While we don’t issue liquor licenses, we can guide you through the process and ensure that your staff is properly certified to serve alcohol. The
South Dakota Alcohol Awareness Courses by the Certification Experts is essential for bartenders, servers, and business owners to maintain compliance and uphold responsible alcohol service.
Any business that plans to manufacture, distribute, sell, or serve alcohol in South Dakota must obtain a liquor license. This applies to:
- Bars and restaurants
- Liquor stores
- Breweries and distilleries
- Grocery stores selling alcohol
- Event venues serving alcohol
Since liquor licenses are issued at both the state and local levels, business owners must navigate multiple regulations before obtaining approval.
South Dakota offers several types of liquor licenses, depending on the nature of the business:
- On-Sale Liquor License – For establishments like bars and restaurants that serve alcohol for consumption on the premises.
- Off-Sale Liquor License – Required for businesses selling alcohol for consumption off-premises, such as liquor stores and grocery stores.
- Retail Wine License – For businesses that only sell wine by the glass or bottle.
- Temporary Liquor License – Needed for special events that involve alcohol sales.
- Brewer or Distiller License – Necessary for breweries and distilleries producing alcoholic beverages.
Each license type comes with its own set of rules, application requirements, and costs.
Liquor licensing in South Dakota is managed at both state and municipal levels. This means your first step is to check with your city or county government to understand local regulations, application fees, and availability of licenses. Some cities have quotas limiting the number of licenses they issue.
Applicants must fill out the Uniform Alcoholic Beverages License Application and submit it to their local governing body for approval. The form requires detailed business information, including:
- Business structure (LLC, partnership, sole proprietorship, etc.)
- Business address
- Type of liquor license being applied for
- Proof of local zoning compliance
Liquor license fees in South Dakota vary by type and location. Here are estimated costs:
- On-Sale Liquor License: $1,500 - $200,000 (depends on location and availability)
- Off-Sale Liquor License: $500 - $5,000
- Temporary License: $25 - $100 per event
Since some cities auction licenses due to high demand, the costs can be significantly higher in certain areas.
Applicants must undergo background checks, and their business premises must pass inspections to ensure compliance with health, safety, and zoning regulations.
Once the local government approves the application, it is forwarded to the South Dakota Department of Revenue for state-level approval. Processing times can take several weeks, so it’s crucial to plan ahead.
Many people confuse a liquor license with alcohol training certification, but they serve different purposes:
- Liquor License: A legal permit issued by the state and local government that allows businesses to sell or serve alcoholic beverages. It is required for establishments like bars, restaurants, and liquor stores to operate legally.
- Alcohol Training Certification: A training program that educates bartenders, servers, sellers, and managers on responsible alcohol service. This certification ensures compliance with alcohol laws, reduces liability risks, and promotes safe alcohol consumption.
While a liquor license grants permission to sell alcohol, alcohol training certification ensures that employees handle alcohol service responsibly and legally. Business owners should ensure that all staff members complete
South Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training to comply with state regulations and protect their business.
Some South Dakota municipalities have quotas on the number of liquor licenses they issue, making it difficult to obtain one in high-demand areas.
Certain licenses, especially on-sale licenses in competitive cities, can be costly due to bidding wars and limited availability.
Between local and state reviews, it can take several months to get approval, delaying business openings.
Business owners must navigate zoning laws, health inspections, and alcohol service laws to remain compliant.
All alcohol servers, bartenders, and managers must complete South Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training to legally serve alcohol. This certification ensures that staff members understand responsible alcohol service and legal requirements.
- Digital Applications – Many states, including South Dakota, are streamlining licensing processes with online applications and renewals.
- Increased Alcohol Delivery Services – Regulations are evolving to accommodate alcohol delivery and curbside pickup options.
- Stricter Compliance and Training Requirements – Many states are reinforcing alcohol awareness training mandates to prevent over-serving and underage drinking.
- Start Early – Since the process can take months, begin your application as soon as possible.
- Consult Local Officials – Understanding municipal regulations ahead of time can prevent unnecessary delays.
- Prepare Financially – Ensure you have enough funds to cover licensing fees, which can be substantial in some areas.
- Get Your Staff Certified – Completing South Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training early ensures your team is ready to serve alcohol legally.
- Keep Up with Renewals – Most licenses must be renewed annually, so mark deadlines on your calendar to avoid penalties.
Obtaining a liquor license in South Dakota requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and patience. While the state and local governments oversee licensing, business owners must also ensure that their staff is properly trained. Enrolling in
South Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training is a critical step to ensure compliance, protect your business, and maintain responsible alcohol service. If you’re preparing to apply for a liquor license, start early, stay informed, and make sure your team is fully certified. Ready to train your staff?
Get certified today! 