How to Purchase a Liquor License
A liquor license, also known as an alcoholic beverage license, is required by all establishments selling alcohol for consumption either on or off the premises. These licenses are typically made available by the individual governments of each municipality. There is generally a specific number of licenses that can be purchased within the city limits, and this quota is filled in the majority of areas. If that is the case, the only way to obtain a liquor license is to purchase an existing one from a current license holder.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Contact the Alcoholic Beverage Control board, or ABC, for your state to see if there are any available licenses in your area. If the quota is filled, the ABC can typically provide a list of individuals and organizations that assist in finding liquor licenses.
-
2
Research the license. Once you have found a license on the market, examine it for tax liens, limitations and claims you may incur upon transfer. These issues will need to be taken care of before the transfer is approved.
-
-
3
Transfer the license by contacting the state ABC to request a "transfer of ownership" application. This must typically be accompanied by written consent from the current owner, floor plans of your establishment, proof of lease and tax information. If you are transferring the license to a new location, you may also need to file a "transfer of location" application.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Determine the type of license or forms you require before contacting the ABC. This will expedite the process.
Once the application is filed, the process may take anywhere from eight to 12 weeks.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit bar image by Dmitry Nikolaev from Fotolia.com
