Before you start dreaming about clinking glassware around your bar top, you have one hurdle to get over—getting a liquor license. A liquor license allows your bar, restaurant, or liquor store to legally sell alcohol. The type of liquor license you need will vary based on the type of alcohol you sell. You should expect to spend between $500 and $250,000 for your liquor license. That range might seem impossible, but pricing requirements vary based on state, county, or city.
Many states also limit the total number of active liquor licenses permitted in the state, or even certain counties. The best way to know what to expect when getting your liquor license is to check with your state or local liquor control board. So I’ve included state-by-state links in this article so you can find out how to get a liquor license in New York or Washington, wherever your bar may be. Keep reading for steps to getting a liquor license, costs, challenges, and frequently asked questions.
Obtaining a Liquor License: Steps
The specific liquor authority that issues licenses in your area will vary. But no matter which authority you apply through, the process is relatively standard. These are the basic steps you should be prepared to complete when applying for a liquor license.
Step 1: Determine What Kind of Liquor License You Need
There are various classes of liquor licenses, depending on what type of liquor you plan to sell and how your customers consume it. The two major categories of liquor licenses are for on- and off-premise consumption. A restaurant or bar will need an on-premise license since customers consume alcoholic beverages on site. A liquor store would need an off-premise license since customers buy alcohol to consume offsite.
Licenses are further categorized by class within these categories. The license class determines what type of alcohol your business can serve. Some states use letters while others use numbers to describe the various license classes.
For example, a full-service restaurant in Washington DC that serves a full bar featuring wine, beer, and spirits needs an “On-premises Retailer Class C/R license.” The same business in California would need a “Type 47” license. In New York City, it is an “OP 252.” Regardless of how states distinguish between license classes, they tend to use the same criteria to define the various types.
Expand the sections below to learn more about off-premise and on-premise liquor licenses.
Step 2: Register Your Business With the Federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
Any business that sells alcohol or tobacco in the United States—from brewers to bars, restaurants, and grocery stores—must register with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), under the U.S. Department of the Treasury. You can complete this registration by completing form TTB F 5630.5d and mailing it to the TTB. Or you can complete the form online at the TTB’s Permits Online portal.
There is no fee for registering with the TTB. The registration is to enable you to pay federal excise tax on your alcohol sales. Most state and municipal liquor licensing authorities will require proof of your registration with the TTB as part of your liquor license application.
Step 3: Verify Your State Requirements
Most states involve state- and municipal-level (county or city) authorities in the liquor license approval process. In many cases, you will submit your application to your municipal liquor authority, which then forwards your application to the state for final investigation and approval. Other states do the exact opposite process; you apply via the state authority, and the state liquor authority notifies your municipal authorities to get their review and approval before proceeding.
Check with your state’s local alcohol licensing authority to determine specific costs, availability, and processes in your area. Or check out our state-by-state listings below.
Regardless of the unique policies your local liquor control authority requires, some steps are universal. No matter where you apply for a liquor license, you’ll need to determine license availability. Depending on license availability, you may need to purchase a license on the free market from a license reseller or an existing business. I describe both processes below.
Determine Permit Availability
Many states and localities have a limited number of liquor licenses (also called a “quota” system). In many cases, popular areas (like New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles) have few, if any, new liquor licenses available. Depending on your location, you may have to check availability at the state, county, or city level.
Your liquor control authority can inform you about availability limitations and confirm if a new liquor license in your class is available. They can also explain how they handle new license requests, which varies by location. For example, some counties and states hold a lottery if there are more applicants than available new licenses. Others offer a priority waitlist for businesses that are waiting for new licenses.
Purchase a Liquor License From an Existing Business
If no new liquor licenses are available in your area, there may be other ways to attain a liquor license. Some locations allow businesses that are closing to sell their liquor license. Your state’s liquor control board often tracks this process and can inform you of those options. For instance, Illinois makes contact information available for all existing licensees.
When purchasing an existing liquor license, you may have the option of purchasing just the license or purchasing the entire restaurant. Buying an existing liquor license or a business with a current license requires many of the same steps as obtaining a new liquor license. You still must go through the same application process as you would when applying for a new liquor license to get approval from your local liquor control authority. However, in most locations, you can apply for a temporary permit that allows for continued operation while your application is being processed, usually 120 days.
Step 4: Determine Liquor License Costs
The costs of liquor licenses can vary widely from place to place. Most locations charge a small filing fee of around $100 to $300 then a larger filing fee once your application is approved. In addition to state licenses, highly populated cities and counties have their own licensing requirements and fees. Los Angeles county, for example, requires that all businesses serving alcohol have what is known as a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The fees for a CUP vary depending on your business’s hours of operation, with those operating at later hours paying more.
Below are some examples of the application fee and filing costs for several sample states. In an attempt to compare apples to apples, the license type represented below is a new license for a restaurant that wants to sell beer, wine, and liquor until approximately 2 a.m. in a major metropolitan area. These fees do not include the cost of purchasing a license from another business, as you might need to do in California or New York.
Filing Fees for New Liquor Licenses, by State
state | fees | total cost |
---|---|---|
California | – $6,570 state license fee – $100 state processing fee – $1,235 state annual fee – $6,000 city/county CUP fee | $13,905 |
Indiana | – $1,000 license fee | $1,000 |
New York | – $4,352 filing fee – $200 application fee | $4,552 |
Ohio | – $3,906 license fee – $100 processing fee | $4,006 |
Texas | – $5,300 liquor license fee – $602 liquor license surcharge – $300 late hours permit – $327 late hours surcharge | $6,529 |
Liquor License Funding Options
As you can see in the chart above, liquor licenses can be pricey. However, if you are starting a new business, applying for a liquor license will be just a fraction of your total costs. You’ll need to lease and outfit a storefront, purchase goods, hire and train your staff, and advertise your business. There are many small business funding options available, including bank loans, small business loans, and business credit cards.
Step 5: Prepare Your Application
Whether you are getting a new license or buying one from another business, you must submit a license application. The approval process can take months, and it will take even longer if your application is incomplete or contains errors. Properly preparing for the application process can save you months in processing time.
In most cases, obtaining a liquor license often requires you to be of a certain age and a US citizen. Getting a license also typically requires that your business already has:
- An Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Proof of your registration with the TTB
- A zoning permit (that shows alcohol sales are permitted at your address)
- Business license
- Sales Tax Permit
- Alcohol Tax Permit
- Food handler’s permit (if you are selling food)
- Building permit
- Sign permit
- Health permit
- Floorplan diagram
- Music license (if you play copyrighted music)
You’ll also likely be required to provide personal details as the business owner. Most states require:
- A full set of fingerprints
- A copy of a criminal background check, or an affidavit attesting that you have never been convicted of a felony
- An affidavit attesting that you have never been associated with a business that lost its liquor license
- Financial statements from all business partners
- A copy of a criminal background check
- A copy of your current lease
Some states (Iowa, for example) have clauses requiring liquor license holders to be of “good moral character.” This usually means that the license holder must be a citizen of the US and a resident of the state, have no felony convictions, have no connection to businesses that have had their liquor license revoked, and have a good credit score (or otherwise demonstrate strong financial health).
If you have been in business a while, you should also make sure you are up-to-date on all tax payments. If you are behind on your taxes, the state will not look favorably on your liquor license application.
If you’re a new business, signing a lease and securing a property before you have a liquor license may seem scary and counterintuitive, but it is a requirement. To minimize any risk, work with your landlord to put in an escape clause in the lease. This way, if you are denied a liquor license, you can cancel the lease contract.
Step 6: File Your Application
Once your prep work is done, it’s time to file your application with your local liquor control department. This usually involves either applying via an online portal, or downloading a form from your state government website that you either mail to the appropriate department or deliver in-person. Read your local requirements carefully. Liquor control boards vary a lot in their preferred processes. New York and California, for example, are happy to see you in person. But Connecticut hates to receive applications via any mode other than their online application portal.
You’ll need to include your application fee along with your application paperwork and supporting documents. However even here, some locations differ. In some states (like Maine), you won’t send your application fee payment with your application, you’ll instead pay your application fee at your county offices and send a copy of your receipt with your application to the liquor control board. In other locations—like Tennessee—you can pay all of your fees online. Iif you have any questions about how to pay your application fee, call, email, or visit your local liquor control board offices.
Liquor License Approval Process
Typically, it takes five to six months to get your license. Approval can take up to a year in busy markets like Los Angeles. The liquor control board needs to consider your materials, investigate their accuracy and authenticity, and usually perform an inspection of your proposed business location. It also typically notifies your nearest sheriff’s department and county authorities of your application.
For reference, here is an example of what happens in Ohio once you submit your application:
- The application is logged into the liquor licensing system and sent to local legislative bodies and authorities.
- The ABC board works with local officials to determine zoning restrictions and whether new licenses are available.
- The ABC board works with the Ohio Bureau of Investigation to process background checks.
- A Division Compliance Officer physically inspects your premises, noting what schools or churches are within 500 feet of your location (they will then be notified and have 30 days to object). If your business does not pass inspection, you’ll need to correct any issues and request a reinspection.
- If anyone files a complaint, there will be a public hearing.
- If no one files a complaint or you have resolved all complaints, your application should be accepted.
- In four to eight months, you will receive your permit.
Renewing Your Liquor License
The term of most liquor licenses is one to three years. The times vary based on state and local regulations. There is no automatic guarantee that your license will be approved for renewal. If you have had issues with noise or served minors, your renewal request may be denied. However, if you have operated reputably and have not had any significant complaints, you should be able to renew your license easily.
Depending on your state, the renewal fee may be similar to or significantly less than your original fee. For example, in California, fees for a new license can be more than $13,000, but the annual renewal fee is $876.
Tools for Navigating the Process
Securing a liquor license can feel like an overwhelming process considering all the moving pieces involved. The process can be lengthy, especially if you are launching a new restaurant. In nearly all locations, you can find permit expediting services or liquor license brokers to help oversee your liquor license application.
These services all have affiliated costs, of course. However, they are absolutely worth it if they save you administrative time or the costs of re-filing incomplete or inaccurate applications.
License Lookup Services
Several legal service websites offer license lookup tools. These are an incredibly cost-effective way to ensure that you have the correct information for the permit and licensing requirements in your area. Incfile, for example, offers a Business License Research package for $99. This service provides a complete list of all of the licenses and permits you need for your business, plus copies of the application forms you need to file.
License Brokers
Business owners in busy markets like New York and Los Angeles will find it incredibly easy to locate liquor license brokers. A liquor license broker—sometimes also called a license consultant—will usually handle your entire liquor license application process from beginning to end. This is especially useful if you are purchasing a license on the open market or from an existing business.
You can find a license broker or consultant by performing an internet search for “liquor license broker” (or consultant) and your location. Another option is to ask business owners in your area for recommendations. Once you locate a broker, ask how they research available licenses. You will want to be sure that any license you buy from an existing business is free of tax or vendor liens since you will inherit those issues with your purchase.
License broker costs vary widely from location to location. Most brokers and consultants will offer you a free quote based on your business’ licensing needs, though.
Permit Expeditors
Permit expeditors are typically former health or building inspectors. Some, however, are business attorneys who specialize in the hospitality industry. In either form, permit expeditors are experts at navigating the permit process, and they have many contacts at city offices. Most permit expeditors prefer to handle all of the permits for a new business. However, some are willing to handle a liquor license alone, especially if it is a business-to-business transfer of an existing license.
You can find permit expeditors in your area by performing an internet search for “permit expeditor” and your location. If you have a network of local business owners, ask them for recommendations. Costs for permit expediting vary widely depending on your needs and the location. Like brokers, most expediting services will present a free quote tailored to your needs.
Obstacles to Getting a Liquor License
To apply for a liquor license, you must often be of a certain age and a US citizen. Many states have specific restrictions on what days or hours you can sell alcohol. They may also stipulate that a particular percentage of your overall revenue comes from food sales.
Local businesses, schools, and churches within a certain distance of your proposed location will be notified of your liquor license application. Often, they have the right to file an objection. Sometimes these objections lead to a full-blown appeals process where your hours of operation or use of outdoor spaces may be limited before your license is approved.
If your application is incomplete or contains errors, it will be rejected. In many places, re-applying requires paying all of the licensing fees again. If the approving agency is a busy one, it may be a few months before you receive the rejection, in which case, you will have lost time as well as money.
How to get a Liquor License State-by-State Directory
Our state-by-state entries below will give you an idea of your local liquor control authority, the common price range for licenses in your area, and some information about the unique requirements in your state. It is important to note that the fees listed here are only the filing and processing fees charged by your state or municipality. Your total costs will be higher if you buy a liquor license from an existing business or through an auction process.
Find your state in the list below for more detailed information about how to get a liquor license in your location.
How to Get a Liquor License in Alabama
Where to get your license: Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Commission (ABC)
Average costs: $50 one-time application fee; $150 to $1,000 annual state licensing fee
How to apply: You’ll need to complete an application, including an affidavit certifying that you do not have any direct or indirect interest in manufacturing alcoholic beverages. You need to make an appointment to file your application and supporting documents in person at your regional Alabama ABC office.
How to Get a Liquor License in Alaska
Where to get your license: Alaska Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office
Average costs: One-time application fee of $300; $400 to $2,500 annual fee
How to apply: For new licenses and to renew existing licenses, you can now apply online with MyAlaska, a government app for handling permits and other business paperwork. For restaurant renewal applications, you must file an affidavit detailing your food and beverage receipts for the previous year to show that at least 50% of your total sales come from food.
Alaska has some dry counties, so you’ll need to check with the Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office to ensure you are permitted to sell alcohol at your address. You’ll also need to post signs to alert the public of your plans to sell alcohol to allow them to file an objection. All of your employees who serve alcohol will also be required to have an individual license asserting that they have completed an alcoholic beverage service safety course.
How to Get a Liquor License in Arizona
Where to get your license: Arizona Department of Liquor
Average costs: $75 to $1,725, based on your business type and the length of your license (half-year or full-year)
How to apply: Submit your application via the Arizona e-licensing portal. Post signs alerting the public of your plans to sell alcohol.
Arizona also requires that owners and managers of businesses that serve alcohol take an alcoholic beverage managers’ safety course. The management training course typically requires completing a basic alcoholic beverage safety course. So you and your managers must set aside time (and about $50 a piece) to get the required certification. All employees that sell alcohol in Arizona must have a basic alcohol service safety certification (which costs around $20 to $30).
How to Get a Liquor License in Arkansas
Where to get your license: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration
Average costs: $300 to $1,000
How to apply: Contact the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) office via phone at (501) 682-1105 to request an application packet. Submit your completed application and supporting documents via mail.
Some counties in Arkansas are dry or only permit beer sales, so be sure that alcohol sales are permitted in your location before applying. All liquor license applicants must attend an educational seminar offered by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. Your bartenders will also need to complete Arkansas ABC-approved alcoholic beverage service safety training and obtain an individual liquor service permit.
How to Get a Liquor License in California
Where to get your license: California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC)
Average costs: Application fee of $990 to $17,335 (higher prices for larger businesses and priority applications); annual fees of $135 to $1,350, depending on business type and population density
How to apply: License renewals can be handled online via the California ABC online portal. Applicants for new licenses can download application forms from the ABC website and then apply in person at their local California ABC division office. When you apply at your local ABC division office, you may be required to watch an alcoholic beverage service safety video, so allow at least half a day for the trip. You’ll be required to post a public notice of your intent to sell alcohol on your premises for at least 30 days while the ABC processes your application.
Applications in California can take 55 to 95 days to process, up to six months or more if the ABC needs to perform any kind of complex investigation into the application or your proposed business premises. California has a quota system, so if there are more applicants than there are available liquor licenses, the ABC will hold a public drawing (commonly referred to as a “lottery”) to determine which businesses will be considered for a liquor license.
For this reason, many new businesses attempt to buy an active liquor license from an existing business that is shuttering. Though this will raise your costs considerably. You’ll be paying market value for an existing license which can cost more than $250,000 in a competitive market like San Francisco or Los Angeles.
How to Get a Liquor License in Colorado
Where to get your license: Colorado Department of Revenue Liquor Enforcement Division
Average costs: You’ll pay fees for both local and state licenses. Local and state application fees run from $100 to $1,000; local and state license fees range from $25 to $750.00
How to apply: In Colorado, you need two liquor licenses—one from the state and one from your local liquor authority—before you can legally sell alcohol. You need to obtain your local (city or county) liquor license before applying for a state license. You can get your license application paperwork from the Colorado Department of Revenue website, then mail your application to the Liquor Enforcement Division or drop it off in person. Fees can be paid online.
Colorado requires employees at liquor-licensed drugstores or workers performing alcohol tastings to undergo server-seller training for alcohol safety. Liquor stores, bars, and restaurants are not required to have their employees undergo this training. But if you choose to have your staff take server-seller training, your business can be designated as a Responsible Alcohol Beverage Vendor.
How to Get a Liquor License in Connecticut
Where to get your license: Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
Average costs: $100 application fee; annual license fee of $190 to $2,750 depending on your business type and the length of the permit (half-year or full-year)
How to apply: Complete an application on the state of Connecticut’s eLicense site. If you’re unsure of which type of permit you need, you can take the Liquor Permit Type Determination quiz.
How to Get a Liquor License in Delaware
Where to get your license: Delaware Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner
Average costs: $1,000 non-refundable application fee; annual licensing fees of $150 to $2,000, depending on business type
How to apply: Delaware lists application forms online at the Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner (OABCC). You will need to complete the application forms, sign, scan and attach each application sheet as an individual pdf to an email it to the OABCCapplications@delware.gov. Delaware does not accept mailed applications and only accepts applications in person for special circumstances.
In addition to a liquor license for your business, anyone who serves or sells alcohol or manages employees in the state of Delaware is required to complete Responsible Server Training. The training is available via a couple online sources for $25 to $40.
How to Get a Liquor License in Florida
Where to get your license: Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Average costs: $100 application fee; annual fees of $14 to $1,800 depending on your business type and the county where you are located
How to apply: You can apply online at the Open My Florida Business website.
How to Get a Liquor License in Georgia
Where to get your license: Georgia Department of Revenue
Average costs: Investigation fee of $100; $50 to $200 annually depending on business type
How to apply: Apply online at the Georgia Tax Center e-Services portal
How to Get a Liquor License in Hawaii
Where to get your license: At your counties liquor control authority
- Honolulu Liquor Commission
- Hawaii County Department of Liquor Control
- Kauai County Liquor Control Commission
- Maui County Liquor Control Commission
Average costs: $50 to $375 one-time application fee; license fees vary by county
How to apply: Each county has its own liquor authority, so fees and offices vary. Wherever you are located, you’ll need to send notices of your liquor license application to nearby business owners and attend a public hearing. Some counties also want to see proof you have a liquor liability policy with at least $1 million in coverage.
How to Get a Liquor License in Idaho
Where to get your license: State Police Alcoholic Beverage Commission Division
Average costs: Beer and wine license fees range from $50 to $100. Fees for licenses to serve liquor by the drink are based on the population of city they are issued for.
How to apply: Get application forms from the State Police ABC Commission website. Forms can be mailed or dropped off in person at the ABC Commission offices.
Idaho recently banned license resales, in an effort to bring costs down. In recent years, liquor license costs in Idaho rose to $250,000 to $375,000 each for transferred or resold licenses. The hope is that new restrictions will bring costs down and help small businesses.
How to Get a Liquor License in Illinois
Where to get your license: State licenses are issued by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission; major cities and counties also have their own licensing authorities. Chicago-based businesses need to contact the Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) division to get a local license. Check with your city or county offices to find the appropriate department in your area.
Average costs: $750 for new state licenses; costs vary for local county and city licenses
How to apply: Illinois requires an application with both the state and your county or city liquor commission. You’ll need your local license issued by your municipality before you can apply for your state license. You can find application forms on the Liquor Control Commission website and either deliver your application in person, email your application to the liquor control department, or use Illinois’ MyTax portal to complete and file your state application.
How to Get a Liquor License in Indiana
Where to get your license: Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission
Average costs: $5,000 to $200,000* (*higher costs are for paying market value for an existing license)
How to apply: Indiana offers an online and paper application process. Both take 10 to 12 weeks for new license applications. Paper applications can be mailed or dropped off in person at the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission offices. All 92 Indiana counties have their own alcoholic beverage boards that vote for or against local liquor license applications in their jurisdiction.
Indiana also requires that any person serving alcoholic beverages obtain an employee’s liquor license within 120 days of hire. Obtaining this license costs about $30 and requires completing a safe server training course with an approved training program. You can start the process via Indiana’s online licensing portal.
How to Get a Liquor License in Iowa
Where to get your license: Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division
Average costs: $90 to $2,500; prices are based on the population size of your municipality and how many days per year you serve alcohol.
How to apply: You can submit your application materials online via the Iowa ABD Licensing and Permitting System (eLAPS). The Iowa ABD recommends submitting your application at least 45 days before you need it.
How to Get a Liquor License in Kansas
Where to get your license: Kansas Department of Revenue
Average costs: One-time application fee of $30; License fee $100 to $7,000, based on your business type.
How to apply: You can apply for new licenses and renewals online via the Kansas Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) online portal. New licenses are hand-delivered by a local Kansas ABC enforcement agent, and renewal licenses are mailed.
How to Get a Liquor License in Louisiana
Where to get your license: Louisiana Department of Revenue
Average costs: From $2,500 to $5,000
How to apply: Download application forms from the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control website and submit completed applications in person at the regional offices in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, or Opelousas or mail forms to the state offices at PO Box 66404
Baton Rouge, LA 70896-6404. License renewals can be processed online via the Alcoholic Tobacco Control System website.
Any staff member who sells or serves alcohol in Louisiana must complete state-approved alcohol server training within 45 days of hire. Courses can be taken in person or online.
How to Get a Liquor License in Maine
Where to get your license: Maine Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages & Lottery Operations
Average costs: Application fee of $10 paid at the County Commissioner’s Office; annual fees of $1,500 to $5,000
How to apply: Find application forms on the Bureau’s website or request forms via phone at (207) 624-7220 or email (MaineLiquor@Maine.gov). On-premise licenses require approval from your local municipality but off-premise licenses do not require municipal approval. Completed applications can be delivered via mail or courier to the Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations main office in Augusta. The address is:
Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations
Division of Liquor Licensing and Enforcement
8 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0008
How to Get a Liquor License in Maryland
Where to get your license: Maryland permits liquor sales through local, county liquor control boards. Baltimore City has its own liquor control board. The county boards are overseen by the Maryland Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission. You can find your local liquor control board on the Maryland Alcohol Licensing Association website.
Average costs: Application fees range from $100 to $600, depending on your location; annual license fees run from $400 to $1,200, depending on your location, business type, and whether you also offer music, entertainment, dancing, or sell alcohol on Sundays.
How to apply: The first step to licensing in Maryland is finding your local liquor control board office. Some municipalities (like Baltimore City) make it easy to find all the application materials on their website. For others, you may need to call or email your liquor control board for forms and application information.
Caterers that operate throughout the state and sell alcohol in various counties will also need a state liquor license issued by the Maryland Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission.
How to Get a Liquor License in Massachusetts
Where to get your license: Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission
Average costs: $200 to $2,800, based on your location and business type
How to apply: Print the application forms from the Massachusetts ABCC website. Drop off your completed application with supporting documents and payment to your local ABCC Local Licensing Authority (LLA). Post the public hearing date for your license approval within 10 days of filing your application. Your hearing will be scheduled 10 to 30 days after filing your application. Once your LLA approves your license, the state ABC will investigate your application information.
How to Get a Liquor License in Michigan
Where to get your license: Michigan Liquor Control Commission
Average costs: $250 to $20,000, depending on business type, hours of operation, and what live entertainment you offer (pool tables, dancing, live music, etc). You can view a full chart of fees on the Michigan government website.
How to apply: Print the application forms from the Michigan Liquor Control Board Website, complete the forms and bring them, with your supporting documents to a liquor control board office. In Michigan, you must submit your application in person and bring state-issued photo identification. Approval can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on how busy the MLCC office is, and if there are any objections to your application. You can view the full Michigan approval process on the Michigan government website.
In addition to the general license for your business, any employee that sells alcohol in Michigan must have a safe service certificate. Michigan has a list of approved certification classes on its liquor control website.
How to Get a Liquor License in Minnesota
Where to get your license: Minnesota Department of Public Safety Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division
Average costs: $20 to $125 application fee (varies by municipality); $200 to $10,000 annual license fee
How to apply: Small business (aka, “retail”) liquor licenses are approved by Minnesota municipalities (cities and counties). Only wholesalers and manufacturers need state approval for liquor licenses. Local liquor control boards are overseen by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division, commonly referred to as “DPS.” You’ll need to contact your city or county offices to determine the correct division to apply for your liquor license.
Procedures and restrictions vary widely by county, with some counties limiting what type of alcohol you can sell when. Minnesota also has many “dry” counties that do not permit the sale of any type of alcohol, so check with your county or city business services offices before planning on a liquor-based business.
Minnesota is the home of US Congressman Andrew Volstead, the man responsible for the Volstead Act of 1919, or, as most people call it “Prohibition.” So it makes sense that Minnesota’s liquor laws are still somewhat circuitous, with plenty of dry counties upholding the Volstead legacy.
How to Get a Liquor License in Mississippi
Where to get your license: Mississippi Alcoholic Beverage Control Office
Average costs: $325 to $9,000, depending on your business type and sales volume
How to apply: You can print the permit application from the Mississippi ABC website or get the paperwork from your local ABC division office. When you complete the permit application, you’ll need to submit your application in person at an ABC division office. Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to publicly post your application information. Some municipalities will also require that you place ads in local newspapers so the public has time to contest your permit. More than thirty of Mississippi’s 82 counties are dry. So check with your local authorities to verify that alcohol sales are legal in your area.
How to Get a Liquor License in Missouri
Where to get your license: Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control
Average costs: $25 to $200 application fee; $20 to $300 annual fee, based on the type of alcohol you sell and at what point in the year you get your liquor license. Missouri fees run from July through June, so if you join later in the year, your annual fees with be pro-rated.
How to apply: You can print application documents from the Missouri DATC website, then file your application in person at a district office of the Alcohol and Tobacco Control. Once your application is received, surrounding businesses and residents will be notified of your application and have a chance to support or oppose your license.
If you plan to sell alcohol on Sundays, you’ll need a separate license. Some cities and municipalities in Missouri require bartenders to obtain safe service licenses, so you’ll need to check with your city or county for requirements in your area.
How to Get a Liquor License in Montana
Where to get your license: Montana Department of Revenue Alcoholic Beverage Control Division
Average costs: $200 to $500
How to apply: You can print the relevant application forms from the Montana ABC website. Montana has some of the strictest and liquor licensing laws in teh country. It can be very difficult to get a liquor license in Montana.
Montana caps the number of liquor licenses in the state and in each area. When there are more applicants than available new licenses, Montana hosts a competitive bidding process to award available new licenses. The highest bidder that meets the licensing requirements will be awarded the license.
This process can increase your costs considerably. You can also buy an existing license from an active business, in which case you’ll pay market value for the license.
Your employees must also take a responsible alcohol-serving course within 60 days of hire.
How to Get a Liquor License in Nebraska
Where to get your license: Nebraska Liquor Control Commission
Average costs: $100 to $450 depending on license classification
How to apply: You will find all the forms you need on the Nebraska Liquor Control Comission website. The Nebraska Commission’s website is one of the easiest to navigate and includes several informational pages to help guide you through the application process.
One of the only quirks in the Nebraska licensing process is a training requirement for owners. If your license application indicates that you have little or no alcohol sales experience, you will be required to take a responsible alcohol serving class that is approved by the state.
How to Get a Liquor License in Nevada
Where to get your license: Nevada Department of Taxation
Average costs: $5,000 application fee; $400 to $700 annual license fee
How to apply: Nevada liquor licenses are handled by your municipality, either your city or county. The municipalities are overseen by the Nevada Department of Taxation, which they send liquor license applications once the local authorities approve. So you’ll need to get the appropriate forms from your city or county business offices. You’ll file your completed application with the same local authority. Once your application is approved at the local level, the Department of Taxation will perform an investigation.
Most states charge a nominal application fee and a larger annual license fee, but Nevada flips the script, charging a large application fee and a more affordable license fee. Like many states, Nevada also requires that all of your employees that sell or serve alcohol undergo responsible alcohol service training.
How to Get a Liquor License in New Hampshire
Where to get your license: New Hampshire State Liquor Commission
Average costs: $45 to $3,000, depending on license type
How to apply: You start the process in New Hampshire by completing an initial inquiry online through the New Hampshire permitting portal. A liquor commission Licensure Specialist will email you the appropriate license application and schedule an on-site inspection by a commission inspector. After you pass the on-site inspection, you are asked to send your license application and supporting documents via scan and email to the Licensure Specialist. The same specialist will guide you through the process and notify you when your license has been approved and issued.
How to Get a Liquor License in New Jersey
Where to get your license: New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Average costs: $200 application fee; $125 to $2,500 annual license fee; up to $250,000 to buy an existing license from an active business.
How to apply: New Jersey manages liquor licenses at the municipal level, so you’ll need to contact your city or county for local requirements and paperwork. Once your local liquor control authority approves your license, they will forward your application to the state.
Like a few other states, New Jersey uses license quotas. So getting a liquor license can be expensive if there are no new licenses available in your area and you have to pay the market rate to buy a license from an existing business.
How to Get a Liquor License in New Mexico
Where to get your license: New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department
Average costs: $200 application fee; $250 to $10,000 annual license fee
How to apply: You can download the appropriate license application directly from the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department website (which is actually pretty user-friendly). If you have questions about the licensing process, New Mexico provides the email addresses of license Hearing Officers directly on the licensing website, so you always know who to contact.
Once you turn in your completed license application forms to the licensing office, you will be asked to post a sign on your premises to notify the public of your plans to sell alcohol. This sign must be posted for at least 20 days. The whole application process in New Mexico takes 120 to 150 days. Once you are licensed, you’ll also need to ensure that your employees all obtain a responsible service permit after taking a safe alcohol service class from a state-approved course provider.
How to Get a Liquor License in New York
Where to get your license: New York State Liquor Authority Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Average costs: $100 filing fee; $330 to $5,850 annual fees
How to apply: You start your application by notifying your municipality (city or county) via email of your intention to apply for a liquor license for your business premises. You have to wait until 30 days after you notify your local authorities before completing an online application with the state ABC.
The New York licensing process takes 22 to 26 weeks. So they also offer a temporary license procedure that can get you a short-term license in as few as 30 days.
How to Get a Liquor License in North Carolina
Where to get your license: North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission
Average costs: $100 to $1,000 application fee (varies by permit type); $1,000 to $5,000 annual license fee
How to apply: Before applying for your state license, you’ll need to get local approval from your county. You can find the appropriate county department to contact on the North Carolina ABC website. Documentation of your county’s official opinion about your licensure will be part of your state license application. You can download copies of all other necessary application materials on the North Carolina ABC website, too. You can submit these completed forms online, by mail, or drop them off to the ABC Commission in person.
North Carolina offers responsible service training programs for all alcohol sellers and servers for free on their training website. This training is required for you and your employees, and the ABC may ask to see proof you have completed the training as part of your application.
How to Get a Liquor License in North Dakota
Where to get your license: North Dakota Attorney General’s Office
Average costs: $25 to $1,000 depending on license type
How to apply: Before submitting your state application, you’ll need an official document stating your local authorities support your application. North Dakota calls this the Organized Township Board Consent form. Once you have your local township’s consent, you can find the liquor license application forms on the North Dakota Attorney General’s website.
North Dakota has some interesting prohibitions. Licensed establishments cannot sell alcohol on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day, or after 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Some municipalities also prohibit the sale of alcohol after noon on Sundays. Check with your local liquor control authority for local laws.
How to Get a Liquor License in Ohio
Where to get your license: Ohio Department of Commerce
Average costs: $100 application fee; $2,300 to $5,000 annual license fee
How to apply: You can find application materials on the Department of Commerce website. Completed forms should be submitted in person to the Division of Liquor Control, additional supporting documents can be faxed or emailed.
Ohio uses a quota system that limits the number of liquor licenses available in the state and each county or city. You can see how many licenses and what type of licenses are available in each jurisdiction on the Ohio liquor control website. If you apply and there are no permits available in your area, you have the option to join a waitlist or cancel your application and get a refund of your permit fees.
You may also attempt to purchase an existing license from another business and transfer it to your business. You’ll have to pay market price for a transferred license, so this can add to your costs considerably.
How to Get a Liquor License in Oklahoma
Where to get your license: Alcoholic Beverage Law Enforcement Commission (ABLE); see also The Oklahoma Tax Commission
Average costs: $55 to $3,125 depending on business type
How to apply: You can apply for new liquor licenses online at the Oklahoma ABLE Commission website. The licensing process in Oklahoma takes about 60 days. Make sure you include a good email address; Oklahoma issues all liquor licenses via email.
You and your employees also need to take alcohol safety training from a state-approved trainer, then apply for an employee license ($30) once training is complete.
If you are curious about the ins and outs of what you can sell and how, Oklahoma provides an easy-to-follow fact sheet.
How to Get a Liquor License in Oregon
Where to get your license: Oregon Liquor Control Commission
Average costs: $100 to $1,000
How to apply: You can find all the information you need to apply for an Oregon liquor license on the excellently organized website of the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC). In Oregon, you will obtain your ultimate liquor license from the state, but only after your local city or county municipality gives you approval. You’ll need to include a copy of your local liquor authority’s final approval document or proof that you submitted your local application before you can begin the state licensing process.
Once you have your local approval, you can download application forms from LCC website. Submit your completed application and supporting documents to the OLCC via email at OLCC.LiquorLicenseApplication@Oregon.gov.
Oregon further requires that you and your employees who prepare, sell, or serve alcohol obtain a service permit. To get this permit, you will need to register with the OLCC online portal, take a state-approved in-person or online class, then return to the OLCC portal to take a test. There are three fees associated with this permit; a $13 Alcohol Education Administration Fee, a $10 Service Permit Fee, and $5.65 Portal Provider Fee. These fees are in addition to any fees the course providers charge for their training class.
How to Get a Liquor License in Pennsylvania
Where to get your license: Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board
Average costs: $125 to $700 depending on license type; purchasing an existing license from an active business or bidding on an auction can cost up to $400,000
How to apply: Pennsylvania’s liquor licensing laws are known for being somewhat restrictive compared to other states. Retail liquor licenses are quota-restricted and quotas are based in the surrounding population. As a result, PA—and Philadelphia, in particular—has a reputation as a hub for BYOB (bring-you-own-bottle) restaurants.
To start your license process in Pennsylvania you must email the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) Bureau of Licensing to request application information. You will complete your application and compile supporting documentation to be reviewed by the PLCB’s in-person inspector. The inspector will review these documents when they inspect your premises. The inspector will want to interview you and any company principals that live in Pennsylvania. After the inspection, the PLCB may request additional information or make a final determination.
Pennsylvania also offers a unique auction system for licenses. Once a year the state auctions off expired licenses to the highest (qualified) bidder. This can be a faster way to get a liquor license, but it will add to your costs considerably. It isn’t uncommon to see winning bids of $150,000 to $400,000 (the minimum bid starts at $25,000). The PLCB publishes a list of the winning bids every year, so you can keep an eye on the going rates.
You and your employees in Pennsylvania will also need to undergo Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) training via a state-approved course provider. Prices vary by course provider.
How to Get a Liquor License in Rhode Island
Where to get your license: Division of Commercial Licensing and Regulation Liquor Enforcement and Compliance
Average costs: $400 to $2,000
How to apply: Rhode Island issues liquor licenses for wholesalers and manufacturers at the state level. Retail licenses are issued by county and city offices. Municipal licensing processes vary by county. So you’ll need to contact your county or city offices for the best information. Many municipalities in Rhode Island—like Providence—offer a fully online application process.
Like many states, Rhode Island requires anyone involved in alcoholic beverage sales to complete a state-approved alcohol server training program within 60 days of employment. Rhode Island extends the definition of “inolved” a little farther than other states. In Rhode Island any employee who sells or serves alcohol, checks IDs, provides valet parking, or supervises any of these employees must have a certification.
Rhode Island also offers an expedited process for military personnel, veterans, and spouses at the state level. So you you are a military veteran or spouse of a veteran or active duty military personality with plans to open a brewery, Rhode Island would be a good place to check out.
How to Get a Liquor License in South Carolina
Where to get your license: South Carolina Department of Revenue & Taxation
Average costs: $200–$300 application fee; $1,400 license fee
How to apply: South Carolina’s application process is incredibly straightforward, offering two pathways for applicants. You can submit a paper application or use the online application portal called MyDORWAY. Using the online portal, you can file your application, upload supporting documents and pay your application fees.
You’ll need to run an advertisement advising your community about your licensing plans in the in an approved newspaper within 90 days of applying for your license. You’ll need to include an affidavit or a receipt from the newspaper as part of your application.
If you have recently purchased a business that serves alcohol, you’ll need to get approved for the full liquor license. Until that licensing comes through, you can get a temporary license that is good for 120 days while you apply for full licensure.
How to Get a Liquor License in South Dakota
Where to get your license: South Dakota Department of Revenue
Average costs: Varies by county; there are no state fees
How to apply: South Dakota retail liquor licenses are issued by county liquor authorities. So your license application will start with contacting your county auditor to find out if licenses are available in your county and what the process is to apply. The process and fees vary by municipality. So your local county auditor is the best source of information for the licensing process.
How to Get a Liquor License in Tennessee
Where to get your license: Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission
Average costs: $400 to $tktk application fee; $650 to $1,200 annual license fee
How to apply: Tennessee has a unique two-tiered licensing system for beer and other alcoholic beverages over 10.1% alcohol by volume (ABV). For wine and spirits above 10.1% ABV, you apply for a license via the statewide Tennessee Alcholic Beverage Commission (TABC), which has a user-friendly online application process. You apply for your liquor licenze via the TABC’s Regulatory Licensing and Permitting System (RLPS). The application system is completely paperless and one of the more user friendly application procedures I’ve encountered.
Though the two-license system adds a wrinkle. If you want to also serve beer, you’ll need a beer license from your local beer board. You can find contact information for your local beer board on the Tennessee Deparment of Revenue website.
In Tennessee, all people who sell or serve alcohol must attend a state-approved responsible service training and receive an Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server permit. Managers of establishments that sell alcoholic beverages also need to receive manager certification within 61 days of starting work.
How to Get a Liquor License in Texas
Where to get your license: Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission
Average costs: $5,300 to $11,300
How to apply: Texas manages all liquor license applications via the Texas Alcholoc Beverage Commission (TABC) website. The TABC includes an application portal called the Alcohol Industry Management System (AIMS). This online portal walks you through the entire process, including notifying your local TABC office of your application. Through AIMS, you can get help choosing the appropriate license classification, complete application forms, upload supporting documents, make payments, and view the status of your application.
The Texas website is the most user-friendly liquor control website I have seen. It uses your location information to generate the contact information for your local TABC regional office, including an appointment booking widget. So you can immediately see who to contact if you have any questions.
Texas’ permitting process is also faster than most; current wait times are only around 50 days. The TABC also offers safe service certification for servers, sellers, and delivery drivers through a similarly user-friendly website. Though the TABC does not require certifications for workers, you may refer your staff to the TABC certification process if you want to require the training yourself; many Texas liquor sellers do.
How to Get a Liquor License in Utah
Where to get your license: Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services
Average costs: $75–$330 application fee; $2,200–$6,000 annual license fees (prices vary by business type)
How to apply: In Utah, liquor licenses are issued by the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services (DABS), but you will need written approval from your municipal business licensing agency as part of your state application. Utah hosts an incredibly user-friendly website for all types of liquor license applications, with detailed instructions.
Utah DABS only convenes for license approvals once per month. To be considered on a certain month’s agenda, you need to submit your completed application and supporting documents via the online application portal by the 10th of the month. If your application is complex or requires additional research, DABS may defer your application consideration.
Once your license is approved, you will also need to obtain manager safety training and your employees will need to obtain server safety training, or E.A.S.Y training for off-premise businesses. You can find training details on the DABS website, including a list of certified training providers.
How to Get a Liquor License in Vermont
Where to get your license: Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery
Average costs: $550 to $1,095, depending on business type
How to apply: The first step to getting a liquor license in Vermont is getting approval from your town or village. This usually involves a meeting with your local zoning board or select board. Once you have local approval, you can submit your state application and pay your licensing fees via the Vermont online licensing portal.
Like many states, Vermont requires that all sellers and servers of alcohol receive training before selling any alcohol. You can get training from Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL) educator, via online seminars, or you can schedule in-house training for yourself and your team through the DLL.
How to Get a Liquor License in Virginia
Where to get your license: Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority
Average costs: $1,050 to $3,100; fees are based on your business type and occupancy
How to apply: Virginia liquor licenses are handled at the state level. You can apply for a liquor license easily via the Virginia ABC Licensing portal. To help you determine the correct license to apply for, Virginia further includes a handy ABC licensing wizard.
How to Get a Liquor License in Washington
Where to get your license: Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
Average costs: $1,000 to $20,000
How to apply: Current applicants can complete the liquor license application on the Washington Department of Revenue (DoR) web portal. A representative from the Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) will contact you to schedule an inspection of your premises or request additional information. Washington State is currently experimenting with a pilot program to speed the time it takes businesses to obtain liquor licenses. In years past you would have up to 14 days to respond to a request for additional information, but in an effort to speed the licensing process, the Washington LCB has reduced the response time to seven days.
Washington is also trying to reduce the turnaround time for liquor licenses from 90 days to 45 days. So if your building is undergoing major renovations or you are waiting on other licenses before you can open, the LCB may withdraw your application and request that you resubmit closer to your opening date. You and your staff will also need to take Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST). These courses are offere by third-party course providers, you can find an approved list on the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board website.
How to Get a Liquor License in Washington D.C.
Where to get your license: Washington D.C. Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA)
Average costs: $600 to $2,600, fees vary based on your business type and occupancy
How to apply: You can download and print your application paperwork from the ABCA website. You’ll then submit your completed application and supporting documents to ABCA by mail.
How to Get a Liquor License in West Virginia
Where to get your license: West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Enforcement & Licensing Division
Average costs: $100 application fee; $100 to $2,650 annual licensing fee
How to apply: Email the WVABCA at ABCA.Licensing@wv.gov for application information, or complete the appropriate application from WVABCA website. Complete the application, gather your supporting documents, and submit your application package by mail directly to the WVABCA.
The only application component you won’t mail is your fingerprints. West Virginia contracts with IdentoGO by MorphoTrust for fingerprint scanning. You will need to arrange your fingerprint scans with IdentoGO, who will then send them directly to the WVABCA on your behalf.
How to Get a Liquor License in Wisconsin
Where to get your license: Wisconsin Department of Revenue, local municipal government office
Average costs: $50 to $600
How to apply: You can find forms for all liquor license applications on the Wisconsin Department Revenue website. The application forms are fillable forms and can be completed on your computer. You’ll then need to print or email the completed forms and supporting documents to your municipal clerk’s office (preferences for email or in-person delivery vary by county).
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue website is user-friendly, and includes electronic copies of many helpful documents to walk you through the liquor license application process:
- Wisconsin Liquor License Frequently Asked Questions
- DOR Alcohol Beverage Laws for Retailers Licenses
- Retail Alcohol Beverage Licensing Guide for Municipalities Fact Sheet
- Licenses for Retail Sale of Alcohol Beverages Fact Sheet
- Licensed or Permitted Premises Description Fact Sheet
- Reserve “Class B” Liquor Licenses Fact Sheet
- “Class B” Liquor License Quotas
Wisconsin also requires that all staff that sell, prepare, or serve alcohol receive responsible serving training. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue maintains a list of approved course providers on its website.
How to Get a Liquor License in Wyoming
Where to get your license: Wyoming Department of Revenue Liquor Division; city and county liquor control boards
Average costs: $300 to $10,500, varies depending on your location and the prevailing local fees.
How to apply: The state of Wyoming’s Liquor Division issues wholesale and manufacturer’s liquor licenses and oversees county and city liquor control boards that issue retail liquor licenses. Most small businesses will need to go through their local municipality’s clerk’s office (like the City of Cheyenne, or a county division) to get a liquor license.
In some municipalities, you can easily find application materials online, though in others your county clerk will email you the correct forms. In most cases, once you complete your application forms and gather your supporting documents you’ll need to submit your application in person at a county or city office.
Like many states, Wyoming limits the total number of liquor licenses in an area based on population size. So the first question you’ll want to ask your county clerk is if there are new licenses in your desired classification available in your county. If no new licenses are available, you may purchase an active license from an existing business and transfer it to your business. You’ll need to pay the market value of the license, though, which can be more than $50,000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most common questions we get about obtaining a liquor license.
Bottom Line
Getting a liquor license can be a lengthy process that requires a detailed application and potentially thousands of dollars. The best way to ensure a smooth process is by taking the time to check all of the application requirements for your state and city before submitting them, and potentially working with a license locator service to help you find available liquor licenses in your area.