How-To Guide On Understanding the Differences Between a Washington MAST Class 12 and Class 13 Permit
Discover the key differences between Washington's Class 12 and Class 13 MAST permits. Learn about age requirements, job roles, training courses, and how to advance your career in the hospitality industry with responsible alcohol service. Get all the details you need to choose the right permit and comply with Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board regulations.
If you plan to work in a place serving alcohol in Washington State, you must know about the Washington Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permits. The Washington MAST Class 12 and Class 13 Permit are essential because they ensure that you understand the rules and responsibilities when serving alcohol. There are two types of permits: Class 12 and Class 13. Knowing the difference between them is crucial for anyone looking to work in the hospitality industry. Let's break down what each permit covers and how to get them.
What permit do I need to serve alcohol in Washington?
Before discussing the differences, let's understand a MAST permit. The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) requires anyone who serves, sells, or mixes alcohol to have a MAST permit. This includes bartenders, servers, and even some managers. The training helps ensure that alcohol is served responsibly and legally, reducing the risk of alcohol-related problems in the community.
What is a Washington MAST Class 12 and Class 13 Permit?
Class 12 Permit
The Class 12 permit is also known as the "Mixologist Permit." Here's what you need to know:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old to get a Class 12 permit.
- Job Roles: With a Class 12 permit, you can perform several tasks, such as:
- Serving alcohol
- Mixing drinks
- Supervising other employees who serve alcohol
- Training Course: You must complete an approved MAST training course to get this permit. This course covers essential topics like checking IDs, handling difficult situations, and understanding the effects of alcohol.
- Validity: The Class 12 permit is valid for five years. After this period, you must renew it by retaking the training course.
Class 13 Permit
The Class 13 permit, also known as the "Server Permit," is for those with fewer responsibilities. Here's a breakdown:
- Age Requirement: You must be 18 years old to get a Class 13 permit.
- Job Roles: With a Class 13 permit, you are allowed to:
- Serve alcohol (but not mix drinks)
- Work as a server or waiter in a restaurant or bar
- Training Course: Like the Class 12 permit, you must complete an approved MAST training course. The topics covered are similar, focusing on responsible alcohol service and the legal aspects of serving alcohol.
- Validity: The Class 13 permit is also valid for five years, and you will need to renew it by taking the training course.
Key Differences
To summarize the main differences between the Class 12 and Class 13 permits:
- Age Requirement: Class 12 requires you to be 21+, while Class 13 requires 18+.
- Job Responsibilities: Class 12 holders can mix drinks and supervise, whereas Class 13 holders can only serve alcohol but not mix drinks.
- Career Advancement: If you're looking to advance your career in the hospitality industry, getting a Class 12 permit might be beneficial as it opens up more job opportunities and responsibilities.
Why Get Washington MAST Training Certified?
Getting certified with either a Class 12 or Class 13 permit is about more than just meeting legal requirements. It also shows that you are committed to responsible alcohol service. This can make you a more attractive candidate to employers in the hospitality industry. Additionally, the knowledge gained from the training can help you handle challenging situations, such as dealing with intoxicated customers, more effectively.
How to Get Your MAST Permit
- Find an Approved Course: A+ Server Education's online course is MAST is approved as a training provider by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board. A+ Server Education's online options are available, making it easy to complete the course at your convenience.
- Complete the Training: The course typically takes a few hours and includes a final exam that you must pass to get your permit.
- Receive Your Permit: After passing the exam, you will receive your permit; A+ Server Education will mail your permit to you by postal mail, which you must have available for inspection at all times while working.
- MAST Permit Checker: After you receive your permit in the mail you can verify your permit in the WSLCB MAST Permit Checker by clicking the link.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between the Washington Class 12 and Class 13 permits is essential for anyone planning to work in a place that serves alcohol. A+ Server Education's Washington MAST Permit online course is approved for both the Class 12 and Class 13 permits. When you pass your final exam, you will receive the permit based on your age. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance in the hospitality industry, these permits are a crucial step in your career journey.
Also, if you receive a Class 13 MAST Permit from A+ Server Education and are under 21 when you turn 21, please contact us, and we will upgrade you to a Class 12 permit for free.
