What you need to do to get a liquor license
Getting a liquor license means going through your state alcohol board and your local government—usually your city or county. The process takes three to six months on average, though it can be faster or slower depending on where you are and what type of license you need. You will need to submit an process, pay a fee, pass a background check, and often attend a hearing where local officials or neighbors can object to your business.
The exact steps and costs vary by state. Some states make it straightforward; others have long waiting lists or caps on how many licenses they issue. Your first move is to contact your state's alcohol beverage control board (sometimes called the ABC board or liquor authority) and your city or county clerk's office to learn what applies where you are.
Key Takeaways
- You must contact both your state alcohol board and your local city or county government, because both issue or approve licenses.
- The process requires your business structure, ownership details, a floor plan of where alcohol will be served or sold, and proof you own or lease the location.
- Background checks are standard, and some states deny licenses to people with certain criminal convictions or tax violations.
- Many states require a public notice period where neighbors or other businesses can object, which can delay approval by weeks or months.
- License types differ—on-premise (bars and restaurants), off-premise (liquor stores), and beer-and-wine-only are common categories with different rules and costs.
The three types of liquor licenses and what they cover
An on-premise license lets you serve alcohol at a bar, restaurant, or nightclub where customers drink on your property. An off-premise license lets you sell alcohol for people to take home—this is what liquor stores, grocery stores, and gas stations use. Some states also offer a beer-and-wine-only license, which is cheaper and faster than a full license but restricts you to beer and wine, not spirits.
Each type has different rules about hours of operation, how close you can be to schools or other bars, and what you can do with the alcohol. A restaurant with a full on-premise license can serve cocktails until 2 a.m., for example, while an off-premise store might have to stop selling at midnight. Check your state and local rules for the type you need before you start the process.
Some states also issue special licenses for events, breweries, or wineries. If you are planning something outside the standard bar or store model, ask your state board whether a different license category exists for your situation.
Documents and information you will need to gather
Start by collecting these items before you contact your state board or fill out an process. You will need proof of your business structure—articles of incorporation if you are a corporation, a partnership agreement if you are a partnership, or a sole proprietor statement if you own it alone. You will also need the names, addresses, and dates of birth of all owners and managers who will be involved in the business.
Next, gather proof that you own or lease the location where the business will operate. This means a deed, a lease agreement, or a letter from the property owner saying you have permission to use the space. You will also need a floor plan showing where alcohol will be stored, served, or sold, and where customers will be. Many states require this to be drawn to scale.
Finally, prepare for a background check by having your Social Security number and any previous addresses ready. Some states ask for fingerprints, which you can usually get done at a local police station or through a third-party service. If you have any criminal history or tax issues, gather documentation now so you understand what you will need to explain in your process.
How to start the process with your state alcohol board
Contact your state's alcohol beverage control board directly—search online for "[your state] ABC board" or "liquor authority." Most states have a website where you can read the process form or start one online. Some boards require you to submit a paper process by mail; others let you file electronically.
The process will ask for your business name, address, ownership structure, and the type of license you want. It will ask you to describe what you plan to do—for example, "operate a full-service restaurant with a bar" or "operate a retail liquor store." You will attach your floor plan, proof of ownership or lease, and ownership documents. You will also pay a non-refundable process fee, which ranges from $100 to $1,000 depending on the state and license type.
After you submit, the state board will do a background check on all owners and managers. This typically takes two to four weeks. If the board finds a problem—a felony conviction, unpaid taxes, or a previous license revocation—they may deny your process or ask you to explain. Some states allow you to request a hearing to contest a denial.
The local approval step and public notice period
While the state is reviewing your process, you also need to get approval from your city or county. Go to your city or county clerk's office and ask what local approval process applies to liquor licenses. Some cities require you to get a local permit before you can even explore to the state; others do it after the state approves you.
Most cities require you to publish a public notice in a local newspaper or post it at your business location. This notice tells neighbors and other businesses that you have applied for a liquor license. The notice period is usually 10 to 30 days, and during that time anyone can file an objection. Common objections are that the bar or store is too close to a school, that there are already too many bars in the neighborhood, or that the applicant has a bad reputation.
If someone objects, you may have to attend a hearing in front of a local board or city council. You will have a chance to explain your business plan and answer questions. The hearing can take weeks or months to schedule. Even if no one objects, the local approval can take two to three months, so plan accordingly.
Background checks and what can disqualify you
Both the state and local authorities will run a background check on you and any co-owners or managers. They are looking for felony convictions, especially those related to alcohol, drugs, or violence. Some states automatically deny licenses to people with felonies; others consider the age of the conviction and what it was for. A drunk driving conviction from 20 years ago may not disqualify you, but a recent assault conviction might.
Tax violations are another common reason for denial. If you owe back taxes or have a history of not paying taxes, the board may deny your process. Some states also check whether you have unpaid child support or outstanding court judgments. If you have any of these issues, contact a lawyer who specializes in liquor licensing in your state—they can advise you on whether you can still get a license and what you need to do.
Even if you pass the background check, the board can still deny your process if they think the location is inappropriate—for example, if it is too close to a school or if the neighborhood already has many bars. This is a judgment call, and it varies by state and city.
Fees, timelines, and what happens after approval
License fees vary widely by state and type. An on-premise license in one state might cost $500 and in another might cost $5,000 or more. Off-premise licenses are often cheaper. Some states charge an annual renewal fee; others charge a one-time fee. Ask your state board for the exact cost before you explore.
The total timeline from process to approval is usually three to six months, but it can be longer if there are objections or if your state board is backlogged. Some states have waiting lists for new licenses, especially in cities where the number of licenses is capped. If your state caps licenses, ask whether there is a waiting list and how long it typically takes to get off it.
Once you are approved, you will receive your license—usually a physical certificate that you must display in your business. You will also get a license number and any rules specific to your location. Read these rules carefully; they may restrict your hours, the type of alcohol you can sell, or how you can advertise. You will need to renew your license periodically, usually every one to three years, and pay a renewal fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start serving or selling alcohol before my license arrives?
No. Serving or selling alcohol without a license is illegal and can result in fines, criminal charges, and the permanent loss of your right to hold a license. Wait until you have the physical license in hand and have read all the conditions that come with it.
What if my process is denied?
Most states allow you to request a hearing to appeal the denial. You will have a chance to present evidence and argue why you should get the license. If you are denied again, you can usually reapply after a waiting period, often six months to a year. A lawyer who handles liquor licensing can help you understand why you were denied and what to do next.
Do I need a lawyer to get a liquor license?
You can explore without one, but a lawyer who specializes in liquor licensing in your state can save you time and money. They know the local rules, can help you prepare your process and floor plan, and can represent you at a hearing if there are objections. The cost is usually $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how complicated your situation is.
Can I transfer a liquor license to a new owner if I sell my business?
Usually yes, but the new owner must go through an approval process. Some states make this easier than getting a new license from scratch; others require almost the same steps. Ask your state board about the transfer process before you sell.
What happens if I violate the rules on my license?
Violations can result in fines, suspension of your license, or permanent revocation. Common violations are serving alcohol to minors, staying open past your allowed hours, or not paying your renewal fee on time. Keep records of your compliance and train your staff on the rules.