How to Get a Liquor License in Delaware?
If you’re planning to open a restaurant, bar, brewery, or liquor store in Delaware, one of the most important steps is obtaining a liquor license. This license is a legal requirement for selling or serving alcohol in the state, and the process can seem complex for first-timers.
Apr 3
But there’s more to responsible alcohol service than just securing a license. In Delaware, anyone who serves or sells alcohol must also complete certified alcohol server training. This ensures employees understand the laws, safety practices, and customer service strategies required to prevent underage sales and overconsumption. Our Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training helps bartenders, servers, managers, and owners comply with these requirements quickly and affordably.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about liquor licensing in Delaware — including license types, the application process, associated costs, and why training your staff is just as crucial as getting licensed.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about liquor licensing in Delaware — including license types, the application process, associated costs, and why training your staff is just as crucial as getting licensed.
Who Issues Liquor Licenses in Delaware?
In Delaware, the Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner (OABCC) is the only state agency authorized to issue liquor licenses. The OABCC is responsible for all aspects of alcohol licensing, including:
No other agency — state or local — can grant a liquor license. That said, certain cities and counties may require additional zoning or business permits, so always check with your local government to ensure full compliance.
- Reviewing and processing applications
- Inspecting premises
- Approving establishment modifications
- Renewing licenses
- Enforcing violations of alcohol laws
No other agency — state or local — can grant a liquor license. That said, certain cities and counties may require additional zoning or business permits, so always check with your local government to ensure full compliance.
Liquor License Types in Delaware
Delaware offers several different liquor license types depending on the kind of alcohol sold, the sales method, and the venue. Here are the most common:
Beer and Wine License: This license allows establishments to sell beer and wine only. It’s often used by cafes, bistros, or convenience stores and is generally less expensive than a full liquor license.
Full Liquor License: Businesses with this license can sell beer, wine, and spirits. It’s required for bars, nightclubs, and full-service restaurants offering cocktails or hard liquor.
On-Sale License: Required for places where alcohol is consumed on the premises, such as bars, lounges, or dine-in restaurants.
Off-Sale License: Authorizes the sale of packaged alcohol meant for off-premises consumption. This is commonly issued to liquor stores or beverage retailers.
Specialty Licenses: These include permits for unique venues or operations, such as:
Choosing the correct license is essential. Applying for the wrong one can delay your opening and incur unnecessary costs.
Beer and Wine License: This license allows establishments to sell beer and wine only. It’s often used by cafes, bistros, or convenience stores and is generally less expensive than a full liquor license.
Full Liquor License: Businesses with this license can sell beer, wine, and spirits. It’s required for bars, nightclubs, and full-service restaurants offering cocktails or hard liquor.
On-Sale License: Required for places where alcohol is consumed on the premises, such as bars, lounges, or dine-in restaurants.
Off-Sale License: Authorizes the sale of packaged alcohol meant for off-premises consumption. This is commonly issued to liquor stores or beverage retailers.
Specialty Licenses: These include permits for unique venues or operations, such as:
- Brewpubs – Establishments that brew beer and sell it on-site
- Microbreweries – Facilities producing smaller batches for sale and distribution
- Craft Distilleries – Locations making small-scale spirits
- Farm Wineries – Agricultural operations producing and selling wine
- Event Licenses – Temporary permits for alcohol service at special events like festivals or fundraisers
Choosing the correct license is essential. Applying for the wrong one can delay your opening and incur unnecessary costs.
How Much Does a Liquor License Cost in Delaware?
One of the most frequently asked questions is: how much is a liquor license in Delaware? The cost depends on the type of license and business model.
According to the OABCC Fee Schedule:
Additional costs to budget for:
Because these licenses must be renewed and kept in good standing, budgeting for ongoing compliance is just as important as paying the upfront fees.
According to the OABCC Fee Schedule:
- Beer and Wine Licenses: Start at approximately $300–$500 annually
- Full Liquor Licenses: Range from $1,000 to $3,000+ depending on size and venue
- Event Permits: Cost about $25–$100 for short-term use
- Specialty Licenses: Vary based on production capacity and service scope
Additional costs to budget for:
- Application filing fees
- Fingerprinting/background check fees
- City-level zoning or permit fees
- License renewal fees (typically annual)
Because these licenses must be renewed and kept in good standing, budgeting for ongoing compliance is just as important as paying the upfront fees.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Liquor License in Delaware
Here’s a simplified guide to obtaining a liquor license in Delaware:
Step 1: Determine the Right License Type
Start by evaluating your business model to identify whether you need an on-sale, off-sale, beer and wine, or full liquor license.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
These may include:
- Business formation documents (LLC or Corporation)
- Proof of zoning compliance from your city
- Lease or property ownership paperwork
- Personal identification
- Criminal background check
Step 3: Submit Application to the OABCC
Apply online via the OABCC website, or mail documents to their office in Dover. Application review can take several weeks.
Step 4: Post Public Notice (If Required)
Some applications require public notice or hearings. You may need to notify nearby residents and publish information in a local paper.
Step 5: Pass an Inspection
An OABCC officer will inspect your establishment to ensure compliance with layout, signage, and safety rules.
Step 6: Receive Your License
If all requirements are met, you’ll receive your official liquor license — and be able to legally sell alcohol in Delaware.
Step 7: Train Your Staff
Don’t forget: every server, bartender, or manager handling alcohol must complete responsible beverage service training to meet state law.
Key Challenges Around Getting a Liquor License in Delaware
- Understanding License Types: With multiple license types for on-sale, off-sale, beer-only, and specialty establishments, it can be overwhelming to determine which one fits your business model.
- High Cost and Fee Variability: Liquor license fees in Delaware vary by license type, and additional local fees may apply, which can surprise first-time applicants.
- Compliance Confusion: Many applicants are unaware of local zoning, training, or compliance requirements, delaying approvals or triggering violations.
- Public Notice Requirements: Some license types require public hearings or notices, which adds time and complexity to the process.
- Renewal Management: License renewals are required and missing deadlines can result in costly interruptions or fines.
- Training Gaps for Staff: Business owners often forget that staff must complete alcohol training certification — a separate legal requirement.
- Misconceptions About the Licensing Authority: Applicants may incorrectly approach local city offices instead of the Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner (OABCC), which is the state’s sole licensing authority.
Trends and Innovations in Delaware Alcohol Licensing
- Online Licensing Tools: The OABCC has streamlined parts of the licensing process with online forms and digital submissions, making it easier to track applications.
- Growth of Craft Licensing: Demand is rising for specialty licenses such as microbrewery, brewpub, and farm winery permits, reflecting the craft beverage boom.
- Increased Emphasis on Alcohol Training: With heightened awareness around responsible alcohol service, more employers are proactively enrolling their staff in approved certification programs.
- Hybrid Licensing Models: Some businesses are applying for both on-sale and off-sale licenses to diversify revenue streams.
- Data-Driven Enforcement: The OABCC uses licensing data and violation reports to target inspections and ensure compliance.
Alcohol Training Certification: What Delaware Businesses Need to Know
While liquor licensing gives your business legal authority to sell alcohol, it doesn’t cover your team. In Delaware, alcohol training certification is required for anyone who sells or serves alcohol.
This training focuses on responsible service practices like:
Without training, your team could inadvertently break the law — putting your license at risk. That’s why business owners and managers must ensure their staff is certified before opening.
Our Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training meets state standards and is suitable for bartenders, servers, sellers, and managers. It’s an easy, online option to get your team compliant quickly and affordably.
This training focuses on responsible service practices like:
- Checking IDs properly
- Recognizing signs of intoxication
- Handling intoxicated customers
- Preventing underage sales
Without training, your team could inadvertently break the law — putting your license at risk. That’s why business owners and managers must ensure their staff is certified before opening.
Our Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training meets state standards and is suitable for bartenders, servers, sellers, and managers. It’s an easy, online option to get your team compliant quickly and affordably.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Licensing Process
- Start Early: It can take weeks (or longer) to get approval, so plan ahead.
- Stay Organized: Keep a checklist of all documents needed.
- Budget Wisely: Don’t forget about application, renewal, and training fees.
- Get Zoning Approval First: Ensure your city allows alcohol sales at your chosen location.
- Train Your Team Promptly: Don’t wait until after opening day to certify your staff.
Secure Your License and Serve Responsibly in Delaware
Getting a liquor license in Delaware is an essential step for opening any alcohol-serving establishment. Whether you’re launching a local bar, expanding a restaurant, or operating a retail store, understanding the process — from license types to public notices and staff certification — is critical for long-term success.
But don’t forget: a liquor license gives your business legal permission, while alcohol certification gives your staff the knowledge to serve safely and legally. That’s why our Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training is a must-have for every bartender, server, and manager.
With the right license, trained team, and full compliance, you’re not just opening a business — you’re building a responsible and respected establishment in the Delaware community.
But don’t forget: a liquor license gives your business legal permission, while alcohol certification gives your staff the knowledge to serve safely and legally. That’s why our Delaware Alcohol Awareness Training is a must-have for every bartender, server, and manager.
With the right license, trained team, and full compliance, you’re not just opening a business — you’re building a responsible and respected establishment in the Delaware community.