TIPS Certification in Washington: Key Takeaways
- The cost for TIPS certification in Washington ranges from $20 to $45 depending on whether you choose online or in-person training.
- TIPS (MAST) certification is legally required statewide for employees serving or supervising alcohol in Washington.
- The certification lasts for five years and must be renewed by retaking the course and exam.
In Washington, obtaining a TIPS certification (called a MAST permit) is legally mandatory for most alcohol service roles across the state.
This article provides a breakdown of how to get your TIPS certification in Washington, including where to apply, cost details, training options, exam requirements, and renewal procedures.
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Steps To Acquire a TIPS Certification in Washington
TIPS certification in Washington, also known as a MAST permit, is available in both online and in-person formats.
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Option 1: Online TIPS Certification
- Visit the list of approved MAST course providers at the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board website.
- Choose an online approved TIPS On-Premise course suitable for your role.
- Register and pay the course fee, typically between $20 and $45.
- Complete the self-paced online training, which usually takes about 3 hours.
- Pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher within 60 minutes.
- Receive your MAST permit certificate electronically after successful completion.
Option 2: In-Person TIPS Training
- Locate an approved in-person training provider on the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board's provider list.
- Register for a scheduled class and pay the fee, generally $20 to $45.
- Attend the live 3-hour training session focusing on Washington alcohol laws and responsible service.
- Take and pass the final exam with an 80% minimum score.
- Obtain your MAST certification card upon passing.
Group training is also available for employers who want to certify multiple staff simultaneously.
Cost of TIPS Certification in Washington
The cost for obtaining your TIPS certification (MAST permit) in Washington ranges from $20 to $45 depending on training method.
- Online courses generally cost $20 - $45.
- In-person courses cost in the same range, sometimes including additional materials.
- Many employers cover the cost for their employees as part of training benefits.
Once certified, your MAST permit is valid for five years before you must renew.
What To Expect in the Washington TIPS Training and Exam
The TIPS training in Washington covers essential topics such as:
- ID checking and spotting fake identification
- Comprehensive Washington state alcohol laws
- Recognizing signs of intoxication
- Preventing alcohol-related incidents
- How to safely refuse service to intoxicated or underage customers
The final exam requires an 80% passing score and has a time limit of 60 minutes.
If you fail, you are allowed up to three attempts to pass before needing to retake the full course.
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Renewal and Maintaining TIPS Certification
The MAST permit is valid for 5 years. Renewal requires completing a new course and passing an exam again.
Renewal Process
- Before your current permit expires, complete a new MAST course and exam.
- Permits are not renewed but replaced by completing the updated training.
Renew early to ensure continued compliance with Washington law.
Who Needs a TIPS Certification in Washington?
In Washington, it is legally required that individuals serving or supervising alcohol have a MAST permit. Key roles include:
- Bartenders
- Servers
- Managers
- Employees conducting alcohol tastings
- Employees supervising alcohol sales
Employers must ensure all relevant staff hold current certification to comply with state regulations.
Benefits of Getting TIPS Certified in Washington
Getting TIPS certified in Washington offers important benefits:
- Legal compliance with statewide alcohol service laws
- Improved skills for identifying intoxication and refusing service safely
- Enhanced job prospects since many employers require MAST certification
- Reduces liability for businesses and employees by promoting responsible alcohol service
Key Washington Alcohol Laws Related to TIPS Certification
Understanding Washington’s alcohol laws is critical for TIPS-certified individuals:
- Legal drinking age: 21 years old.
- Hours of alcohol sales: 6:00 AM - 2:00 AM for both on-premise and off-premise sales.
- ID checking required for anyone under 21 and mandatory to spot fake identification.
- Dram shop liability: Businesses are liable for damages caused by intoxicated customers they served.
- Right to refuse service: Establishments have the legal right to refuse alcohol service to intoxicated or underage customers.
TIPS training prepares employees to comply with these laws while managing real-world situations responsibly.
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