A summary of laws relevant to our industry enacted in 2025

Summaries of new laws enacted in 2025 related to cannabis, alcohol, tobacco and vapor products are now available.

2025 Legislative Fact Sheets

House Bill 1698, MAST permits now required for non-retail establishments

  • On July 27, 2025, House Bill 1698 goes into effect, changing the rules on who needs to get a MAST permit.
  • Before the updated law, WAC 314-17-015 required MAST permits for anyone who serves, mixes, sells, and supervises the sale of alcohol at a licensed retail location.
  • As of July 27, 2025 MAST permits will be required for those who perform the tasks listed above at all on-premises, consumption licensed locations. This removes the distinction between “retail” and “non-retail” licensees.

MAST training and MAST Permits

Washington State is one of the few states in the United States that requires mandatory alcohol server training (MAST) for those who work as servers and bartenders. The objective of this requirement is to ensure that those who are serving alcohol in licensed establishments receive proper training on the responsible service of alcohol, including the identification of minors and the prevention of over-serving alcohol to customers.

The state of Washington requires that all servers and bartenders who handle alcohol must complete MAST training and obtain a permit before they can work in a licensed establishment. This training is mandatory and must be refreshed every five years to remain employed in the industry.

The MAST permit is obtained by successfully completing the Alcohol Server Training Course, which is administered and approved by the State Liquor and Cannabis Board of Washington. The course is offered both online and in-person classes, and the cost varies depending on the provider and the format in which the course is being offered.

For those who prefer an in-person course, the Board offers a list of approved training providers on their website, which can be sorted by location to find a course near the individual. It is essential to note that some courses may require pre-registration, so it’s vital to check with the provider before attending a course.

If an online course is preferred, the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board website also provides a list of approved online training providers for the MAST course. It is recommended to research the provider before selecting a course to ensure that it is approved by the Board.

Upon completion of the course, the student is provided with certification, which is required to obtain the MAST permit. The permit can be applied for online or through a paper application, which can be submitted to the Board. The permit is valid for five years, after which time the individual must complete the training again and obtain a new permit.

It is essential to note that the MAST permit is not transferable, meaning that if a person changes employers or works at a different location, a new permit must be obtained. Additionally, the permit is only valid for serving alcohol in Washington State and cannot be used in other states.

In conclusion, obtaining a MAST permit in Washington State is a straightforward process that requires completing an approved Alcohol Server Training Course, receiving certification, and submitting an application to the Liquor and Cannabis Board. While the training is mandatory, it provides invaluable knowledge for those who are serving alcohol in licensed establishments and helps ensure the safety of customers and the responsible service of alcohol. It’s worth noting that not obtaining a MAST permit when required may result in disciplinary actions or fines from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.Washington State has strict laws designed to regulate the sale and serving of alcohol, which means that all professional servers and bartenders must obtain a Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permit before they are legally allowed to serve alcohol. This training is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to responsibly serve alcohol to their customers.

If you are a resident of Washington State and are looking to obtain your MAST permit, there are specific steps you will need to follow.

The first step in obtaining your MAST permit is to find a state-approved training provider. There are a variety of different training providers located throughout the state, so it is essential to research the options available to you and choose one that is reputable and certified.

Once you have found a training provider that meets your needs, you will need to enroll in the MAST training course. This training typically consists of several hours of instruction, and it covers a variety of subjects related to serving alcohol, including how to identify intoxication, recognizing when to cut off a customer, and how to deal with difficult situations that may arise.

After completing the training course, you will need to take an exam to demonstrate your knowledge of the material covered in the training. This exam is typically multiple choice and is designed to test your understanding of the laws and regulations related to alcohol service in Washington State.

If you pass the exam, you will then receive your MAST permit, which will allow you to legally serve alcohol in the state. However, it is essential to note that your MAST permit is only valid for five years, and you will need to take a refresher course and pass another exam to renew your permit when it expires.

In addition to the MAST permit, some servers and bartenders may also need to obtain a separate Class 12 permit to serve beer and wine in certain establishments, such as grocery stores or convenience stores.

In conclusion, obtaining a MAST permit in Washington State is a crucial step for servers and bartenders who wish to legally serve alcohol. By finding a state-approved training provider, enrolling in the MAST training course, passing the exam, and obtaining your permit, you can demonstrate your commitment to responsible alcohol service and ensure that you are following all of the laws and regulations related to serving alcohol in Washington State.In Washington State, serving alcohol comes with significant legal responsibility, and it is therefore mandatory for all alcohol servers and bartenders to obtain a Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permit. This permit ensures that individuals are adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills required to serve alcohol responsibly. Obtaining a MAST permit can be done following a few easy steps, as outlined in this essay.

To begin with, servers and bartenders who wish to acquire a MAST permit can do so by taking a state-approved class. Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) has approved numerous course providers across the state who offer MAST classrooms, online classes, and even self-paced study guides, which take an average of around 3-4 hours to complete. The courses cover a wide range of topics such as state and local laws, customer service, recognized signs of intoxication, and strategies for preventing peer pressure and underage drinking.

Upon completion of the MAST course, servers and bartenders must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of alcohol serving laws and procedures. The exam typically comprises 40-60 questions, and one must achieve a minimum of 80% to obtain a passing score. Most course providers offer online exams, which are taken immediately after completing the course, and the results are available immediately. If one passes the exam, they will then get the MAST permit.

A MAST permit is valid for five years, meaning servers and bartenders must renew theirs when it expires. The renewal process requires taking a refresher course and passing the exam, which typically takes around two hours. Over the years, several changes may have occurred in the liquor laws, so it is essential that servers and bartenders keep themselves up to date with any new requirements.

Additionally, servers and bartenders in Washington State must carry their MAST permit on their persons at all times while serving alcohol. Most course providers issue a physical or digital permit upon completion of the course and passing the exam, which can be printed or saved on mobile devices for convenience.

In the event that a MAST permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, servers and bartenders can always request a replacement, but they must make sure to report the loss to the WSLCB within ten days.

In conclusion, serving alcohol in Washington State requires professionals to obtain a MAST permit that ensures that they are knowledgeable about the laws, customer service, and tips on how to prevent underage drinking and over-intoxication. To attain the permit, servers and bartenders must complete a state-approved course, pass an exam, and carry the permit on their person at all times. For lost permits, a prompt notification to the WSLCB will ensure a quick and efficient replacement process. It is essential that servers and bartenders keep their permits updated and current to avoid legal repercussions.

Aerial shot of the state capitol building in Olympia, Washington on a summer afternoon, with the snowy mass of Mt Rainier/Tahoma in the distance.

Temporary Delivery Endorsements Expiring on Jul. 1, 2025

Person in a black t-shirt holding a smartphone and brown paper bag interacting with an apartment buzzer

Cutting Off and Discontinuing Alcohol Service–a Guide

What are the common signs of intoxication?

Lack of physical coordination

  • Loss of muscle control
  • Missing mouth when raising the glass to drink
  • Inability to focus — squinting
  • Trouble picking up money or getting their wallet out
  • Dexterity problems with cell phone
  • Staggering when walking to and from the restrooms
  • Swaying while standing
  • Inconsiderate of others while on their cell phone
  • Becoming aggressive or annoying with other customers
  • Swearing
  • Complaining about service quality or price of drinks
  • Becoming overly friendly
  • Buying rounds of drinks for strangers
  • Losing concentration and train of thought
  • Avoiding eye contact
  • Bobbing head or eyelids drooping
  • Relaxed inhibitions
  • Impaired judgment
  • Slowed reaction time or deliberate movements
  • Disorderly behavior
  • Loud talking
  • Fumbling over words
  • Incoherent train of thought

Other Considerations

If a customer appears to explain a warning sign for possible intoxication, such as unsteady walking because of leg braces, look for additional signs that may signal intoxication. Since some characteristics of certain disabilities may mimic signs of intoxication, only through diligent communication can you assure that individuals with disabilities are treated fairly. Do not be afraid to ask questions.

DUI Place of Last Drink Program

In Washington State, law enforcement captures data from the DUI processing questionnaire regarding the place a DUI suspect may have consumed their last drink. LCB gets this data monthly from Washington State Patrol. Be aware that if a person involved in a DUI traffic stop identifies your business as their place of last drink, it may affect your license. It benefits licensees to help identify intoxication and eliminate over-service situations to prevent dangerous situations on our roads.

Alternate Transportation

It is much easier in the common era to arrange alternative transportation. If a guest has been drinking somewhere else, or has mixed their alcohol with other intoxicating substances, you can inadvertently find yourself with a drunk guest, who is not safe to drive. That is why Mandatory Alcohol Server Training has been enacted in Washington State. It aims to educate the folks actually serving the alcohol. Servers with their MAST cards, their MAST permits, understand their important role in keeping their communities safe. There is a ripple effect from establishment, to server, to community.

Thankfully, you have choices if a guest has become too intoxicated to safely drive. If they become upset at this –they have already been drinking too much.

  • Call them an Lyft or uber
  • Call a friend or family member

Also, please remember, if they get upset that day, when they return for their vehicle, they will be very thankful. Some servers have even been given flowers the next day by a grateful guest who has impaired judgment. That is, they were too drunk to know they were too drunk to drive

In Closing

Remember, alcohol affects everyone differently. A person’s level of intoxication may depend on how fast the person is drinking, the amount of food consumed, and other factors. Trust your judgement and lean on other servers or managers if you are uncertain. When in doubt, do not serve. Overserving someone showing signs of intoxication can be detrimental to both the business and public safety.

Barriers and Demarcations: when do I need them and where can I use them?

  • Steps or ramps up or down
  • Walls, half-walls, or 42-inch barriers
  • Stationary planters
  • Floor lighting or beacons
  • Permanent stanchions, pillars, posts

Outdoor Alcohol Service on Privately Owned Spaces

When serving alcohol on privately owned space outdoors, these areas must be enclosed by a permanent or movable barrier a minimum of 42 inches tall, with openings no more than 10 feet wide on each side. Examples include stations, portable barriers, and outdoor fencing.

Outdoor Alcohol Service on Publicly Owned Spaces

When serving alcohol on publicly owned property that is contiguous to the licensed premises, fence-free demarcations may be used. They must be at least six inches wide and no more than 10 feet apart, and cannot include tape, paint, or stickers. Allowable examples include:

  • Planter boxes
  • Pillars or posts
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Examples of indoor area demarcations at liquor-licensed locations
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Examples of demarcations for outdoor areas/patios at liquor-licensed locations

Liquor Related Legislative Session Update

Image of the state capitol in Olympia at night illuminated in yellow light on a dark blue sky overlooking a body of water

A Summary of 2024 DUI Data

Jan 22, 2025
By Sarah Okey, PhD, LCB Research Manager
Image of a person in a blue checked shirt being handed a breathalyzer by a person in a long-sleeved dark jacket

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Graph showing the number of last drink reports received in 2024, with an average of 0.15 BAC range
The average BAC was 0.15%. That’s nearly double the legal driving limit of 0.08%!
Pie chart showing gender breakdown, an orange slice representing 76.5% male, a blue slice representing 23.4% female, and 0.10% intersex
The majority were male.
A graph demonstrating the number of last drink reports received in 2024 with the highest amount for the age range of 25 to 29, with 2625 reports
The average was 35 years old.
A pie chart with a blue slice representing 72.6% of reports not involving a collision and an orange slice representing 27.4% involving a collision.
About 27% of cases involved a collision.

MAST Permit Requirements While Working

Person in a long-sleeved white shirt holding a white tray full of a variety of glasses, including wine, beer, and cocktail glasses
  • Conducts alcohol tastings at other licensed locations (grocery stores, beer and wine specialty shops, wineries, breweries, distilleries) and farmers markets.
  • Fills growlers or containers at grocery stores.

When do employees need their MAST permit?

A MAST permit is required within 60 days of the initial hire for servers, bartenders and managers working at on-premises liquor-licensed establishments. If they are conducting alcohol tastings, they must hold a Class 12 permit and be able to present it upon inspection. There is no 60-day ‘grace period’ for conducting alcohol tastings.

Over-Service: When to Draw the Line?

What are the common signs of intoxication?

Lack of physical coordination

  • Loss of muscle control
  • Missing mouth when raising the glass to drink
  • Inability to focus — squinting
  • Trouble picking up money or getting their wallet out
  • Dexterity problems with cell phone
  • Staggering when walking to and from the restrooms
  • Swaying while standing
  • Inconsiderate of others while on their cell phone
  • Becoming aggressive or annoying with other customers
  • Swearing
  • Complaining about service quality or price of drinks
  • Becoming overly friendly
  • Buying rounds of drinks for strangers
  • Losing concentration and train of thought
  • Avoiding eye contact
  • Bobbing head or eyelids drooping
  • Relaxed inhibitions
  • Impaired judgment
  • Slowed reaction time or deliberate movements
  • Disorderly behavior
  • Loud talking
  • Fumbling over words
  • Incoherent train of thought

Other Considerations

If a customer appears to explain a warning sign for possible intoxication, such as unsteady walking because of leg braces, look for additional signs that may signal intoxication. Since some characteristics of certain disabilities may mimic signs of intoxication, only through diligent communication can you assure that individuals with disabilities are treated fairly. Do not be afraid to ask questions.

DUI Place of Last Drink Program

In Washington State, law enforcement captures data from the DUI processing questionnaire regarding the place a DUI suspect may have consumed their last drink. LCB gets this data monthly from Washington State Patrol. Be aware that if a person involved in a DUI traffic stop identifies your business as their place of last drink, it may affect your license. It benefits licensees to help identify intoxication and eliminate over-service situations to prevent dangerous situations on our roads.