Liquor Licensing

Apply to your ABC Get in touch with your state licensing authority to learn the eligibility requirements and get an application. Some states let you apply for your license online.

I recommend:  Here's the complete contact list for each state's boards and licensing authorities. Some states have several boards. Contact the one nearest to you.

Buy a license Brokers specialize in matching buyers and sellers of liquor licenses.

I recommend:  Try Liquor License Specialists, Liquor License Experts or Amlex.

Use an expediter Professionals specialize in seeing your application through all the state and local hoops.

I recommend:  License brokers can do the job for you or hire a member of the member of the National Association of Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Attorneys.

Get the word out Certain states require that on-premise businesses notify the appropriate government entity (village, town, or city clerk) of an application for a state liquor license.

I recommend:  If necessary, post required public notice of your application for an on-premises state liquor license. This may include publishing notice in a newspaper. Look at myPublicNotices.com for examples.

Avoid government monopolies Forget about your career as a liquor store owner In 18 states and one county -- the government holds all the licenses.

I recommend:  Here's the list of jurisdictions where governments have the monopoly.

If you're a producer, exporter, importer or wholesaler… You and your business partners must apply for a federal license.

I recommend:  The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) issues permits that you'll need before conducting your business in beer, wine or distilled spirits.