How to Obtain a Liquor License: Requirements by State

Each state has different requirements for liquor licenses. Business owners can apply for liquor licenses within each state, depending on the class of license they require. This article outlines how to obtain a liquor license at the state level and what business owners can expect throughout the process.

Offering alcohol in any establishment in the United States requires a permit. Whether you own a restaurant, bar, club, event vendor business, brewery, grocery store, theatre, etc., you can only offer alcoholic drinks with a permit to sell them. 

However, the requirements vary per state. Use this guide to find out how to obtain a liquor license in each state and start shipping your product.

What is a Liquor License? 

A liquor license is a permit that allows your business to manufacture and distribute alcohol in certain regions. Liquor licenses determine how alcohol can be sold and whether different regulations apply depending on the type of alcohol (e.g., beer, wine, spirits).

The average liquor license outlines the following:

• To whom can alcohol be sold
• The price of the alcohol
• When it’s permitted to sell it
• The types of alcohol a business can sell
• What containers must be used 
• If there’s a cap to how much a business can sell, quotas, and more.

What are Dry Counties? 

Dry counties are areas where the sale of alcohol is prohibited. Several states have dry counties, such as Kansas, Texas, and Tennessee; however, no state is entirely dry.

Image source: Unsplash

Outlining Liquor License Classes for Alcoholic Beverage Control 

Various states will require specific liquor license classes. Liquor license classes further specify the rules and regulations that a business must follow, depending on the type of license it requires. 

Each state’s control board will outline which license types it uses and which companies are required to use them. These are some examples of license classes:

• Arts license: Allows theaters and galleries to serve alcohol during events.
• Club license: Allows private social clubs to serve alcohol.
• Hotel license: Allows hotels to serve liquor in their rooms or at their bars and restaurants.
• All-liquor licence: Allows a business to serve all kinds of alcohol.
• Temporary license: For example, for caterers who serve alcohol at events on occasion.

Alabama Liquor License Requirements 

The state of Alabama requires businesses to complete a pre-application form and pay a $50 fee for each license application. Alabama also requires additional documentation, such as identification and background checks.

→ Resource: ALACBC Board Pre-application Checklist

Alaska Liquor License Requirements 

The state of Alaska requires fingerprint cards as well as the following:

• new license application
• premises diagram form
• public notice posting affidavit form
• authorization of records release
• statement of financial interest

→ Resource: Alaska Alcohol & Marijuana Control

Arizona Liquor License Requirements 

Arizona license requirements vary depending on the type of license; however, in most cases, you’ll need background checks, premises suitability, a diagram of licensed premises, and an operating/safety plan.

Arkansas Liquor License Requirements 

Arkansas requirements vary depending on the kind of permit required. You’ll need to:

• Complete an ABC Form 1 application
• Pay a $100 fee to process the application
• Register with the Arkansas Secretary of State
• Demonstrate legal authority to occupy the space
• Undergo a background check
• Complete additional requirements.

California Liquor License Requirements 

California businesses must file Form ABC-211 with the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and post a Public Notice of Application. 

You’ll also need a Seller’s Permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration and any required local business licenses or zoning approvals. Producers and wholesalers must obtain a Federal Basic Permit from the Tax and Trade Bureau.

Colorado Liquor License Requirements 

In Colorado, applicants must first secure local government approval (zoning/neighborhood needs) before applying through the state.

For state filing, Colorado’s Liquor Enforcement Division requires applicants to:

• File Application Form DR 8404
• Pay the license and application fees (varies by license type)
• Provide a diagram of the premises, proof of property possession, background information, and financial documents.

Wholesalers must also submit an Affidavit of Compliance confirming they meet state distribution laws.

→ Resource: CDOR – Apple for License or Permit – Liquor Enforcement Division

Connecticut Liquor License Requirements 

In Connecticut, you’ll need to complete the online application through the DCP and submit the following supporting documents: 

• business registration
• zoning/fire approval
• proof of site possession (lease or deed),
• required application fee payment
• background/personal history information.

If a third-party “backer” is involved, financial documentation may be requested to confirm the source of funds.

Delaware Liquor License Requirements 

In Delaware, applicants must pay the applicable licensing fee (which varies by license type and permit duration) and provide proof of business formation (such as a certificate of incorporation, operating agreement, or LLC registration). 

For manufacturing or brewing operations, additional forms may include a notice of intent and distribution plan. Additional documents may be required depending on whether you’re applying for retail, wholesale, manufacturing, or importing privileges.

Other required items include:

• Criminal background checks
• Proof or property control
• Local zoning/municipal approval
• Proof of financial responsibility
  

→ Resource: OABCC Forms & Application Materials

Florida Liquor License Requirements 

Florida businesses must submit a state application to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and pay the applicable license fee (which depends on license type and location). 

• If you produce, import, or own a brand, you’ll also need a federal TTB permit. You must register each brand/label submitted, including providing the TTB number and a legible copy of each brand label. 
• Retail-only applicants may not need the brand registration step; however, they must still comply with local licenses and obtain state approval.

→ Resource: Alcoholic Beverage License Approvals

Georgia Liquor License Requirements 

In Georgia, you must first obtain approval from your local licensing authority before applying for a state alcohol license through the Department of Revenue. Applicants must 

• provide fingerprints
• pass a background investigation
• obtain tax clearance, and 
• hold a valid local alcohol license. 

Additional local requirements, such as zoning approval or public hearings, may also apply. 

→ Resource: DPBR Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco Licensing 

Hawai’i Liquor License Requirements 

Liquor licenses in Hawai‘i are issued by county liquor commissions. Applicants generally must submit: 

• a personal history affidavit
• fingerprints for background checks
• a financial statement
• zoning clearance
• a notification of authorized agent (if applicable).

A public hearing and posting of notice are also required before issuance.

Source: Honolulu Liquor Commission

Idaho Liquor License Requirements 

In Idaho, liquor license applicants must submit a completed application to the State Police Alcohol Beverage Control, along with a 

• premises diagram
• entity formation documents (such as a certificate of incorporation or organization)
• a letter of signing authority, 
• a partnership agreement, if applicable. 

Applicants must also complete background checks, provide fingerprints, and receive local government approval.

Illinois Liquor License Requirements 

In Illinois, applicants must first secure any required local liquor license, then apply to the ILCC. The state application requires submitting the following:

• local liquor license copy, 
• a certificate of insurance (if alcohol will be consumed on‑premises)
• proof of property possession (lease or deed)
• business entity information (corporation/LLC/partnership)
• ownership and officer details
• Sales Tax/IBT account number
• payment of the applicable application and annual license fee (fee varies by license type).

→ Resource: ILCC Liquor Licensing Application Packet

Indiana Liquor License Requirements 

In Indiana, requirements vary widely by license type and locality. Generally, applying for a liquor license requires you to: 

• pay the required application fee
• provide proof of location (lease or deed)
• present a detailed floor plan of the premises
• submit to background and fingerprint checks
• attend your county’s Alcoholic Beverage Board hearing. 

Because Indiana uses a quota system, you’ll also need to confirm license availability in your area before proceeding.

→ Resource: Indiana ATC Applications and Forms

Iowa Liquor License Requirements 

In Iowa, licensing is conducted online through the ABD portal, where applicants can apply.

Applicants must: 

• be U.S. citizens or Iowa‑resident businesses (or properly organized Iowa entities) in good standing 
• demonstrate a reputation for compliance and sound financial standing
• disclose any relevant criminal history 
• possess a valid Iowa Sales Tax Permit
• Present a premises diagram or floor plan. 

→ Resource: Iowa Dept. of Revenue – Alcohol Licensing

Kansas Liquor License Requirements 

Kansas applicants must obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), register for business taxes, and secure a valid Tax Clearance Certificate from the Kansas Department of Revenue. 

Applicants are also required to submit fingerprints for a background check and provide proof of property ownership or a lease agreement.

→ Resource: Kansas Department of Revenue – Alcoholic Beverage Control

Kentucky Liquor License Requirements 

Kentucky license requirements vary by license type; however, most applicants must undergo background checks, obtain local ABC and zoning approvals, and submit a detailed premises diagram. You’ll also be required to publish a public notice of intent to apply in a local newspaper before filing with the state ABC.

→ Resource: Kentucky ABC – Licensing Requirements

Louisiana Liquor License Requirements 

The state of Louisiana requires a Notice of Intent to be published twice in a local newspaper before submitting the application to the Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control.

Required documents include:

• a premises diagram
• proof of a local alcohol permit or approval
• application fee payment
• copy of a government-issued photo ID
• background check with fingerprints

Your business must also be registered with the Louisiana Secretary of State and Department of Revenue.

→ Resource: Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control

Maine Liquor License Requirements 

In Maine, applicants must first obtain local municipal or county approval, then submit a state application via the BELLS system. Requirements typically include:

• Business and partner information
• 3-day application advertisement in the local newspaper
• Proof of property ownership or lease 
• Application fee payment 
• Premises inspection or documentation of zoning/compliance
• Background checks on owners and key personnel are conducted.

→ Resource: Maine BABLO – Getting Licensed 

Maryland Liquor License Requirements 

Along with your application, Maryland requires proof of identity or incorporation documents, financial statements, security bonds for select licenses, tax registration, zoning letters, and federal and state alcohol permits.

Local zoning or county board approval is typically required, along with a security bond for some license types. For manufacturing or importing, federal TTB permits are also needed. These requirements vary depending on whether you’re applying for retail, wholesale, manufacturing, or carrier permits.

→ Resource: ATCC – How to Apply for Alcohol License and Permits

Massachusetts Liquor License Requirements

In Massachusetts, your local licensing authority (LLA) must first approve your application before you can submit it to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC). Requirements typically include:

• Premises floor plan
• Proof of legal right to occupy the premises
• Financial disclosure forms
• background/personal history affidavits
• Health or food facility registrations (if applicable)

Certain license types (importers and manufacturers) may also require federal TTB permits and surety bonds.

→ Resource: Mass.gov – Apply for an Alcoholic Beverages Retail License 

Michigan Liquor License Requirements 

In Michigan, liquor license applicants need to get local approval and zoning sign-off, complete a fingerprint background check (via Livescan), and pay a $70 inspection fee and a permit fee, which varies by license type. 

You’ll also need to submit the following:

• business documents
• proof you control the property (lease or deed) 
• purchase agreement (if transferring a license)

→ Resource: Michigan Liquor Control Commission – Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

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Minnesota Liquor License Requirements 

In Minnesota, license types have varying requirements. Most applicants are required to undergo a background check and submit a personal history statement. 

• Manufacturers, wholesalers and importers must register each brand label with the Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division and provide a surety bond. 
• Retail applicants must also obtain local government approval before their application can be issued by the state.

Mississippi Liquor License Requirements 

Mississippi’s Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) requires applicants to: 

• Sign up for an online TAP account
• Complete the application online through TAP
• Submit fingerprints for background checks
• Provide a valid state sales tax number
• Ownership or business classification documents

You’ll also need to include an application fee, proof of property control and local government approval before receiving a license.

→ Resource: Mississippi Department of Revenue – ABC Licensing

Missouri Liquor License Requirements 

In Missouri, your liquor license application must include business information, ownership type, a criminal record check, a Missouri retail sales tax license, and an application fee. Depending on your license type, you may also need zoning approval or floor plans, so check with the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control before applying.

Montana Liquor License Requirements 

In Montana, getting a liquor license requires varying documents depending on the license type. It generally requires the following:

• business registration
• Missouri retail sales tax license
• ownership type
• a criminal background record check
• Proof of property ownership or lease
• zoning approval or floor plans
• application fee payment 

Label registration may also apply if you’re a manufacturer or wholesaler.

→ Resource: Montana Department of Revenue – Alcoholic Beverage Control

Nebraska Liquor License Requirements 

Nebraska businesses must submit a completed application, a premises diagram, proof of property control, fingerprints, a background check, and payment of the application fee. Depending on the license type, a business plan or purchase agreement may also be required.

→ Resource: Nebraska Liquor Control Commission Licensing

Nevada Liquor License Requirements 

In Nevada, you’ll need to complete local and state processes to get a liquor license. You’ll undergo a background check, provide sales tax license, and prove ownership classification. Depending on your city or county, you might be required to provide property diagrams and zoning approvals. Additionally, Nevada licensing is handled locally. Check your county’s exact rules before filing.

→ Resource: Nevada Liquor License Application

New Hampshire Liquor License Requirements 

New Hampshire application requirements vary by license type; however, most applicants must submit a notarized affidavit of ownership/control, provide personal history information, and meet local approval requirements.

New Jersey Liquor License Requirements 

Liquor license applications in New Jersey usually require an 

• application or state filing fee payment
• detailed sketch of the licensed premises
• proof of property possession (lease or deed)
• background information
• business ownership documents.

New Mexico Liquor License Requirements 

Generally, New Mexico applicants are required to provide a Tax Registration Certificate, proof of FEIN, entity documents, a zoning statement, and a floor plan. Other requirements vary depending on the type of license you’re applying for.

→ Resource: New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department – ABC Licensing

New York Liquor License Requirements 

In New York, applicants must have a physical presence in New York, be a U.S. citizen, and provide fingerprints, along with an associated fee. Varying application fees apply depending on the type of license.

→ Resource: New York SLA – What You Need to Know to Become a Licensed Retailer

North Carolina Liquor License Requirements 

Applying for a liquor license in North Carolina requires submitting the following documents with your application: 

• Business incorporation papers
• proof of property ownership or lease
• proof of ownership
• premises diagram
• zoning compliance form
• photos of the property
• appropriate fees

→ Resource: North Carolina ABC – Retail Permit Checklist

North Dakota Liquor License Requirements 

A complete North Dakota license application must include 

• Application for State Retail Alcoholic Beverage License (Form SFN 11066)
• Personal Information Form (SFN 10866)
• Alcoholic Beverage Floor Plan (SFN 14985)
• appropriate fee
• local liquor license
• most recent health and fire safety inspection of the property
• purchase agreement (if transferring license)
• proof of property ownership or lease
• proof of ownership

→ Resource: North Dakota Attorney General – Retail Alcoholic Beverage License

Ohio Liquor License Requirements 

In Ohio, applying for a liquor license requires access to the OPAL (Ohio Permit & Liquor Licensing) portal. Create an OHID account to access OPAL and submit the following requirements:

• ownership/entity disclosure forms
• proof of tenancy or property control (such as a signed landlord statement)
• business structure and funding documentation

→ Resource: Ohio Department of Commerce – OPAL Registration Form

Oklahoma Liquor License Requirements 

In Oklahoma, applicants must file a complete application, including proof of incorporation (or good standing certificate), liability insurance, and property documentation (lease or sales contract). 

Local requirements may include a certificate of compliance with zoning/fire codes and a tax statement showing no outstanding property taxes. Depending on your business entity or structure, additional documents like a location diagram or certificate of authority may be required.

→ Resource: Oklahoma ABLE Commission Licensing & Application

Oregon Liquor License Requirements 

In Oregon, alcohol licensing is processed online through the Cannabis and Alcohol Management Program (CAMP). You’ll need to submit your business registration and entity documents, pay the application fee, and provide your proof of property control (lease or deed) and local government recommendation. 

The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) also requires background/personal-history information for key owners. Local jurisdictions may also require floor-plan or zoning approval, a floor plan, and an entity structure request, along with the applicable license.

→ Resource: OLCC – General Overview of the Licensing Process

Pennsylvania Liquor License Requirements 

To obtain a liquor license in Pennsylvania, provide the following requirements and pass a thorough investigation:

• Detailed documentation for all principals (identification, residence and employment history)
• Proof of premises control (lease or deed)
• Full financial disclosure (bank statements, source of purchase funds)

Many license classes also require proof of tax compliance and a Tax certification statement.

→ Resource: Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board – Applicant/Licensee Requirements

Rhode Island Liquor License Requirements 

In Rhode Island, obtaining a liquor license depends on the type of license you need (retail, manufacturer, or wholesaler). Requirements typically include: 

• Application forms 
• Proof of business entity
• Ownership and personal information
• Premises documentation (lease or deed, zoning approval, floor plans or diagrams)
• Local health and fire inspection certifications 
• Certificate of Good Standing 
• Applicable license fees

Note: Retail liquor license applications are approved at the municipal level. Manufacturer or wholesaler licenses are issued by the state, but still involve municipal approvals.

→ Resource: Rhode Island DBR – Liquor Licensing

South Carolina Liquor License Requirements 

In South Carolina, retail applicants must provide an affidavit of legal advertisement, proof of criminal background checks for owners, lease or ownership of the premises, and payment of the application filing fee. 

Manufacturers or importers may need to provide their federal TTB permit and any supplier/distribution agreements. Applications are processed on the MyDORWAY portal.

→ Resource: South Carolina DOR – Apply for an ABL license or permit 

South Dakota Liquor License Requirements 

In South Dakota, you need to provide the following to apply for a liquor license:

• business ownership and structure documentation
• property lease or deed
• premises layout and building blueprint
• applicable license fee payment

Contact your local finance officer for information on license availability and the licensing process. If you’re applying as a wholesaler, you’ll need to pay a $5,000 wholesaler license fee and obtain a surety bond for $50,000.

→ Resource: South Dakota DOR – Liquor Retailers & Other Liquor Licenses

Tennessee Liquor License Requirements 

Obtaining a liquor license in Tennessee requires the following

• Detailed ownership and business information (legal entity type, officer/principal details)
• Proof of property control (lease or deed)
• Applicable license fee payment (varies per license class) 

Depending on the license type, additional documentation from your local government may also be required, such as a Certificate of Good Moral Character, zoning approval, and proof of sales.

→ Resource: Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission – Licensing

Texas Liquor License Requirements 

In Texas, obtaining a liquor license is conducted through the Alcohol Industry Management System (AIMS). It requires your business to be appropriately registered (by the Secretary of State & Comptroller), payment of the applicable license fee, and submission of your lease or deed for the premises. 

Other license types require you to post a public notice of your application, provide a bond or financial documentation, and register your business location. 

→ Resource: Texas Alcoholic Beverages Commission – New TABC Licenses and Permits

Utah Liquor License Requirements 

In Utah, you’ll apply through the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services (DABS) and must pass a background check for all key owners and managers. Requirements typically include:

• Local zoning or consent from your city/county 
• Lease or property deed
• Safety compliance as required by municipalities

Employees and managers must complete a training program before commencing work. 

→ Resource: Utah ABS – General Licensing Information

Virginia Liquor License Requirements 

When applying for a liquor state alcoholic beverage license in Virginia, you’ll generally need to submit the following:

• Business and individual entity information
• Virginia Sales Tax Certificate
• Property lease or deed 
• Payment for applicable license and criminal background check fees

Other retail licenses require other specific documentation. If you’re applying for a manufacturer, importer, or wholesaler license, you’ll need the necessary TTB permit. Local governments may also require layout or facility documentation, as well as zoning requirements. 

→ Resource: Virginia ABC Licensing 

Vermont Liquor License Requirements 

In Vermont, applications must first be approved at the local town level before proceeding to the state level. Pay the designated state and local fees and submit the following to the local town where your business will be held:

• Proof of business entity (Corporate, LLC, Partnership, or an Individual)
• Proof of property control (lease or deed)
• Criminal/motor vehicle records check for each principal

Servers must also complete a state-approved serving training course. 

Washington Liquor License Requirements 

Applicants in Washington can apply through the LCB via the Business Licensing Services (BLS) portal. Submit your business plan and other requested documents, including:

• Business structure
• Financing documents
• Lease or purchase agreements
• Floor plans
• Personal/criminal background check
• Public posting notification

→ Resource: Washing LCB – Apply for a Liquor License

West Virginia Liquor License Requirements 

In West Virginia, you’ll need to submit your application to the WVABCA and include documentation such as:

• Proof of property control (lease or deed)
• Required license and operational fee
• Full owner/officer background checks and fingerprinting
• Appropriate bonds (alcohol beverage bond or non-intoxicating beer bond)
• Zoning form and floor plan

→ Resource: West Virginia ABCA – Forms and Applications

Wisconsin Liquor License Requirements 

In Wisconsin, you typically need to apply through your local municipality and submit a completed application, pay the license fee, and hold a valid Wisconsin Seller’s Permit (if your business sells alcohol). Owners may need to undergo a criminal records check and complete a state-approved training course, along with their staff.

Wyoming Liquor License Requirements 

In Wyoming, a liquor license application requires the following: 

• Fee payment (varies by license type and location)
• Business entity documents 
• List of owners and partners 
• Proof of lease or property deed

If applying for a manufacturer or distributor license, you’ll need a federal basic permit. 

→ Resource: Wyoming Liquor Division – Applying for a License

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Liquor License Requirements FAQs