A great deal of planning and organizing can go into launching a new bar or restaurant for the first time. Alongside finding suitable premises and decorating, you must also obtain a liquor license to ensure you can sell alcohol legally in your state. 

It’s only natural not to understand how the process works when you’re only just starting your new business. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t be well-informed before long. You can find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about obtaining liquor licenses below. 

Do I Need a Lawyer to Obtain a Liquor License?

While you don’t legally need a lawyer to help you obtain a liquor license, it’s often recommended. They have an in-depth understanding of how the process works and strive to make it faster and less stressful. The less of your own time you have to spend navigating the liquor licensing process, the more time you can spend planning the official launch of your new business. 

How Do I Get a Liquor License in the USA?

Most people obtaining a liquor license for the first time won’t know all the steps they need to take to be successful. What’s more, those steps can differ from state to state. There are usually four steps involved in the process, including: 

1. Research your state and local government laws to learn the requirements
2. Apply for a liquor license with your area’s alcohol control agency
3. Obtain additional business permits where required, such as a business license and health permit
4. Wait for your license to be approved 

How Much Does a Liquor License Cost?

Opening a new bar or restaurant can be expensive, running into the tens of thousands of dollars. Keeping track of all related costs can be important for ensuring you don’t run over budget. As a result, it’s only natural to question how much a liquor license costs. 

The costs associated with a liquor license can vary depending on the license you’re applying for and where you’re using it. The average application cost can be around $3,000, while the filing costs can range from $100 to over $14,000. Many factors can contribute to a license’s cost, such as the license type, whether you need additional permits, and if someone has tried to stop you from obtaining one. In such situations, you may need to spend money to defend your proposal. 

Do You Need to Have a License to Serve Alcohol?

It doesn’t matter where in the United States you are, you must have a license to serve alcohol in a bar or restaurant. You may face fines, penalties, and even business closure if you don’t have one. 

What Liquor License Do I Need?

The type of liquor license you need can depend on the type of business you’re launching. You can choose from off-license and on-license, depending on whether you’re selling alcohol to be consumed on-location or off-location.

You may also be required to obtain specific tavern, beer and wine, and restaurant licenses. Alongside these licenses to sell alcohol, you may also need food service licenses and even music licenses if you’ll be playing background music on your business premises. 

There can be much to organize as you get ready to launch a new business. Now that you understand the basics of obtaining a liquor license, you may feel more confident to proceed with this process either by yourself or with the help of a trusted business lawyer.