Education&Training

 

Mandatory Alcohol Server Training FAQs

Q. How does the mandatory alcohol server training program work?
A.
The program consists of a Class 12 video, a workbook and a 40 question test. Scantron answer sheets are provided to ensure accuracy and speed the grading of the tests once we receive them. Ideally, one of your staff members will become a certified on-site trainer, but if not, we can provide you with the contact information of a trainer in your area (see below).

Q. How can I (or one of my employees) become a trainer?
A.
To become an alcohol server trainer, you must have a current Class 12 permit and at least two years of experience in the hospitality/education/law enforcement industries. You must also complete a licensee briefing packet and necessary registration paperwork. Please contact Kristina McLeod at kristina@WRAhome.com for more information.

Q. How can I get an alcohol server training kit and how much do they cost?
A.
Contact Kristina McLeod at kristina@WRAhome.com to order a training kit. You must be a certified alcohol trainer to order materials. The cost is $75 for WRA members and $200 for non-members, plus shipping, handling and tax. For faster service, credit card payments are accepted.

Q. How is a Class 12 permit different from a Class 13 permit?
A.
Everyone takes the Class 12 test, but a Class 12 permit is only issued to people 21 years of age and older. A temporary Class 13 permit is issued to people 18 to 20 years of age. The Class 13 permit allows the individual to take orders for alcoholic beverages (including beer/wine), deliver drinks to customers or pour beer/wine at a customer's table or counter seat. Class 13 permits can be upgraded to a Class 12 at age 21 by calling the WRA Education Foundation. No additional testing or fees will apply.

Q. If I get a permit, will it only be good at my current place of employment?
A.
Permits are issued to the individual and can be used statewide. You need to have your permit and supporting identification at your worksite available for inspection at all times.

Q. How long is my permit valid?
A.
Permits are valid for five years.

Q. How long can an employee legally wait, after being hired, to obtain a permit?
A.
No more than 60 days from the date of hire.

Q. What do I do if my permit is lost or stolen?
A.
The association will replace your permit for $10. Contact Kristina McLeod at kristina@WRAhome.com.

Q. Who is criminally sited for violation of liquor laws, the employee or the employer?
A.
Mixologists, servers and the restaurant can all be cited for violation of liquor laws.

Q. What signs or posters am I required by law to post in my restaurant?
A.
You are required to post a number of signs at your business based on your license type. Washington State Liquor Control Board enforcement officers and local law enforcement will look for these signs to ensure you are complying with liquor and tobacco laws.

  • Master Business License showing the liquor license classes approved, with expiration date.
     
  • Master Business License showing the cigarette retailers license
     
  • Vending Machine license on all cigarette vending machines
     
  • Tobacco warning sign on all cigarette vending machines and at each location (check stand or cash register area) where tobacco products are sold WAC 314-10-020
     
  • Minor posting signs at the entrance to each tavern and/or cocktail lounge WAC 314-16-025
     
  • Firearms Prohibited sign in each tavern and cocktail lounge. RCW 9.41.300
     
  • Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) warning sign in women's restroom and clearly visible at the entrance to stores, restaurants, taverns, and lounge/bar areas WAC 314-12-195
     
  • Spirits, Beer and Wine Restaurants - Spirits, beer and wine restaurant licensees must post their own sign, which states that food service is available whenever liquor is sold and what the hours of full food service are, in the lounge WAC 314-02-035(8)

These signs are available at no charge to licensees. To order, call the WSLCB Enforcement Customer Service Line at 360.664.9878, or email them at enfcustomerservice@liq.wa.gov.

For more information contact Kristina McLeod at 877.695.9733 x135, or kristina@WRAhome.com.





 

Washington Restaurant Association
510 Plum Street SE, Suite 200 | Olympia, Washington 98501
Phone 800.225.7166 | Fax 360.357.9232 | Local 360.956.7279