State By State Guide to Obtaining a Liquor License

State By State Guide to Obtaining a Liquor License

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Bonding Solutions | State By State Guide to Obtaining a Liquor License

It’s no secret that obtaining a liquor license is a difficult task. With so many obstacles to overcome and the enormous profit margins associated with selling alcohol, obtaining a liquor license for your business is like discovering a pot of liquid gold. You’re in luck if you want to learn how to get started. The Bonding Solutions team has put together a comprehensive, state-by-state guide to obtaining a liquor license. We will compare requirements by state, assist you in determining how much a liquor license costs, alcohol tax bond/ liquor license bond requirements and educate you on all you need to know before starting the process.

What Is a Liquor License, and How Do I Get One?

In its most basic form, a liquor license is a legal permit that allows a business owner to sell alcoholic beverages. Most states regard it as a privilege for business owners to obtain a liquor license and have the authority to decide how they are distributed, the regulations associated with the distribution, and when someone is not following the specific guidelines required. The government can regulate how alcohol is served through a licensing system. A liquor license or permit is required for every restaurant or business that wishes to serve/sell alcohol. Each state has its own set of regulations for serving alcohol, and liquor licenses enable it to enforce those rules by requiring bars, restaurants, and liquor shops to adhere to them. 

Liquor licenses are typically difficult to come by. When applying for a liquor license, stores, bars, and restaurants must obtain a variety of other permissions and paperwork, including a liquor license bond, also known as an alcohol tax bond

What Is the Process for Obtaining a Liquor License?

Obtaining a liquor license can be challenging at times, and most states limit the number of licenses available. Follow the process below to obtain a liquor license once you’ve identified what sort of license your business needs. 

Step 1: Do state-specific research

Before applying for a liquor license, you should familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations governing liquor licenses in your state and local government. While it may be surprising, county and city regulations may exist in your region. Contact your state’s Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) board to learn all you need to know about liquor licensing regulations in your region. 

The ABC board can also tell you if a license is now available and assist you in choosing the right one for your specific business.

Step 2: Apply Online

You can apply for a liquor license with your local alcohol control agency after researching regulations and confirming that your business meets all criteria sets. All essential papers, as well as the processing fee, must be submitted. 

Step 3: Obtain Additional Required Business Licenses

Before being granted a liquor license, you may be needed to get additional business licenses, depending on your state and jurisdiction. These extra permissions might include: 

  • Permits for business, construction, and zoning 
  • Permits for health and sales tax 

Step 4: Approval and Fees

A liquor license application might take up to six months to be accepted. You will be required to pay a licensing fee if your application is approved. This cost might range from $300 to $450,000, depending on your state. 

Step 5: Renew Your Liquor License

Your license must be renewed every 1-3 years, depending on your state and local requirements. While you have a liquor license, you must also follow all laws and regulations, otherwise, you risk your liquor license being suspended. 

What Is the Process for Obtaining a Liquor License?

You’ll normally go through five procedures to obtain a liquor license: 

  • Confirm the availability of the licenses and permits you’ll need for your business with your state ABC board. 
  • Prepare your application and send it together with any forms, papers, or other information that your state requires. The processing charge must be paid. 
  • Your application will be processed by the ABC board in your state. It might take up to six months for your application to be approved. 
  • You’ll pay the licensing cost after you’ve been accepted. Depending on your state, this cost might range from $300 to $450,000. 
  • You must renew your liquor license every one to three years once you have obtained one.

There is another option if you reside in a state with a restricted number of liquor licenses. Liquor licenses can be sold by businesses. Check with your state’s ABC board for an updated list of inactive licenses to see if any other firms are willing to sell their licenses. You can apply through your ABC board if you discover any available to buy. You can also buy another restaurant that has a liquor license and apply for a transfer.

Age Limitations

Waitstaff who serve alcohol in most states must be at least 18 years old. However, you must be 21 years old or older to get a liquor license for your own company. 

Information that is required

It’s tough to over-prepare for your application for a liquor license. In general, the more information you can supply, the better your chances of getting clearance are. Here are some items you might need to include in your application: 

  • For tax reasons, the IRS issues an employer identification number or EIN. 
  • To make sure you’re legally able to serve alcohol in your region, you’ll need local zoning permission from the city or municipality where you’re operating. Serving alcohol too near to a school zone is prohibited in certain states.
  • A certificate of code compliance from the city or town where you operate. 
  • Your local zoning commission will issue you a building permit. 
  • Your local zoning commission will also require sign permission. 
  • You can obtain a business license through your local small business commission or chamber of commerce. 
  • Your state’s tax department will issue you a sales tax permit. 
  • You can apply for an alcohol tax permit from your state’s tax department at the same time that you apply for a sales tax permit. 
  • Your secretary of state’s certificate of incorporation. 
  • If relevant, a partnership agreement from your secretary of state. 
  • If you sell food, you’ll need a food handler’s permit from your state’s health agency. 
  • A health permit is also required, which may be obtained from your state’s department of health. 
  • Photographs of your building’s exterior. 
  • Your existing or intended menu of foods. 
  • Interior layout of your bar or restaurant. 
  • The title of the structure can be a copy. 
  • The constitution of the company. 
  • Details demonstrating your age and describing your work experience.

What Does It Cost to Get a Liquor License?

A liquor license has two major fees. The first is the application or processing cost, which can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The second factor is the price of the license, which may range from $300 to roughly $450,000 depending on where you live. Finally, you’ll have to pay a renewal charge, which can range from $50 to the whole amount of the permit. You may also be liable to penalty fees or other penalties if you fail to renew on time. The cost of these items is determined by the state.

Costs in Different States

Licensing expenses might vary significantly between states with various liquor regulations. Because liquor licenses are such a precious commodity, states that limit the number of them usually charge more. 

Different License Types

The cost of a liquor license varies based on the kind of license. A restaurant that simply wishes to offer beer and wine would usually pay less for a liquor license than one that allows them to serve “all liquor.” Due to the increased amount of alcohol sales and the greater accountability demanded of servers, tavern or bar licenses are more expensive than restaurant licenses.

In all 50 states, here’s how to acquire a liquor license

All of this indicates that acquiring a liquor license is a difficult, costly, and time-consuming procedure. However, with such huge profit margins on booze sales, many company owners consider it worthwhile. If you’re one of those company owners, our state-by-state guide to acquiring a liquor license can help you get started on your application. 

In Alabama, how do you receive a liquor license?

To obtain an Alabama liquor license, contact the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) licensing division office in your county and schedule an appointment. A pre-application form and checklist must be completed prior to your visit. The pre-application form, company or LLC documentation, identification documents, written approval from your local governing body, and a liquor liability insurance certificate are among the documents you must present to the licensing division office, according to the checklist. 

Licenses in Alabama range in price from $100 to $1,000, depending on the sort of license you want, according to the Alabama ABC website. Every year on September 30th, all liquor licenses expire. The license must be renewed every year.

In Alaska, how do you receive a liquor license?

According to the Alaska Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office website, obtaining a license in Alaska takes three to six months and requires permission from the Alaska ABC board, your local government, and other state authorities. To get started, fill out, sign, and notarize your license application, then display it conspicuously for 10 days at your business location. You can submit your license application to the Alaska ABC board together with a number of other needed paperwork, such as a posting affidavit, evidence of advertising, and fingerprint cards, after ten days. When the ABC board receives all of your documents, they will contact the appropriate authorities to get your application approved. 

In Alaska, how do you receive a liquor license?

According to the Alaska Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office website, obtaining a license in Alaska takes three to six months and requires permission from the Alaska ABC board, your local government, and other state authorities. To get started, fill out, sign, and notarize your license application, then display it conspicuously for 10 days at your business location. You can submit your license application to the Alaska ABC board together with a number of other needed paperwork, such as a posting affidavit, evidence of advertising, and fingerprint cards, after ten days. When the ABC board receives all of your documents, they will contact the appropriate authorities to get your application approved. 

The cost of an Alaska license varies.

In Arizona, how do you receive a liquor license?

There are 21 different types of liquor licenses in Arizona, each with its own application process. See which one best fits your company’s needs here. The Arizona Department of Liquor website allows you to apply for a license online. To get started, create an account and fill out the “My Profile” page with information. You’ll be asked to upload any needed papers in PDF format as well. The paperwork you’ll need differ depending on the license you’re asking for, but fingerprint cards are necessary for all applications. Most applications will be handled within 105 days of submission. 

An Arizona driver’s license can cost anything from $100 to $2,000. All licenses must be renewed on a regular basis.

In Arkansas, how do you receive a liquor license?

Liquor licenses in Arkansas are regulated by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration’s Arkansas Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. Retail Beer, Combination Beer & Wine, On Premises Wine, Small Farm Wine – Retail, Hotel/Motel/Restaurant Mixed Drink, and Private Club are the six categories of liquor licenses available. Each application, together with a criminal background check, an entertainment form, and a form stating that you have completed an ABC educational course, must be submitted to the Arkansas ABC headquarters. 

The cost of an Arkansas license varies from $100 to $3,000, and it must be paid at the time of application.

How to Obtain a California Liquor License

According to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, anybody interested in obtaining an alcoholic beverage license should apply at the department’s local office. They also recommend checking with the proper county or municipal officials to see whether a local business license is necessary, or if any zoning regulations clash with the license you want. According to its website, the average processing time for a new license in California is 90 days, while the average processing time for a person-to-person transfer is 75 days. It’s worth noting that licenses in California must be renewed every 12 months.

How to Obtain a Colorado Liquor License

To obtain a Colorado liquor license, you must first obtain clearance from the local government and submit to a background check, according to the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Liquor & Tobacco Enforcement website. If your application is accepted, you’ll go to the Department of Revenue’s website and choose the appropriate application type for your firm. Manufacturer/Wholesaler, Retail, Art Gallery, Bed & Breakfast, Special Event, Wine Festival, and Liquor Sales Room are the seven licensing licenses available in Colorado. Each permit has its own application and pricing process. Local and state fees apply to all permits, which must be renewed yearly.

How to Obtain a Connecticut Liquor License

To obtain a license in Connecticut, fill out an application and drop it off to the Department of Consumer Protection Self-Service Center in Hartford, along with the required papers and fees. You can apply for one of 26 distinct types of licensing permits. You must obtain clearance from your local municipality and submit a variety of general business information in order to apply for an on-premise liquor license. Applications for on-premise liquor permits take 60 to 90 days to process and cost $60 to $2,750. They must be renewed every year.

How to Obtain a Delaware Liquor License

You may apply for a license in Delaware by using the online licensee system of the Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner (OABCC). Depending on whether you want to import liquor into Delaware, distribute liquor to Delaware importers, or sell alcohol during a group gathering, there are several application kinds and pricing. You must submit an application that contains a copy of the deed or lease of the premises where you will be selling alcohol, as well as the number of parties you want to organize during a two-year period (licenses are renewed biennially). You must pay a $1,000 fee if you plan to hold more than 76 parties in a two-year period.

How to Obtain a Florida Liquor License

A retail beverage permit, which allows you to sell beer, wine, and liquor, is one of the most prevalent liquor license licenses in Florida. Your application, along with supporting documents (fingerprints, zoning information, and health certification) and a $400 application fee, must be mailed to your local Alcohol, Beverage, and Tobacco Division office for approval. Licenses must be renewed every year, and the fee varies based on the size of your county’s population. Florida also uses a lottery mechanism to allocate quota licenses each year. Between the third Monday in August and 45 days before the lottery, you must submit a quota application and a $100 fee to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

How to Obtain a Georgia Liquor License

“Georgia needs three sorts of licenses/permits to sell alcohol: a municipal alcohol license, a state alcohol license, and a Federal Basic Permit,” according to Georgia.gov. There are a variety of licenses available, including Brewpub, Broker, Farm Winery, and so on.” You must first get a local license from local authorities before applying for a state license through the Georgia Tax Center’s website. Manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers all require distinct permits in Georgia. A license might cost anything from $10 to $1,000 for merchants who want to allow alcohol consumption on their premises. You should be aware that all applications may be subject to a background check and a tax clearance.

In Hawaii, how do you receive a liquor license?

In Hawaii, the process for obtaining a license differs based on which Hawaiian county you live in. The Honolulu Liquor Commission is in charge of liquor licensing in Honolulu. Licenses vary depending on the type of business (restaurant, cruise ship) and the sort of liquor you want to offer. The Honolulu Liquor Commission accepts applications online or in person. Following the submission of an application, a preliminary and public hearing will be held to consider the license’s granting. Licenses must be renewed every year and range in price from $45 to $5,940.

In Idaho, how do you receive a liquor license?

The Idaho Statesman reports that obtaining a license in Idaho is notoriously tough owing to a quota system that caps the amount of licenses a community may have depending on its population. Every incorporated city receives two licenses at the outset, with an extra license available for every 1,500 citizens. To apply for an Idaho liquor license, you must submit an application and accompanying paperwork to the Idaho State Police’s Alcohol Beverage Control Bureau (ABC). According to LiquorLicense.com, application criteria vary by application type (restaurant, wholesaler), but most demand evidence of identification, control of the property, and proof of U.S. citizenship. Within 90 days after submission, all applications are handled. If your application is accepted, you will be notified.

In Illinois, how do you receive a liquor license?

In Illinois, a retail liquor license costs $750.00. Your municipal liquor license, sales tax number/Illinois business tax (IBT) number, and federal employment identification number must all be included in your application (FEIN). You must also get a certificate of insurance if you want to enable on-premise drinking. You’ll also need a photocopy of your local driver’s license. The Illinois Liquor Control Commission’s website has information on how to apply for various licenses.

In Indiana, how do you receive a liquor license?

On the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission’s website, you may choose the application you want to submit (ATC). Applications and accompanying paperwork can be mailed or submitted online to the Indiana ATC. The ATC advises that you apply for a permit at least 90 days before you want to distribute alcohol. Call the ATC at (317) 232-2430 for further information. 

In Iowa, how do you receive a liquor license?

The Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division offers a useful gateway where you can learn how to receive a license, examine liquor regulations, check licensing records, see fee information, and more. The majority of licenses may be purchased electronically; check their Electronic Licenses page for more information.

How to Obtain a Kansas Liquor License

The Kansas Department of Revenue’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Department allows you to apply for your license online. Their comprehensive website includes information on how to apply for a license, processing timeframes, how your license will be sent, when you’ll need to renew it, and more. Before applying, make sure you have a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), have registered for company taxes, and have a valid Kansas Department of Revenue tax clearance certificate. Licenses are good for two years and applications are approved within 30 days.

How to Obtain a Kentucky Liquor License

The Kentucky Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) site includes connections to all of the necessary liquor license forms. ABC applications and paperwork can be printed, filled out, and mailed or faxed to ABC, and local approval is required before a state license can be awarded. Other requirements include publicizing your desire to apply for a license in the local newspaper of record at least once before applying and producing background check proof. License payments range from $30 to $7,730 and must be renewed every year.

How to Obtain a Louisiana Liquor License

For both on-premise and off-premise permits, Louisiana has a wide range of options. New on-premise applicants must publicize their purpose in a local newspaper, present general identifying and company information, and submit fingerprint cards, according to the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control. Completed applications should be submitted to the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, together with supporting papers and the application cost ($320 for a beer and liquor permit in a city). Within 35 days, applications are processed.

How to Obtain a Maine Liquor License

The Maine Bureau of Alcoholic Beverage and Lottery Operations offers a step-by-step guide to obtaining a license. You can get your application materials online and mail or hand-deliver your completed application, supporting paperwork, and payments. On-premise licenses must first be approved by the local municipality before they can be approved by the state. This may need a public hearing and the publication of the business’ desire to get a license in the local daily for three days in a row. Contact the Division of Liquor Licensing and Enforcement at (207) 624-7220 or MaineLiquor@maine.gov with any more inquiries.

How to Obtain a Maryland Liquor License

The Maryland Comptroller’s website has instructions on how to apply for the license. A background check is required, as well as some typical business and identity information. Applicants must also file licensing applications with their local government. The cost of a license application in Baltimore County is $600. Every year, all state licenses must be renewed.

How to Obtain a Massachusetts Liquor License

In order to apply for a retail liquor license in Massachusetts, you must submit a new retail license application as well as a notarized Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) form. You may be able to apply online depending on the location where your company is located. You’ll mail these forms to your Local Licensing Authority, along with a $200 application fee (LLA). Then, in the local newspaper of record, you’ll announce a public hearing on your application. It must be published within 10 days of receiving your application. The hearing will take place within 10 to 30 days of receiving your application. 

Your application will be approved or denied by the LLA. 

How to Obtain a Michigan Liquor License

The application for a retail liquor license in Michigan may be found on the website of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Fingerprint cards, local government permission, and property and company documentation are required for each state license application. You may have to pay up to $1,000 in fees depending on whether you want an on-premise or off-premise permit. Applications can take “months” to process, according to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC), and need a face-to-face contact between the prospective licensee and an MLCC investigator. A list of needed paperwork may be found here.

How to Obtain a Minnesota Liquor License

To receive a Minnesota liquor license, according to Bizfluent, you must first obtain clearance from your local government. A business name and address, owner information, building information, your business tax ID, and the type of any entertainment or food served will all be requested on your state application. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement accepts applications. Following the submission of the original application, the licensing bureau may undertake a background check on the owner, which may involve a law enforcement inquiry. The licensing bureau may demand a public hearing or a time for public comment after the application has gone through an initial evaluation procedure. The cost of a license varies depending on the type of license.

How to Obtain a Mississippi Liquor License

The Mississippi liquor license application may be obtained here. Ownership information, financial statements, fingerprint cards, and a copy of your business lease or deed must all be included in each application. Applicants must also advertise their intention to apply for a liquor license in the local newspaper of record for two consecutive issues. License payments can range from $45 to $9,025, depending on the type of permission you need. The Mississippi ABC must receive your completed application, supporting papers, and licensing money.

How to Obtain a Missouri Liquor License

In order to sell liquor in Missouri, you must pay a $300 application fee and submit a criminal background check, evidence of voter registration, and a variety of additional documents with your application form. You’ll mail your application to one of three Alcohol and Tobacco Control offices around the state, depending on your district. It takes 10 to 21 days to process an application. Here’s where you may begin working on your application.

How to Obtain a Montana Liquor License

To apply for a license, go to the Montana Department of Revenue’s online site and follow the instructions. You’ll have to pay a licensing charge of $400 to $800, as well as a $400 application processing fee. Liquor licenses in Montana must be renewed every year by June 30th. Please keep in mind that you will be required to present fingerprint cards with your application. Call the Montana Department of Revenue at (406) 444-6900 for further information.

How to Obtain a Nebraska Liquor License

The Nebraska Liquor Control Commission must be sent, faxed, or emailed applications for state licenses. If you want to bring an application for a liquor license into the Liquor Control Commission’s office to have it evaluated before you submit it, you must phone ahead and schedule an appointment. There is a $400 application fee, and it might take up to 60 days for your application to be approved.

How to Obtain a Nevada Liquor License

In Nevada, you’ll need to contact the local county office that handles company licensing. If you can’t find the correct office, call the Nevada Alcoholic Beverage Control. A Nevada license application form may be downloaded here. Depending on the sort of license you’re seeking for, you may have to pay an application cost of up to $550. By July 1st, all licenses must be renewed.

How to Obtain a New Hampshire Liquor License

To seek an application for a license in New Hampshire, you must first complete out a form. There will be different processes depending on the sort of entity you operate, and each one has its own set of instructions. A $100 fee must be paid when you submit your real application. Following that, you will be required to submit to a business inspection. Call the licensing assistance line at (603) 271-3523 to make a final appointment once the inspection is completed. To your appointment, bring copies of any essential papers (which may be found here).

How to Obtain a New Jersey Liquor License

For a copy of a retail license application in the Garden State, contact the Municipal Clerk or your local ABC board. The application asks for information on the business owner and the location of the business, as well as a $200 filing fee. Licenses in New Jersey must be renewed every year. Some New Jersey licenses can also be obtained through the online licensing system.

How to Obtain a New Mexico Liquor License

New Mexico is a quota state, which means that the number of licenses available is restricted. As a result, the Licensing Department recommends that you hire a liquor license broker in your region to help you. More information is available on their website. If you find a license, you must pay a $200 application fee and submit fingerprint cards, a tax clearance, and other paperwork to the New Mexico Alcohol and Gaming Division.

How to Obtain a New York Liquor License

Here’s a list of available licenses in New York, along with instructions on how to apply and any other information you might need. You can submit your application to the New York Liquor Authority Division online. Before filing, you must notify your municipality via a Standardized Notice Form of your desire to obtain a license, and then wait 30 days to file your application. Fingerprint cards are required as part of your application.

 How to Obtain a North Carolina Liquor License

The forms for obtaining a license in North Carolina may be downloaded at the ABC internet site. All applicants must include standard business and identification documents, as well as FEIN-SSN verification and fingerprint cards. The cost of an application ranges from $100 to $1,000, and all licenses must be renewed every year. After you submit your application to the North Carolina ABC, the commission, with the assistance of the Alcohol Law Enforcement Division, will examine the applicant and the premises for which the permit is sought.

How to Obtain a North Dakota Liquor License

To apply for a license in North Dakota, you must submit an application to the Attorney General’s Office along with the proper licensing fee (which varies depending on the kind of alcohol and the filing month). The application will take four to six weeks to process, and all licenses must be renewed by December 31 of each year.

What is the procedure for obtaining a liquor license in Ohio?

For information on how to apply for a liquor license in Ohio, see this useful document. You’ll start by submitting an application to the Ohio Department of Commerce, along with a $100 processing fee. A notice is given to the local legislative body and the local police department once processing begins. A compliance officer from the Licensing Office will also conduct a physical examination of the applicant’s business to check that it is zoned for the sale of alcohol. A hearing may also be held if the legislative body or a public institution requests it. With all of these stages, getting a license in Ohio might take anywhere from 10 to 12 weeks. The price of a license varies but could be as much as $2,344.

In Oregon, how do you receive a liquor license?

See a list of all license kinds in Oregon to figure out which one is right for you. Then select the relevant program from the drop-down menu and follow the on-screen instructions. Your application will be sent to the county office of the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC). The OLCC will provide you a copy of your license application packet to take to your local government when they accept it. It takes up to 45 days for the local government to complete your application and make a recommendation to the OLCC. Some licensing applicants may be obliged to post a public notice of their application at their place of business. The OLCC will collaborate with you to achieve this goal.

How to Obtain a Pennsylvania Liquor License

If you want to apply for alcohol permits or licenses through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), you must first register for the PLCB+ system with an access code supplied by the PLCB. Anyone who doesn’t have an access code can request one by emailing ra-lblicensingmod@pa.gov. The PLCB+ portal will thereafter serve as your one-stop shop for liquor licenses and resources. 

In Oklahoma, how do you receive a liquor license?

The Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) Commission’s internet site is where you may apply for an Oklahoma license. It costs $55 to file an application, and licenses must be renewed every year.

In Oregon, how do you receive a liquor license?

See a list of all license kinds in Oregon to figure out which one is right for you. Then select the relevant program from the drop-down menu and follow the on-screen instructions. Your application will be sent to the county office of the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC). The OLCC will provide you a copy of your license application packet to take to your local government when they accept it. It takes up to 45 days for the local government to complete your application and make a recommendation to the OLCC. Some licensing applicants may be obliged to post a public notice of their application at their place of business. The OLCC will collaborate with you to achieve this goal.In general, most applications take four to eight weeks to process. The cost of an application varies based on the type of application.

How to Obtain a Rhode Island Liquor License

The State of Rhode Island ELicensing site allows you to apply for a license immediately online. Applicants who are applying for the first time must create a new account. The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation website lists the many sorts of applications. LeeAnn Desilets, Liquor Section Licensing Aide, can be reached at (401) 462-9544 or leeann.desilets@dbr.ri.gov for all liquor-related questions.

How to Obtain a South Carolina Liquor License

The state’s licenses are regulated by the South Carolina Department of Revenue. A list of license kinds and their characteristics may be found on their website. The processing time for all applications is six to eight weeks. You must post an ad in the local newspaper of record 30 days before submitting your application, declaring your intention to obtain a license for your place of business. In South Carolina, a license to sell wine, liquor, or beer costs between $5 and $2,200 per two years, depending on the license type. There is also a filing cost, which ranges from $200 to $300.

How to Obtain a South Dakota Liquor License

The South Dakota Department of Revenue advises you to contact your county auditor to inquire about license availability, cost, and the local licensing process. For additional information, go to their website

How to Obtain a Tennessee Liquor License

Tennessee has Liquor-by-the-Drink licensing, which means you may receive a license tailored to the sort of alcohol you’ll be serving and the type of company you’ll be running. The list of licensing kinds may be found here. To begin your application, go to the Regulatory Licensing and Permitting System (RLPS) of the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), which is an online platform for filing an application.

How to Obtain a Texas Liquor License

The TABC site allows you to apply for liquor permits in Texas online. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of different application kinds and see how much each license will cost in the end. The TABC site may also be used to certify vendors and servers. 

How to Obtain a Utah Liquor License

For information about licensing and access to different licensing portals, go to the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control’s website. Following the submission of an application, the applicant will be notified of the date and time when the ABC will consider their case. The ABC takes into account the location’s proximity and condition, the applicant’s history and qualities, the type of business, and a range of other factors.

How to Obtain a Vermont Liquor License

The Vermont Department of Liquor Control provides a helpful webpage that will walk you through the process of selecting the right license for your business. You will submit your license application to the municipality where the license will be held, as well as the applicable payments to both the municipality and the Department of Liquor Control, once you have completed it. While your application is being handled locally, you will be required to submit extra documents to the state, including a background check and information about your firm. The Department of Liquor Control will also need you to attend a session. Every year, all licenses must be renewed.

How to Obtain a Virginia Liquor License

The Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control’s website details the three categories of licenses available in the state: banquet, retail, and industry. In terms of necessary information and cost, each type of application differs. A $195 fee is charged for an on-premise retail application. Applicants must also post notice of their application for ten consecutive days at their place of business and two consecutive days in the local newspaper. After that, the ABC must undertake a background check on candidates and notify the local government of the application. To check whether there are any concerns, special agents can contact local politicians, citizens, and adjacent businesspeople. A license can be awarded to an applicant 30 days following the first published notice of application in the local newspaper if everything appears okay. A public hearing will be held if a license application is challenged.

How to Obtain a Washington Liquor License

The state of Washington suggests filing an application 90 days before you expect to begin selling alcohol. Visit the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) website to begin your application and follow the steps given. You must also submit an LCB addendum and an alcohol dealer registration along with your application. Additional municipal, state, and federal permits for your business may be required, which are not covered by the business license application. You have the option of submitting your application online or via mail. A $75 filing fee is required for all applications. Following that, the WSLCB will put you through a review process that will include an interview and a time for public feedback.

How to Obtain a West Virginia Liquor License

Check out this collection of alcohol licensing applications and forms to see which ones your company could require. The cost of a license ranges from $100 to $2,650, and it must be renewed every year. All applications must be mailed to the West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration with fingerprint cards, a $5,000.00 alcohol beverage control bond, and/or a $1,000.00 non-intoxicating beer bond, building and company information, and a copy of a valid health permit. Contact the Licensing Division at 304.356.5500 or abcc.licensing@wv.gov for further information.

How to Obtain a Wisconsin Liquor License

To apply for a license, you must “contact the clerk for the city, municipality, or town where you desire to do business,” according to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. The clerk will assist you with applications and information, and your application will be reviewed by the licensing authority (city council, council licensing board, town board, etc.). The license may not be issued for at least 15 days after the clerk receives the application.

How to Obtain a Wyoming Liquor License

Wyoming’s Eliquor 2.0 site allows you to apply for a liquor license online. Instructions on how to register for the program may be found here. The Wyoming Liquor Division will send you an email after your registration is complete, confirming that your account has been enabled. You’ll be able to peruse your options for applying for a license when you log in. For further information, contact the Department of Revenue’s Liquor Division at (307) 777-5866.

We Can Help You Obtain a Liquor License Bond in Any State

Boding Solutions is a surety agency that focuses on our customers’ individual needs and tailors bond plans to provide them a competitive advantage in their industry. We aim to keep satisfying our consumers, educating our personnel, and assisting our partners in their success. Our staff includes some of the most creative, experienced, and hardworking individuals you’ll ever encounter. We pride ourselves on being unique, providing a simplified experience along with exceptional assurance products to our clients. Contact us NOW at (877) 841-6745  or write to us and let us help you!

published on Thursday, July 7th, 2022

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