How to Get a Liquor License in California?
If you're starting a restaurant, bar, liquor store, or brewery in California, one of the first hurdles you’ll need to clear is getting a liquor license. With thousands of licenses issued across the state and strict regulations enforced by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), this process can be confusing and time-consuming.
Mar 31
Whether you're a business owner setting up shop in Los Angeles, a manager in San Francisco, or a server in San Diego, it's essential to understand the requirements for legally selling or serving alcohol. Equally important is ensuring that your team has completed the necessary Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification — a mandatory training requirement for staff in establishments with on-sale alcohol licenses. Our California Alcohol Server Training makes this process fast, easy, and state-compliant.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down the different types of California liquor licenses, the costs involved, how to apply, training requirements, and key compliance tips for smooth sailing.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down the different types of California liquor licenses, the costs involved, how to apply, training requirements, and key compliance tips for smooth sailing.
Who Regulates Liquor Licenses in California?
The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is the only agency in the state that issues liquor licenses. Established in 1955, the ABC governs all alcohol-related activities under the California Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which is part of the state’s Business and Professions Code.
ABC handles more than 80,000 active licenses across California. Its responsibilities include:
The ABC operates through local district offices, and all applications must be submitted directly through these channels. No other state or city agency has the authority to issue or approve a liquor license.
ABC handles more than 80,000 active licenses across California. Its responsibilities include:
- Issuing on-sale and off-sale licenses to eligible businesses
- Conducting background checks and public hearings
- Enforcing compliance through inspections and penalties
- Preventing sales to minors or intoxicated persons
The ABC operates through local district offices, and all applications must be submitted directly through these channels. No other state or city agency has the authority to issue or approve a liquor license.
Types of Liquor Licenses in California
California liquor licenses are categorized based on where the alcohol is sold or consumed (on-site vs. off-site), the type of alcohol sold, and the nature of the business. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
Off-Sale Licenses
Type 20 is an Off-Sale Beer and Wine License. This allows businesses such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and some gas stations to sell beer and wine for consumption off the premises. It does not permit the sale of distilled spirits.
Type 21 is the Off-Sale General License. This license is typically used by liquor stores and other retailers who wish to sell beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-premises consumption.
Type 21 is the Off-Sale General License. This license is typically used by liquor stores and other retailers who wish to sell beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-premises consumption.
On-Sale Licenses
Type 41 is the On-Sale Beer and Wine – Eating Place License. Restaurants that do not serve hard liquor but want to serve beer and wine with meals can apply for this license. Distilled spirits are prohibited under this type.
Type 47 is the On-Sale General – Eating Place License. This is for full-service restaurants that wish to serve beer, wine, and distilled spirits on the premises. At least 50% of the establishment’s revenue must come from food sales.
Type 48 is the On-Sale General – Public Premises License. This license is intended for bars, nightclubs, and lounges that serve all types of alcohol but do not serve food and do not allow minors on the premises.
Type 75 is the On-Sale General – Brewpub License. This license is typically issued to breweries that produce beer on-site and wish to serve beer, wine, and spirits in a restaurant-style setting.
Type 47 is the On-Sale General – Eating Place License. This is for full-service restaurants that wish to serve beer, wine, and distilled spirits on the premises. At least 50% of the establishment’s revenue must come from food sales.
Type 48 is the On-Sale General – Public Premises License. This license is intended for bars, nightclubs, and lounges that serve all types of alcohol but do not serve food and do not allow minors on the premises.
Type 75 is the On-Sale General – Brewpub License. This license is typically issued to breweries that produce beer on-site and wish to serve beer, wine, and spirits in a restaurant-style setting.
Manufacturing Licenses
Type 01 is the Beer Manufacturer License. Breweries producing more than 60,000 barrels of beer annually require this license. It permits sales to licensed retailers and on-site tastings.
Type 02 is the Winegrower License. This license applies to wineries that produce and sell wine. On-site tastings and food service in affiliated areas are permitted under certain conditions.
Type 02 is the Winegrower License. This license applies to wineries that produce and sell wine. On-site tastings and food service in affiliated areas are permitted under certain conditions.
Specialty Licenses
Type 07 is the Rectifier License. This permit allows the blending, rectifying, and packaging of distilled spirits or wine for sale to licensed retailers.
Type 17 is the Beer and Wine Wholesaler License, which allows incidental sales of beer and wine to other licensed businesses.
Type 37 is the Daily General License, typically issued for short-term fundraising events where alcohol will be sold to the public.
Type 77 is the Event Permit, which allows licensed establishments to temporarily expand alcohol service to adjacent properties during special events.
Type 17 is the Beer and Wine Wholesaler License, which allows incidental sales of beer and wine to other licensed businesses.
Type 37 is the Daily General License, typically issued for short-term fundraising events where alcohol will be sold to the public.
Type 77 is the Event Permit, which allows licensed establishments to temporarily expand alcohol service to adjacent properties during special events.
How Much Does a Liquor License Cost in California?
One of the most important questions prospective business owners ask is: How much is a liquor license in California? The answer varies significantly depending on the license type, location, and market availability.
Here’s a general breakdown:
In highly competitive counties like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, Type 47 and 48 licenses are limited in number. As a result, many businesses purchase licenses from existing holders through brokers or license exchanges, which can significantly drive up the cost.
In addition to the base license fee, other costs may include:
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Type 20 or Type 41: $100 to $400 annually (application fees may vary by location)
- Type 21 or Type 47: $1,000 to $15,000+ (depending on availability and market demand)
- Type 48: $12,000 to $50,000+ on the open market
- Type 01/02 (Manufacturing): Varies, but often in the $1,000–$5,000 range
In highly competitive counties like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, Type 47 and 48 licenses are limited in number. As a result, many businesses purchase licenses from existing holders through brokers or license exchanges, which can significantly drive up the cost.
In addition to the base license fee, other costs may include:
- Local zoning approval and conditional use permits
- ABC application fees and processing fees
- Legal or brokerage services (if acquiring on the open market)
- Background check and fingerprinting fees
How to Get a Liquor License in California: Step-by-Step
If you're ready to apply for a liquor license in California, here's a basic roadmap to follow:
Step 1: Identify the Appropriate License Type
Review your business model, hours of operation, and alcohol service goals to determine which license suits your needs best. Visit ABC’s official licensing page to explore license types and use their “License Type Query” tool.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Before applying, gather the following:
- Business formation documents (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
- Zoning permits or CUP (Conditional Use Permit) from your local planning office
- California seller’s permit from the CDTFA
- Lease agreement or proof of property ownership
- Site plans or floor plans
- Escrow agreements (if purchasing an existing license)
Step 3: Submit Your Application to the Local ABC Office
Applications are filed with your local ABC district office. Most require an in-person appointment. Applications may take 30–90 days or more, depending on complexity.
Step 4: Undergo Background Checks and Public Notice Posting
The ABC will conduct a background check on the applicant(s), and you’ll be required to post a public notice at your business location for 30 days to allow for community input or objections.
Step 5: Inspection and Final Approval
An ABC inspector will visit your premises to ensure compliance. If approved, your license will be issued, and you’ll be legally allowed to begin alcohol service.
RBS Certification: Mandatory Training for Alcohol Servers
In California, a liquor license isn’t the only legal requirement when it comes to alcohol service. Anyone who serves or manages the sale of alcohol at an on-sale licensed location must also complete Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification.
This training is required by law for servers, bartenders, managers, and even some supervisors. It teaches:
California’s RBS training became mandatory in 2022 under Assembly Bill 1221. Businesses are responsible for ensuring their staff completes the certification through a state-approved provider.
Our California Alcohol Server Training program is officially recognized and provides all the necessary modules your team needs to comply with the law and serve safely.
This training is required by law for servers, bartenders, managers, and even some supervisors. It teaches:
- How to prevent underage sales
- How to identify signs of intoxication
- The legal liabilities of over-serving
- Best practices for checking IDs and handling difficult situations
California’s RBS training became mandatory in 2022 under Assembly Bill 1221. Businesses are responsible for ensuring their staff completes the certification through a state-approved provider.
Our California Alcohol Server Training program is officially recognized and provides all the necessary modules your team needs to comply with the law and serve safely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-intentioned businesses can run into trouble during the liquor license process. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Applying for the wrong license type: Double-check the qualifications for each type before applying.
- Skipping local requirements: City zoning permits or CUPs are often needed before applying.
- Delaying RBS training: All on-sale staff must be certified before alcohol service begins.
- Assuming cost is fixed: Market prices vary, especially for Type 47 and 48 licenses.
- Not budgeting enough time: Licensing can take months — start early.
Final Thoughts: Getting Licensed and Staying Compliant
Getting a liquor license in California can be a complicated journey — but with the right information and preparation, it’s entirely manageable. From choosing the right license type to completing all paperwork and ensuring staff is properly trained, each step plays a critical role in your long-term success.
Remember, your liquor license is only half the battle. California law also requires alcohol-handling staff to complete RBS training to ensure responsible service and reduce legal risk. Our California Alcohol Server Training offers a convenient, state-approved way to get your team certified quickly and affordably.
With your license in hand and your staff trained, you’ll be well on your way to running a safe, successful, and fully compliant alcohol-serving business in California.
Remember, your liquor license is only half the battle. California law also requires alcohol-handling staff to complete RBS training to ensure responsible service and reduce legal risk. Our California Alcohol Server Training offers a convenient, state-approved way to get your team certified quickly and affordably.
With your license in hand and your staff trained, you’ll be well on your way to running a safe, successful, and fully compliant alcohol-serving business in California.