Do I Need a License or Certification to Open a Liquor Store?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
If you're planning to open a liquor store, one of the first questions you'll face is: Do I need a license or certification? The answer is a resounding yes. Selling alcohol in the United States is one of the most regulated retail activities, and operating without the proper licenses and certifications can result in hefty fines—or even business closure.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping liquor store owners protect their businesses with tailored insurance coverage. But we also understand the legal landscape. This guide breaks down the licenses and certifications you need to legally and responsibly open a liquor store.
What Is a Liquor License?
A liquor license is a legal permit that allows you to sell alcoholic beverages. It’s issued by your state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) board or similar regulatory agency. The license type you need depends on:
What kind of alcohol you plan to sell (beer, wine, spirits)
Whether alcohol is consumed on-site or off-site
Your store’s location and hours of operation
Local zoning laws and proximity to schools or churches
Types of Liquor Licenses for Retail Stores
Most liquor stores require an off-premise retail license, which allows you to sell alcohol for consumption elsewhere. Other license types include:
Beer and Wine License: For stores selling only beer and wine
Full Liquor License: For stores selling spirits, wine, and beer
Dual Licenses: For stores offering tastings or on-site consumption
Do You Need Certification to Sell Alcohol?
Yes—alcohol seller-server certification is often required for owners and employees. This certification ensures that staff understand:
How to check IDs and verify age
How to recognize signs of intoxication
How to refuse service responsibly
State-specific alcohol laws and compliance rules
Common Licensing and Certification Requirements
Here’s what most states require to open a liquor store:
Retail Liquor License (from your state ABC agency)
General Business License (from your city or county)
Zoning and Occupancy Permits
Sales Tax Registration
Federal EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Alcohol Seller-Server Certification (for owners and staff)
How Long Does It Take to Get Licensed?
Processing times vary by state:
Fast-track states: 30–45 days (e.g., Washington, North Dakota)
Slower states: 3–6 months (e.g., New York, California)
Quota states: May require purchasing an existing license due to limited availability
Why Insurance Is Legally and Financially Essential
Insurance isn’t just smart—it’s often required by law or landlords. At Wexford Insurance, we help liquor store owners secure the coverage they need to operate legally and confidently.
Liquor Liability Insurance – Covers alcohol-related incidents involving customers
General Liability Insurance – Protects against injuries and property damage
Commercial Property Insurance – Covers theft, fire, and vandalism
Workers Compensation Insurance – Required if you hire employees
Equipment Insurance – Protects refrigeration units, shelving, POS systems, and other essential store equipment from damage, breakdown, or theft
Commercial Auto Insurance – If you offer delivery or use company vehicles
Final Thoughts
Opening a liquor store without the proper license and certification is not only illegal—it’s risky. From state-level retail liquor licenses to alcohol seller-server training, compliance is key to protecting your business and building trust with your customers.
At Wexford Insurance, we help liquor store owners navigate the regulatory landscape and secure the insurance coverage they need. Whether you're just starting out or expanding your operations, our niche-focused insurance programs are designed for the alcohol retail industry.
Ready to protect your liquor store?
Contact us today.
