Unlike in some states, where bartenders’ only worry is serving responsibly, in Washington, they must also remember to carry a valid MAST permit with them at all times.
Besides that, working in the hospitality industry can open you up to many rewarding career opportunities, whether you want to focus on it temporarily while studying or pave your way to a bar manager one day.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to become a bartender in Washington State, what requirements you need to fulfill, and what it takes to be a professional bartender.
Legal Requirements to Bartend in Washington
Before we get to the fun part of being a bartender, when it comes to serving and selling alcohol in Washington, there are a few legal requirements you must be aware of:
- Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to serve alcohol and 21 years old to work as a bartender.
- Those who are under 21 can only open beer or wine, carry alcohol to customers, and pour drinks into customers’ glasses at the table.
- Those aged 18 to 21 can take alcohol orders, transport alcohol to the customers, and pour drinks into customers’ glasses at the table.
- Those who are 21 and older can draw alcohol from a tap, mix drinks, and manage the establishment.
- MAST permit: Servers and sellers are required to take a state-approved Master Alcohol Server Training (MAST) course and obtain a permit to handle and serve alcoholic beverages.
- Types of MAST: Depending on your age, you will be required to obtain either a Class 12 or Class 13 MAST permit.
- Class 12 MAST permit: Required for those who are 21 and over serving or selling alcoholic beverages in bars, restaurants, and clubs.
- Class 13 MAST permit: Required for underage servers (18-21) serving alcohol in restaurants, bars, and retail establishments.
Holding a Class 12 or Class 13 MAST permit allows you to work in a licensed establishment, but each one comes with specific limitations on how you can serve and handle alcohol. That’s why it’s important to understand Washington’s state laws and adhere to them responsibly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Bartender in Washington State
Starting a career in bartending can be both fun and rewarding—but like any job in the hospitality industry, it takes preparation, training, and a good dose of personality.
Follow these steps on how to become a bartender in Washington State, and soon you will find yourself running the bar, making money, and meeting people.
Step 1: Meet the Age Requirement
To bartend in Washington, you must be at least 21 years old. However, if you want to start your career earlier, you still can, but with certain limitations.
Due to the state’s regulations, if you’re under 21, you can still work in a bar or restaurant as long as you’re not mixing or pouring drinks.
Step 2: Get Your High School Diploma or GED (Optional but Helpful)
Although it’s not a legal requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or GED. It shows you’re committed and prepared to handle responsibilities.
Step 3: Complete an Accredited MAST Training Course
To legally mix and serve alcohol in Washington, you’ll need to obtain a MAST permit. Don’t choose just any place; make sure to find an accredited training provider, either online or in person.
After completing the course, you will need to take a final exam and receive a physical version of your MAST permit.
Step 4: Consider Bartending School for Extra Skills
Getting a MAST permit makes you eligible to work in any establishment serving alcohol, but mastering your bartending skills can significantly improve your chances of landing the job and standing out from the competition.
While not required by the state, attending a bartending school can give you a competitive edge. Plus, you will learn everything from classic cocktail recipes and pouring techniques to bar management basics.
Step 5: Start Applying for Bartending Jobs
With a MAST permit in hand, you can confidently start looking for a job in the hospitality industry. Consider applying to local bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and even venues – those are great places to start your career.
Make sure to highlight your MAST certification in your resume, along with any relevant training or customer service experience.
Step 6: Keep Your Certification Up to Date
According to the state’s laws, a MAST permit is valid for 5 years. Although it’s a long period, make sure you renew your MAST permit before it expires. This way, you will stay compliant and won’t have to put your career on pause.
MAST Permit: What You Need to Know
As you can see, a MAST certification is the key requirement to becoming a bartender. For both the state and your future employer, it’s important to know that you are aware of and adhere to the regulations taught at MAST training.
What Is the MAST Permit?
Basically, a MAST permit is a license that allows you to serve and sell alcohol in Washington State. According to the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB), MAST training helps protect public health and safety by covering key topics like:
- The physical effects of alcohol
- Legal responsibilities and liabilities
- DUI prevention
- How to safely intervene with intoxicated or problematic customers
Ultimately, MAST is designed to keep both customers and communities safer while promoting responsible alcohol service.
Class 12 vs Class 13 Permits: What’s the Difference
There are two types of permits: Class 12 and Class 13 for people who are either younger or older than 21 years old. Here is a detailed breakdown of both:
| Class 12 Permit | Class 13 Permit | |
 |  | |
| Minimum Age Requirement | 21 years old | 18 years old |
| Who It’s For | Bartenders, mixologists, managers | Servers, hosts, bussers, cashiers |
| Mixing and Pouring | ✅ | ❌ |
| Serve Alcohol | ✅ | ✅ |
| Draw Beer or Pour Wine | ✅ | ✅ |
| Manage Other Servers | ✅ | ✅ |
| Typical Workplaces | Bars, lounges, nightclubs, and restaurants | Restaurants, cafes, retail stores, and events (under supervision) |
| Valid for | 5 years | 5 years |
| Upgrade Option | Already the highest level | Can upgrade to Class 12 at age 21 |
How to get a MAST Permit?
To become a bartender, you will need to apply for Class 12 training. Here’s how to do it:
1. Choose a WSLCB-certified training provider (like ServeSmart!)
Select a course from a Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB)-certified provider. ServeSmart offers convenient online training for future bartenders accessible from any mobile device.
2. Complete the Required Training Course
At ServeSmart, you can access training materials from any place and at any time. You can finish the course in about 3 hours and start getting ready for the final exam.
Our online course allows you to log in and out as needed, saving your progress each time.
3. Pass the Exam
After completing the training, you’ll need to pass an exam to demonstrate your understanding of alcohol laws and responsible service practices. A successful passing score is 80% or higher.
4. Receive Your MAST Permit
Upon successful completion, ServeSmart will provide you with:
- A report confirming you completed MAST training
- A physical version of the MAST permit within 30 days sent via mail
How Much Does It Cost to Get a MAST Permit?
The cost of getting your MAST permit in Washington depends on the type of training. Traditional training providers tend to charge more than online ones. Plus, you should consider the additional costs of purchasing on-site materials and transportation.
With ServeSmart, you can get MAST training for as low as $14.99. It’s fully accessible from home and any mobile device. Thanks to our intuitive platform and input from expert bartenders, we boast a 99% pass rate.
How to Find a Bartending Job in Washington State?
Even with a bartending certificate, you’re not guaranteed a job right away without experience; however, there are many entry-level job opportunities in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and the rest of the state.
Here is how to break into the industry and work your way up:
Gain Experience
It’s okay to start in entry-level jobs such as a server, food runner, or barback. Each of them can help you gain not only experience but also the necessary skills to become a professional bartender.
Working as a server, for example, can build customer service skills, while being a barback will support the bartender by restocking supplies, cleaning, and keeping the bar working smoothly.
Where to Apply
Ideally, you should try looking for a bartending job in high-traffic cities like Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma. All of them have vibrant nightlife, upscale lounges, and plenty of bars and restaurants.
In your city of choice, look for high-volume venues like event venues, hotel bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. These locations often need more staff and are more open to training newcomers.
Plus, you should also keep an eye out for seasonal openings during holidays, summer events, and tourist seasons – those are great chances to get your foot in the door
Work on Your Resume
Walking into a bar and applying in person is a bold move, but it may be unfruitful if your resume is weak. A well-prepared resume can really set you apart, especially if you have little or no experience. Here are a few tips on how to improve your CV:
- Focus on work-related skills like customer service, multitasking, and teamwork
- Highlight any certification you’ve earned (especially your MAST permit)
- Try using third-party tools like Canva to design a clean and organized resume
Tips on How to Succeed as a Bartender
Being a successful bartender involves many factors, including:
Staying Up to Date with Certifications and Regulations
In Washington, it is mandatory to obtain a MAST permit, no matter whether you only open drinks or serve them to customers. Since it’s valid for 5 years, you shouldn’t forget to renew it before it expires.
If you move to another state, you should always check the state’s laws in advance. Your MAST permit will only be valid in Washington.
Level Up Your Bartending Skills
No matter where you work, as a bartender, you need to know the basics. A good tip would be learning the drinks on the menu of your bar and practicing making them at home (if your employer doesn’t provide prior training).
Master the mixing of simple cocktails like Long Island and classic drinks like Dirty Martini. Plus, get ready for customers to ask you for recommendations based on taste, so you should also know what drinks are sweet, sour, or balanced.
Conclusion
Becoming a bartender in Washington is a great way to join a fast-paced, social, and rewarding industry — but it all starts with the right certification.
Whether you’re aiming to work in Seattle’s nightlife, Spokane’s breweries, or Tacoma’s waterfront bars, your first step is getting MAST-certified.
With ServeSmart, you can complete your Mandatory Alcohol Server Training entirely online for just $14.99—no hidden fees, no hassle, and at your own pace. It’s affordable, approved by the WSLCB, and trusted by employers statewide.
FAQ
How much do bartenders make in Seattle?
According to the Indeed employment website, the average salary for a bartender is $22.02 per hour in Seattle, WA, and $225 in tips per day.
How do I upgrade from a Class 13 to a Class 12 MAST permit?
Once you turn 21, you can take a Class 12 training course through a certified provider like ServeSmart. You will need to take the course, pass the final exam, and receive your MAST permit via mail.
Where can I take the MAST permit training in Washington?
You can take the MAST training course online through a WSLCB-certified provider like ServeSmart, which is quick, affordable, and convenient.
Do I need a food handler's permit to work as a bartender in Washington?
It depends on your workplace. If you’re handling food or garnishes, some establishments may require you to obtain a food handler’s permit in addition to MAST certification.
How old do you have to be to bartend in Washington?
You must be at least 21 years old to mix and pour drinks in Washington. This will require you to obtain a Class 12 permit. However, if you’re 18, you can apply for a Class 13 permit, but you will not be allowed to mix and pour alcohol.
