How to Get an Idaho Liquor License?

In Idaho, liquor licensing is handled by the Idaho State Police’s Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Division. Getting a license is not always fast or straightforward — especially with the infamous waiting list in some cities. That’s why business owners and alcohol service professionals alike need clarity and preparation.

Equally important is making sure your team is trained for responsible service. While not required by law, completing a program like the Idaho Alcohol Awareness Training gives bartenders, servers, and managers the tools to safely and legally serve alcohol — a smart step for businesses serious about compliance and customer safety.

In this guide, we’ll break down the license types, costs, waiting list, and requirements, and explain how to get licensed for Idaho’s hospitality industry.

In Idaho, liquor licenses are regulated by the Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Division under the Idaho State Police. However, local city and county governments also play a vital role in the approval process.

This means your business must go through a two-step approval process:

1. Get Local Approval: Before the state can consider your liquor license application, you must first receive local approval. This usually involves zoning checks, public hearings, and business license verification.
2. Apply with the State: Once your local jurisdiction signs off, you’ll submit your license application to the Idaho ABC.

Each county and city can have its own additional requirements regarding license caps, proximity restrictions (e.g., distance from schools or churches), and hours of operation. So, being aware of your local rules is crucial.

Idaho offers several types of licenses. Your first step is determining which one your business needs.

• Beer and Wine License – Permits the sale of beer and wine, excluding spirits.
• Full Liquor License – Allows for the sale of spirits in addition to beer and wine.
• On-Premises License – Required for establishments where alcohol is consumed on-site, such as bars or restaurants.
• Off-Premises License – Needed by liquor stores or retailers selling sealed alcohol for off-site consumption.
• Special Permits – Event-based or catering licenses that are temporary.

Next, check with your local city or county clerk to determine if licenses are available in your area. Some cities operate under a quota system, where the number of licenses is based on population.

If licenses aren’t available, you’ll need to either:

• Join the waiting list, which can take years in some areas like Boise.
• Buy a license from a current holder, which can be very expensive.

Once you’ve confirmed availability, it’s time to gather documents and apply:

• Completed application form
• Business license
• Site plan/floor plan
• Personal ID and background check for the applicant(s)
• Proof of local approval

Fees will vary but typically range from $100 to $500 depending on the license type and location.

Depending on your local laws, you might be required to:

• Post public notices of your intent to serve alcohol
• Attend a hearing with the city council or licensing board
• Answer questions about your business operations

Once everything is submitted, the state ABC Division will review your application, conduct a site inspection, and notify you of the outcome.

This process can take 30 to 90 days or more, depending on the complexity and location.

Idaho’s license system is tailored to fit the needs of different businesses:

• Beer and Wine License: Best for cafes, small restaurants, or specialty grocers.
• Full Liquor License: Required for bars, nightclubs, and upscale dining establishments.
• On-Premises License: Covers establishments like breweries, taprooms, and restaurants.
• Off-Premises License: Needed for businesses like grocery stores or liquor outlets.
• Catering/Special Event Permits: Temporary permits for one-day events, weddings, or festivals.

 Each license type has specific use limitations, hours, and renewal procedures.

State application fees typically fall between $100 and $500, depending on the license. But those costs are just the beginning.

In places with license caps, businesses often purchase licenses on the secondary market. Costs here can soar to $10,000 – $100,000 or more, especially in cities with high demand.

Other costs include:

• Fingerprinting/background check fees
• Posting/public notice costs
• Annual renewal fees

Be sure to ask your local authority and the Idaho ABC for an exact fee schedule based on your location and license type.

In high-demand areas, you’ll encounter a waiting list system. For example, Boise and Coeur d’Alene often have more demand than available full liquor licenses.

Here’s what to know:

• You must apply to get on the waiting list.
• It can take years to receive a license this way.
• If you want to open sooner, you may need to buy a license from someone else.

Make sure to factor this timeline into your business plan.

A liquor license is for the business. But if you’re hiring bartenders, servers, or even selling wine in a retail shop, your staff may need alcohol server training.

While not required by Idaho law, training is:

• Often mandated by employers for liability protection.
• Strongly encouraged by the Idaho ABC.
• Seen as a standard best practice for responsible service.

Idaho Alcohol Awareness Training teaches:

• How to check IDs correctly
• How to recognize signs of intoxication
• When and how to refuse service

Whether you manage a bar or serve drinks at a catered event, being trained shows your commitment to safety and compliance.

Start Early: If your city has a waiting list, get on it ASAP. These lists move slowly.

Research Local Laws: Licensing processes vary by city. Boise, Nampa, and Twin Falls may each have unique requirements.

Keep Good Records: Application delays often come from missing documents.

Speak to the Community: Especially in smaller towns, it helps to build goodwill before public hearings.

Certify Your Staff: Certification protects your business and helps with customer safety.

Renew on Time: Most licenses expire annually. Late renewals can lead to penalties or suspension.

Getting a liquor license in Idaho takes time, planning, and knowledge of both state and local rules. Whether you’re launching a trendy downtown bar or a family-owned market, understanding the process — and staying organized — will save you stress and money.

And while a liquor license gives you the legal right to sell alcohol, it’s your staff’s training that ensures it’s done safely and responsibly. Completing Idaho Alcohol Awareness Training is one of the smartest moves a business owner can make.

By combining the right license with proper training and preparation, you can launch your Idaho alcohol-serving business the right way — and serve your community with professionalism and care.