How to Get a liquor license in Mississippi?

Getting licensed is just one part of the equation. If you employ bartenders, servers, or anyone handling alcohol, it’s critical to make sure they’re trained. While Mississippi does not require alcohol awareness certification at the state level, many local jurisdictions, employers, and insurance providers do. Programs like Mississippi Alcohol Awareness Training help your staff serve responsibly and keep your business protected.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full process of obtaining a liquor license in Mississippi—including license types, applications, costs, timelines, and training best practices—so you can stay compliant and focus on running a successful alcohol-serving business.

Unlike other states, Mississippi operates under a state-controlled liquor system. That means the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages are overseen by the Mississippi Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), a division of the Mississippi Department of Revenue. If you're planning to sell or serve alcohol, your application must pass through this agency.

However, it doesn’t stop there. Before your application reaches ABC, you must first ensure that your business location complies with local zoning laws, obtain support from your city or county board, and meet any municipality-specific requirements. Some local governments may also require public hearings before issuing their approval.

The state’s control model ensures uniformity in pricing and policy enforcement. For example, package retailers must purchase their alcohol inventory from ABC warehouses. This centralized approach reduces black-market risk but adds additional oversight and steps for business owners.

ABC also maintains authority over:

• Issuance and renewal of licenses
• Enforcement of alcohol laws
• Inspections and compliance reviews

Bottom line? Your license journey begins locally and ends with the state.

Mississippi offers several distinct liquor license types depending on how and where alcohol will be sold or served. Below is a breakdown of the most common categories:

Issued to liquor stores and other businesses selling sealed containers of liquor for off-premises consumption. You cannot allow customers to consume alcohol on the premises.

Used by restaurants, bars, and clubs, this license allows the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages on the business premises. You must meet health department and seating capacity regulations.

Ideal for businesses providing alcohol service at off-site events. This requires an existing on-premises permit.

Allows alcohol service at nonprofit or charitable events, typically valid for a single day or short event duration.

Required for individuals managing an alcohol-selling business. Mississippi law requires a manager permit for all persons directly overseeing alcohol operations.

These include limited-use permits for festivals, tastings, or promotional events where alcohol will be offered under unique circumstances.

Some licenses, like the manager’s permit, are tied to individual qualifications and must be applied for separately by each person.

Applying for a liquor license in Mississippi involves multiple phases. Here's a detailed walk-through:

Before filing anything with ABC, you must check your business location with your local zoning board or planning office. Some areas may restrict alcohol sales entirely or impose distance requirements from schools and churches.

Expect to provide:

• Government-issued ID
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or residency
• Lease agreement or property deed
• Health and fire inspection certificates (on-premises licenses only)
• Business formation documents (e.g., LLC certificate)
• Floor plans
• Sales tax ID

Applications are submitted online through the Mississippi ABC website. The site offers downloadable forms, fee schedules, and submission instructions.

License fees vary by type. Some permits require fingerprinting and background checks, especially for new manager permit holders or business owners.

Once submitted, ABC conducts a review. Inspectors may visit your premises and verify the legitimacy of your business setup. They also assess compliance with public safety standards.

The full process typically takes 4–8 weeks, though complex or incomplete applications may extend beyond that.

Your total investment will vary depending on the type of license, your business size, and location. Here’s a general guide to common costs:

• Package Retailer Permit: $900–$1,200 annually
• On-Premises Retailer Permit: $450–$900 annually
• Manager’s Permit: ~$50–$100
• Catering Permit: Additional $50–$200 per year (with existing license)
• Temporary Permit: $25–$100 per event
  
  

Other potential expenses:

• Fingerprinting and background check fees
• Public hearing and advertising costs (for zoning or business license approval)
• Insurance premiums for liquor liability coverage
• Training costs for staff certification

These licenses must be renewed annually and may be subject to fines if not kept current.

Mississippi does not have a statewide mandate requiring servers and bartenders to be alcohol-certified. However, many local jurisdictions do require training—and many businesses voluntarily implement it to protect themselves legally.

Why you should train your staff anyway:

• Insurance providers may require certified servers for liability coverage
• Certification helps staff avoid serving minors or visibly intoxicated guests
• It reduces your risk of violations, fines, or license suspension
• Trained staff perform better, with more confidence and professionalism

Programs like Mississippi Alcohol Awareness Training offer an easy and accessible way to meet these needs. It’s suitable for:

• Bartenders
• Servers
• Store clerks
• Event staff
• Restaurant and bar managers

The training typically takes 2–3 hours and is valid for three years.

New to the Mississippi liquor licensing process? These tips will keep you on the right path:

1. Start with Local Zoning Approval: If your area restricts alcohol sales, your state application won’t move forward.
2. Review ABC’s Website Thoroughly: They have a full list of license types, fees, and PDF checklists to help you gather everything.
3. Train Your Team Before Opening: Even if not required by law, get ahead of the game with Mississippi Alcohol Awareness Training.
4. Don’t Skip Insurance: Liquor liability insurance is not just good business—it may be legally or contractually required.
5. Use a Licensing Consultant if Needed: Complex applications (e.g., multi-location catering or mobile bars) benefit from expert help.
6. Plan for Delays: Public hearings, inspections, and application reviews all take time—pad your timeline accordingly.

If you're starting a business that serves or sells alcohol in Mississippi, securing the proper liquor license is essential—not just to stay legal, but to build a foundation of safety, trust, and community credibility. With the Mississippi Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) overseeing all licenses, you must follow a clear—but often multi-step—process involving local approvals, documentation, and state submission.

But remember: a liquor license only covers your business. For true compliance and safe service, your staff must be trained. While the state doesn’t mandate alcohol awareness training, local governments, insurance carriers, and smart business policies make it a must. Courses like Mississippi Alcohol Awareness Training give your bartenders, servers, and managers the tools to avoid underage service, manage intoxicated guests, and protect your establishment.

With the right license—and a well-trained team—you’re not just opening your doors, you’re creating a compliant, responsible, and successful business rooted in Mississippi hospitality.