How to Get a Liquor License in Georgia

To obtain a liquor license in Georgia, there are certain forms you need to fill out and submit. It can be a time-consuming process. Some people choose to have a lawyer help them while applying for a liquor license. In Georgia, you must apply for a state license and local license. Local license forms and state license forms can be found online. All are printable. Forms are filed with different bodies depending on your location and type of business.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine which license type you need to apply for. Wholesalers will need to fill out different documentation than a bar owner.

2. File for a Federal Occupational Tax Stamp. Call 1-800-398-2282 to obtain the proper forms.

3. Obtain a state of Georgia Application for Alcohol Permit. All documents for wholesalers, liquor, malt beverages, and wine retail are available on Georgia's Department of Revenue website on the "Alcohol and Tobacco Division "page. You can also call 404-417-4490 or go to the office at 1800 Century Center Blvd, 2nd Floor, Atlanta, Georgia 30345, to obtain forms and assistance.

4. Fill out and file local licensing documents. These are available online on your county's website.

5. Create a checklist of all forms that must be filed and in what order. Contact your county or Georgia's Alcohol and Tobacco Division for assistance if needed. They will help you figure out precisely what you need for your particular business.

6. Obtain employee permits, if required. Some counties, like Dekalb, require employee permits for any person who is going to work in a business that sells alcohol. Make sure to find out if you need them, then file for them if you do. You won't need to do this until after your liquor license is issued, but you will need to do it to make sure you can keep your liquor license.

Tips & Warnings

• Renewed licenses must be displayed by January 2nd of the new year, otherwise wholesalers will no longer distribute to you.
• Stay up on your taxes or your license will be in jeopardy.
• Supporting documents will likely be required for both application processes. Make copies of items like your occupancy statement, business plan, and proof of financial support for your business.
• Make duplicates or triplicates of everything. Some applications require duplicate copies of application or supporting documents, so you want to make sure you have originals and plenty of copies.
• Double check that you meet the eligibility requirements for obtaining a liquor license in Georgia and your county.
• If you have ever been convicted of a felony, you will not be granted a liquor license in Georgia.

Resources

• State Application for Alcohol Permit
• Dekalb County Alchol Permit Application and Checklist
• All Necessary State Forms

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