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Alcohol Distribution: State Permits & License Requirements
Published Date: 10 September 2025
For beverage brands, understanding alcohol distribution laws by state is essential. Every state has different regulations for transporting alcohol, whether shipping within the state, across state lines, or through multiple states. Compliance avoids fines and ensures safe, efficient distribution.
Expanding into out-of-state distribution is a significant step for many breweries and beverage producers, including kombucha, soda, and spirits. However, it also involves obtaining the correct alcohol transport permits, understanding state-level alcohol shipping laws, and adhering to proper Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for transporting alcohol.
It’s essential to understand licensing and determine which states require permits to transport alcohol. This guide will walk you through key alcohol distribution laws by state, explain necessary licenses, and provide practical insights for transporting alcohol throughout the states.
Do You Need Separate Alcohol Permits for Each State?
There is no all-encompassing alcohol permit. Shipping alcohol within or through other states often requires separate alcohol transport permits for each state, in addition to the license you already hold in your home state.
Each state has its own rules and its own governing body that enforces those rules. In California, for example, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control enforces alcohol distribution rules. In Illinois, it’s the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, and so on.
Applying for separate licenses can be tedious, but we’ve compiled the necessary information for your ultimate shipping logistics.
What are Alcohol Shipping Laws by State?
Alcohol transportation laws vary widely, and most are set at the state, not federal, level. This means businesses must secure alcohol-specific transportation permits and licenses on a state-by-state basis to stay compliant.
Roughly half of all U.S. states require some form of alcohol transport permit before you can legally move beer, wine, spirits, or other beverages across state lines. This applies whether you’re transporting alcohol through a state or delivering directly to retailers, distributors, or consumers.
Use the table below to find state permit requirements and the agencies responsible for issuing alcohol transportation licenses.
Disclaimer: This resource is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For the most accurate, up-to-date requirements, always confirm with the listed agencies.
Dry Regions
“Dry” regions in the US refer to areas where the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. However, although some states contain dry counties, no state is completely dry. Some examples include:
- Cherokee, Kansas
- Lawrence, Kentucky
- Houston, Tennessee
- Ashley, Arkansas
- Dodge, Georgia
Consider these dry counties when expanding your brand and planning where to expand your operations.
How Brew Movers Can Help Your Alcohol Brand Expand
At Brew Movers, we specialize in white-glove logistics for alcohol transportation. We help breweries, distilleries, and beverage brands in the U.S. move products safely and compliantly across state lines.
With decades of experience under our belt, we handle the complex side of alcohol distribution laws, so you can focus on growing your business. From labeling and packaging to temperature-controlled shipping, our team ensures every shipment meets regulatory and quality standards.
We offer high-end shipping solutions to take the hassle of transporting alcohol off your hands. Take advantage of expert cold chain shipping, direct-to-consumer delivery, and our proprietary Pallet Parka insulation system, which protects your beverages without the cost of traditional refrigerated transport.
Whether you’re scaling distribution within your state or expanding nationally, Brew Movers provides reliable, compliant and cost-efficient alcohol transport solutions designed for every stage of your growth. Trust our industry experts to ensure your product reaches its destination efficiently.
Alcohol Distribution Laws by State FAQs
What is a dry county?
Dry counties are areas within the states that don’t permit the sale of alcoholic beverages. However, no state is fully dry, so there are still many possible paths to take.
Can you ship alcohol across state lines?
Yes, you can ship alcohol across state lines so long as you have the permits and licenses associated with each state.
What states require alcohol permits for transportation?
There’s no fixed permit for every state. Each state has varying regulations and required licenses; use the table in this article to find the information for the state in question.
Moving Alcohol Across State Lines? Leave It To Brew Movers
Expanding to new markets can be an exciting time. But understanding alcohol permits by state, licensing requirements, and all of the nuances of distribution must come first.
We possess the shipping logistics skills and knowledge to alleviate transportation burdens from your plate. If you’re ready to expand your operations, we can help. Request a quote today.
