Washington MAST (Mandatory Alcohol Server Training) Practice Exam

What is the “4-hour rule” regarding checking IDs?

1. A server must check IDs for all patrons who appear to be under 30 years old

2. A server must check IDs for all patrons who appear to be under 40 years old

3. A server must check IDs for all patrons who appear to be over 21 years old

4. A server must check IDs for all patrons at any time

The correct answer is: A server must check IDs for all patrons who appear to be under 40 years old

The "4-hour rule" concerning checking IDs requires servers to check the identification of any patrons who appear to be under a certain age. In this instance, the correct answer indicates that a server must check IDs for all patrons who seem to be under 40 years old. This regulation is designed to ensure that alcohol is only served to legal-aged individuals. The rationale behind targeting those who appear under 40 is based on a proactive approach to preventing underage drinking, as younger individuals are statistically more likely to attempt to purchase alcohol. By implementing this rule, establishments can better safeguard against potential legal infractions associated with serving alcohol to minors. It is important to follow this guideline rigorously as it helps maintain compliance with local laws and promotes responsible alcohol service. This understanding underscores the significance of ID checks as a critical component in preventing violations in alcohol service.