours (6 a.m. to 2 a.m.), open container laws, and permit possession requirements.
The course takes a minimum of 3 hours to complete (required by the WSLCB), and you finish with a 40-question final exam. You need a score of 80% or higher to pass. Most providers, including Dash Authority, offer multiple attempts if you don’t pass on your first try.
How Much Does a MAST Permit Cost?
Online MAST courses typically cost between $10 and $30, depending on the provider. This single fee covers the training, the exam, reporting your results to the WSLCB, and mailing your official permit card — there’s no separate state fee.
In-person classes can run $25-$40 and require you to attend at a specific time and location. Online courses offer the same WSLCB-approved certification with the flexibility to study at your own pace from anywhere.
When choosing a provider, always verify they’re officially approved by the WSLCB. An unapproved course won’t result in a valid permit. For help choosing, see our guide on the top MAST providers in Washington.
Ready to get started? Dash Authority’s online MAST course is WSLCB-approved, fully online, and lets you earn your permit from your couch.
How Long Is a MAST Permit Valid?
Your MAST permit is valid for exactly 5 years. The expiration date is set to the first day of the month following the month you passed your exam. For example, if you complete your course on March 15, 2026, your permit expires on April 1, 2031.
There are two important details most people miss:
- There is no grace period. If your permit expires on April 1, you cannot legally serve alcohol on April 1 without a new permit. Plan ahead.
- The WSLCB recommends retaking the course at least 45 days before your permit expires to ensure you have a new valid permit before the old one lapses.
You can check your current permit status using the WSLCB MAST Permit Checker.
How Do You Renew Your MAST Permit?
To renew, you must retake a full WSLCB-approved MAST course and pass the exam again. There’s no shortcut, no renewal form, and no way to extend your existing permit. The WSLCB treats renewal the same as getting a brand-new permit.
Here’s your renewal checklist:
- Start 45-60 days before expiration — this gives you a comfortable buffer
- Complete any WSLCB-approved course — you don’t have to use the same provider as last time
- Pass the exam with 80% or higher
- Receive your new permit by mail — providers have up to 30 days to mail it, but most ship within 1-2 weeks
If you originally got a Class 13 permit and have since turned 21, you’ll be issued a Class 12 permit upon renewal — no extra steps needed.
Need to renew? Get recertified with Dash Authority’s online course — you can knock it out in a single afternoon.
What Is the Difference Between Class 12 and Class 13 Permits?
The difference comes down to your age: Class 12 is for workers 21 and older, and Class 13 is for workers aged 18-20. You don’t choose which permit you get — the WSLCB assigns it based on your date of birth.
Here’s the quick comparison:
| Class 12 (Mixologist) | Class 13 (Server) | |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 21 and older | 18-20 |
| Take orders and deliver drinks | Yes | Yes |
| Open/pour beer or wine at the table | Yes | Yes |
| Mix cocktails and pour spirits | Yes | No |
| Draw from taps | Yes | No |
| Manage a licensed establishment | Yes | No |
| Conduct alcohol tastings | Yes | No |
Turning 21 with a Class 13? You can upgrade to a Class 12 without retaking the full course — just contact the provider who issued your original permit.
For a deeper dive, read our complete guide: Class 12 vs. Class 13 MAST Permits: Which One Do You Need?
What Is the 60-Day Window for New Hires?
New employees have 60 days from their date of hire to complete MAST training and obtain their permit. During this 60-day window, you can legally work and serve alcohol while you complete your certification, as per WAC Chapter 314-17.
But don’t wait until day 59. Here’s why:
- Your course provider has up to 30 days to mail your physical permit card after you pass
- You’re required to have the physical permit on the licensed premises while working (per WAC 314-17-025)
- If you serve alcohol on day 61 without a valid permit, the consequences are severe for both you and your employer
Our advice: Complete your MAST training during your first week on the job. It takes about 3 hours online, and you’ll have peace of mind for the next 5 years.
For the full breakdown of the 60-day rule — including what happens on day 61 — read our detailed post: From Hire to Certified: The 60-Day Window to Get Your MAST Permit.
What Are the Penalties for Not Having a MAST Permit?
Working without a valid MAST permit in Washington is a criminal offense under RCW 66.20.310. The penalties apply to both the individual worker and the employer who allows it.
For the employee:
– Criminal citation
– Fines up to $500
– Up to 90 days in jail
– 5-day permit suspension for a first violation under WAC 314-17-105
For the employer:
– Monetary fines from the WSLCB
– Possible liquor license suspension or revocation
– Civil liability if an incident occurs while an uncertified employee is serving
Repeat violations escalate quickly — a fourth violation within three years results in permanent permit revocation. The WSLCB also requires that your permit and a valid ID be available for inspection at all times while you’re on duty. Failure to produce them upon request is itself a citable violation.
The bottom line: the cost of a MAST course is a fraction of the cost of a single penalty. Don’t risk it.
Get Your MAST Permit Today
Getting your Washington MAST permit doesn’t have to be complicated. With Dash Authority’s online course, you can complete your WSLCB-approved training in about 3 hours, pass the exam, and have your official permit card mailed directly to you — all without leaving home.
Whether you’re a new hire starting your first restaurant job, a seasoned bartender renewing your certification, or a manager making sure your team is compliant, getting certified online is the fastest and most flexible option.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Washington MAST Program
Can I serve alcohol in Washington without a MAST permit?
Only during your first 60 days of employment. Washington law gives new hires a 60-day grace period to complete MAST training. After that, serving without a valid permit is a criminal offense that can result in fines up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail under RCW 66.20.310.
How long does the MAST course take?
The WSLCB requires a minimum of 3 hours for all approved MAST courses. Most online providers, including Dash Authority, let you work at your own pace — you can log out and pick up where you left off. Many students finish in a single sitting.
Is the MAST permit valid in other states?
No. The Washington MAST permit is only valid in Washington State. If you move to another state like Oregon or California, you’ll need to complete that state’s specific alcohol server training program. Each state has its own requirements and certifying authority.
What happens if my MAST permit expires?
You cannot legally serve alcohol with an expired permit — there is no grace period for renewals. You must retake a full WSLCB-approved course and pass the exam to receive a new permit. The WSLCB recommends starting the renewal process at least 45 days before your expiration date.
Can I get my MAST permit online?
Yes. The WSLCB approves both online and in-person training providers. Online courses like Dash Authority’s MAST training are 100% digital — registration, coursework, and the final exam are all completed online. Your physical permit card is mailed to you after passing.
Do I need a MAST permit to work at a brewery?
Yes, if your duties involve serving, selling, or pouring alcohol for on-premises consumption or conducting tastings. This includes brewery taproom staff, tasting room pourers, and anyone supervising alcohol service. The permit type (Class 12 or Class 13) depends on your age.
