How to Get a Liquor License in North Carolina?

Administered by the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Commission, liquor licenses (ABC permits) are essential for businesses that manufacture, sell, or serve alcohol in the state. And just as crucial, individuals involved in alcohol service are expected to complete alcohol seller/server training.

Whether you're a seasoned restaurateur, a local entrepreneur, or a bartender pursuing a side hustle, this guide will walk you through the process of getting a liquor license in North Carolina, from types and costs to application steps and training. We'll also cover compliance tips, licensing trends, and how to ensure your staff is prepared to serve alcohol responsibly.

Navigating the ABC permit system in North Carolina comes with its fair share of roadblocks. Here's what aspiring licensees typically encounter:

• Confusing Permit Types: With more than 20 ABC permits to choose from—each for different business models and alcohol types—selecting the right one can be overwhelming.
  
  
• Local Authority Approval: In addition to state-level requirements, many applicants must secure approval from city or county governing bodies.
  
  
• Permit Stacking: Most businesses require multiple permits to operate legally. For example, a restaurant serving beer, wine, and cocktails will need three separate permits.
  
  
• Strict Documentation: Applicants must provide detailed floor plans, lease agreements, background checks, and proof of training.
  
  
• Training Requirements: Responsible alcohol seller/server training is a mandatory part of the permit application process.
  
  
• Ongoing Compliance: After approval, maintaining compliance through renewals, updated training, and proper display of licenses is essential to avoid penalties.
  
  

Despite these challenges, many businesses successfully obtain permits each year with the right preparation—and this guide is here to help.

The alcohol industry in North Carolina is evolving rapidly, influenced by shifts in consumer behavior, policy changes, and technological advancement. Here are some emerging trends to be aware of:

• Growth of Craft Breweries and Distilleries – North Carolina ranks among the top U.S. states for breweries per capita, especially in cities like Asheville and Raleigh.
  
  
• Mobile Bars and Beverage Trucks – Pop-up alcohol service is on the rise, creating new permit categories and regulatory attention.
  
  
• Special Event Permits – From fundraisers to food truck festivals, the demand for limited one-time permits is growing.
  
  
• Digital Permit Applications – The NC ABC Commission continues improving its online permit portal to streamline the process.
  
  
• Stronger Focus on Alcohol Training – Employers and insurers increasingly favor businesses with certified alcohol service staff to reduce liability.

The NC ABC Commission offers a range of permit types, broadly categorized as on-premises, off-premises, mixed beverage, and special permits. Below are some of the most common.

• On-Premises Malt Beverage Permit – Beer only (0.5–15% ABV)
  
  
• On-Premises Unfortified Wine Permit – Wine ≤16% ABV
  
  
• On-Premises Fortified Wine Permit – Fortified wine (16–24% ABV)
  
  
• Mixed Beverages Permit – Liquor/cocktails for bars, restaurants, and clubs

• Off-Premises Malt Beverage Permit – Beer in sealed containers (grocery, convenience stores)
  
  
• Off-Premises Unfortified Wine Permit – Standard wine
  
  
• Off-Premises Fortified Wine Permit – Fortified wines (ports, sherries)

• Special Occasion Permit – For non-profits, ticketed events, or fundraisers
  
  
• Limited Special Occasion Permit – For private functions (e.g., weddings)
  
  
• Catering Permit – For businesses serving alcohol at off-site events
  
  
• Temporary Permit – For short-term events and business launches

• Brewery Permit
  
  
• Distillery Permit
  
  
• Winery Permit
  
  
• Wholesaler or Importer Permit

Permits often need to be stacked. A restaurant may hold three or more simultaneously to legally serve all drink types.

Permit fees in North Carolina vary depending on the type of permit and the nature of the business. For example, if you're seeking an On-Premises Malt Beverage Permit—which allows you to serve beer for consumption on-site—you can expect to pay around $400 annually. This same fee typically applies to On-Premises Unfortified Wine Permits and Fortified Wine Permits, both of which also allow limited off-premises sales.

For businesses planning to serve mixed beverages (i.e., cocktails and spirits), the Mixed Beverages Permit costs approximately $1,000 annually. Meanwhile, if you're hosting a non-profit fundraiser or a ticketed special event, a Special Occasion Permit will run you about $400.

For off-site alcohol sales, such as those done by grocery or convenience stores, an Off-Premises Malt Beverage Permit typically costs around $400, while permits for breweries, distilleries, and wineries vary based on production volume and distribution scope.

Additional expenses may include background check fees (approximately $38 per person), local privilege license fees imposed by municipalities, and any legal or consulting fees incurred during the application process.

• Visit the ABC Permit Type Directory
  
  
• Evaluate your business model: What do you sell? Where do people consume it?

All applicants must provide proof of completing responsible alcohol service training. This applies to:

• Business owners and managers
  
  
• Bartenders and servers
  
  
• Store clerks handling alcohol
  
  

We recommend North Carolina Alcohol Awareness Training, a course trusted by professionals across the state.

• Gather documents: lease/deed, floor plan, business registration, training certificate
  
  
• Complete the appropriate application forms
  
  
• Submit fingerprints and background checks
  
  

Apply online or through mail via the NC ABC Commission portal.

• Local authorities may inspect your site
  
  
• Permit review can take several weeks (generally 4–8 weeks)

• Frame and post all permits where alcohol is sold or served
  
  
• Renew annually and track your expiration dates

Unlike some states where alcohol training is optional, North Carolina makes it a requirement for licensees and applicants.

• Checking IDs and verifying age
  
  
• Identifying signs of intoxication
  
  
• Preventing over-service
  
  
• Legal liabilities (Dram Shop laws)
  
  
• Refusal tactics and conflict resolution

• For all ABC permit applicants
  
  
• For managers and staff who serve or sell alcohol

Courses like North Carolina Alcohol Awareness Training are ideal, especially because they’re:

• State-compliant
  
  
• Online and accessible
  
  
• Valid for several years (typically 2–3 years)

Here are actionable tips for first-time applicants or businesses renewing a permit:

• Start early: Give yourself at least 90 days before launch
  
  
• Get training early: Don’t delay on required seller/server training
  
  
• Stay organized: Track documents, renewal dates, and staff training status
  
  
• Ask for help: Consultants or attorneys can be valuable for complex permits
  
  
• Check local ordinances: Cities and counties may impose additional rules

Navigating the North Carolina liquor license (ABC permit) system may seem complicated, but with the right approach—and the right training—you’ll be raising a glass in no time.

From choosing the correct permit to submitting complete documentation and completing your mandatory alcohol awareness training, this guide is your roadmap to success.

And remember, while permits allow the sale of alcohol, training ensures you serve it responsibly. North Carolina Alcohol Awareness Training is the perfect starting point for staff and owners alike.

Here’s to legal, compliant, and successful alcohol service in the Tar Heel State!