How to Get a Liquor License in Illinois?

Navigating the licensing process can feel overwhelming. Between the local approvals, state requirements, and choosing from dozens of license types, it’s easy to feel lost. But don’t worry — this guide walks you through the process, step by step.

In Illinois, all liquor licenses are regulated by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC), while alcohol servers must also complete BASSET (Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training) certification. Our Illinois Alcohol Awareness Training is a BASSET-compliant option designed for bartenders, managers, and servers who want to serve alcohol responsibly and legally.

Let’s explore what licenses are available, how much they cost, how to apply, and how you can train your team for success.

One major hurdle is the dual-licensing requirement. Before you can apply for a state liquor license through the ILCC, you must first obtain a local liquor license from your city or county. This two-step process adds complexity, especially for first-time applicants.

Another common issue is understanding which license you need. With over 39 license types available, selecting the right one for your operation — whether it’s a restaurant, brewery, or mobile catering service — can be confusing.

Costs can also be unpredictable. Fees vary by license type, location, and municipality. And don’t forget the time factor — the process can take weeks or even months due to required inspections, hearings, and background checks.

Also, many applicants are unaware of the requirement for alcohol training certification. Illinois mandates BASSET training for employees who serve or sell alcohol, and failure to comply can delay your opening or result in fines.

Finally, there’s the issue of renewal. Late renewals can incur penalties or, worse, suspension. Staying organized and on top of deadlines is critical.

There are a few innovations and trends making the process more manageable. For starters, the ILCC now allows online applications, which simplifies submissions and reduces turnaround time. There’s also been a rise in interest in craft beverage operations, prompting more applications for brewpub and distillery licenses.

Special Event and Temporary Licenses are becoming increasingly popular as businesses diversify through pop-ups and festivals. Additionally, enforcement of BASSET certification has increased, so training your staff before opening is more important than ever.

As more businesses embrace mobile bartending and alcohol catering services, the state has begun offering clearer guidelines for Caterer Retailer and Event licenses.

Illinois regulates liquor licensing at both the local and state levels. That means you must start by contacting your city or county government to secure local approval before moving on to the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) for a state license.

The ILCC oversees licensing statewide and reviews applications through its Licensing Division. From there, you’ll be required to submit forms, undergo inspections, and provide proof of local compliance.

The types of licenses vary widely, so knowing which one suits your business is essential.

Before applying to the ILCC, your local government must grant approval. This typically involves checking zoning restrictions, submitting paperwork, attending hearings, and paying a local licensing fee. Requirements vary, so check with your city clerk or county liquor commission.

Illinois offers many licenses, and each is tailored to a specific type of operation. The Retailer’s License is common for bars and restaurants that serve alcohol on-site. There are also licenses for caterers, special events, manufacturers, distributors, and brewpubs.

If you’re hosting a festival, you’ll need a Special Event License. If you're brewing your own beer and serving it in-house, a Brew Pub License is your best bet. If you’re distributing alcohol, a Distributor License is required.

Once you have your local license in hand, head to the ILCC’s licensing portal. You’ll need to provide your business license, lease or deed, insurance certificate, federal tax ID, and any corporate documentation.

Processing times can vary, so be sure to submit everything correctly the first time to avoid delays.

In Illinois, all alcohol servers, bartenders, and sellers must be BASSET-certified. This training covers legal responsibilities, how to spot intoxication, and how to prevent underage sales.

To get your team certified, check out our Illinois Alcohol Awareness Training. It's approved, easy to access online, and meets all state BASSET requirements.

After submission, your location may undergo an inspection by ILCC or local officials. This ensures compliance with safety and storage standards. Once you pass, your license will be issued — and you can start selling legally.

Illinois has a wide variety of license types. Here are a few common ones:

• Retailer’s License: $750 to $1,500 annually, allows on-site alcohol sales.
• Special Event License: $25 per day, great for one-time festivals or fundraisers.
• Caterer’s License: $500 to $1,000 annually, for mobile alcohol service.
• Manufacturer’s License: Starts at $900, required for breweries and distilleries.

Keep in mind these are state fees. Your local government may charge additional licensing or application fees that range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on location.

Need to verify your license status or lookup another business? Use the ILCC License Lookup Tool. It’s handy for:

• Checking your renewal date
• Viewing licensing history
• Confirming other vendors’ licenses

Renewals are typically annual. The ILCC sends out reminders, but it's your responsibility to stay compliant. Late renewals result in fines and possible suspension.

Let’s clear up a common confusion. A liquor license is issued to your business by the ILCC and allows you to legally sell or serve alcohol. A BASSET certification, on the other hand, is issued to individuals — your staff — and ensures they are trained in responsible alcohol service.

In Illinois, BASSET training is required by law for any employee who serves, sells, or checks IDs. Business owners who ignore this requirement risk fines and potential liability if something goes wrong.

Make training part of your onboarding process. Our Illinois Alcohol Awareness Training offers a quick, easy, and affordable way to stay compliant.

Start early. Give yourself plenty of time for paperwork, approvals, and possible delays. If you’re not sure which license you need, speak to your local liquor commission or business attorney.

Make sure your staff is trained before opening. Not only is it required — it shows you take responsible service seriously. Always keep your license and BASSET records on file and visible in your establishment.

Be proactive about renewals. Put your renewal dates in your calendar and pay early to avoid issues.

Getting a liquor license in Illinois is a multi-step process, but with the right preparation, it's absolutely doable. Start local, move through the state application, and make sure your team is BASSET-certified. Whether you're opening a cocktail lounge in Chicago or launching a craft brewery in Bloomington, a clear understanding of licensing laws will set you up for success.

Don’t forget — while a liquor license lets your business sell alcohol, your staff needs proper training to serve it responsibly. The Illinois Alcohol Awareness Training can help your team meet legal requirements, protect your business, and create a safer, more professional environment.

Here’s to getting licensed the right way — cheers to your next business milestone!