How to Get a Liquor License in Virginia: Updated Guide for Business Owners, Managers & Staff

Opening a bar, managing a restaurant, or serving drinks at a public event in Virginia? You’re going to need a liquor license—and a team trained to handle alcohol legally and responsibly.
Mar 24
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In Virginia, the liquor licensing process is regulated by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC). It’s a legal requirement for any business or individual planning to sell or serve alcohol—whether you're opening a trendy cocktail bar, managing a hotel lounge, or running a wedding venue.

But licensing isn’t the only requirement. To stay compliant and reduce liability, business owners should also ensure their team holds alcohol awareness training certification, like the Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training offered by Certification Experts. It’s optional for most roles but highly recommended.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know:

  • The types of liquor licenses available in Virginia
  • The exact steps to apply
  • Legal requirements and cost breakdown
  • Common challenges businesses face
  • Pro tips for staying compliant
  • How to keep your team trained and your operations safe

Let’s get into it.

What Is a Virginia Liquor License?

A liquor license is a legal document issued by the Virginia ABC that authorizes a business to sell or serve alcohol. Depending on your operation, you’ll need one of several license types. These include:

  • Retail Licenses – For bars, restaurants, hotels, and grocery stores
  • Industry Licenses – For manufacturers, importers, and wholesalers
  • Banquet Licenses – For special events (weddings, festivals, fundraisers)
  • Mixed Beverage Licenses – If you serve spirits/cocktails in addition to beer and wine


Important: A liquor license is required before selling or serving alcohol. Operating without one can lead to fines, shutdowns, or worse—loss of your business license.

Special Event & Temporary Liquor Permits in Virginia (Banquet Licenses)

Not every alcohol-serving situation requires a full retail license. If you’re hosting a wedding, festival, corporate gala, fundraiser, tasting, or private celebration, Virginia offers a streamlined option: the Banquet License, also known as the special event or temporary liquor permit.

A Banquet License allows you to legally serve or sell alcohol for a specific date, time, and location. It’s ideal for individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and event organizers who need alcohol service authority for a single event or short-term period—without undergoing the full retail review process.

When You Need a Banquet License

You must apply for a Banquet License if your event includes:

  • Alcohol sales or service to guests
  • A cash bar or drink tickets
  • Sponsorships involving alcohol brands
  • Public events where alcohol is available
  • Private events where alcohol is provided to guests (even if free)

Who Can Apply

Banquet Licenses can be issued to:

  • Individuals hosting private events
  • Nonprofit organizations (fundraisers, galas, community events)
  • Businesses or event venues
  • Festivals and large-scale public gatherings

What a Banquet License Allows

With an approved Banquet License, you may:

  • Serve beer, wine, or mixed beverages (depending on the permit type)
  • Hold alcohol tastings
  • Sell alcohol at public events
  • Allow guests to bring alcohol (for certain permit categories)

Application Timeline & Cost

  • Processing Time: Usually 7–10 days
  • Cost: Typically $85–$195, depending on event type and alcohol offerings

Applications are submitted through the VAL (Virginia ABC Licensing) system, just like standard retail applications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying too close to the event date
  • Incorrect venue address or event hours
  • Failing to meet safety or crowd-control expectations
  • Misunderstanding nonprofit vs. commercial requirements

If you plan events regularly—weddings, pop-ups, tastings—this is the easiest and fastest way to stay compliant.

Virginia Liquor License Requirements (2025 Update)

Requirement  Details
Legal Business Entity Must be a registered LLC, Corp, or sole proprietorship
Age Requirement Applicants must be 21+ years old and a U.S. citizen
Documentation Business registration, government ID, premises lease or ownership docs
Zoning & Permits Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) from your locality, if required
Public Notification You must post a public notice about your license application
Residency No longer required as of 2020
Processing Time:

  • Banquet Licenses: ~7–10 days
  • Retail/Industry Licenses: ~60 days


Liquor License Cost in Virginia (2025):
Fees range from $300 to $1,000+ depending on the type of license and the business's alcohol offerings. For example:

  • Beer only: ~$300
  • Wine and beer: ~$500
  • Mixed beverages (spirits): $1,000+


More details can be found on the Virginia ABC licensing portal.

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Liquor License in Virginia

1. Determine Your License Type

Figure out which license suits your business model:

  • Restaurant? Go for a Retail Mixed Beverage License
  • Event host? You’ll need a Banquet License
  • Brewery? An Industry Manufacturing License is your go-to

2. Register Your Business

You must register your entity with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Your liquor license will be issued to the business, not an individual (unless you’re a sole proprietor).

3. Use the VAL System to Apply Online

Applications are handled through the Virginia ABC Licensing (VAL) portal. You’ll need:

  • Business tax ID
  • Lease or property documents
  • Conditional use permit (if applicable)
  • Personal background info of owners/managers

4. Complete Public Notification

Applicants must:

  • Post a sign at the business location for 10 days
  • OR publish a legal ad in a local newspaper


This allows the community to raise concerns before your license is approved.

5. Await Inspection & Approval

An ABC officer may inspect your location. Once everything checks out, they’ll issue your license.

Virginia ABC Regulations & Compliance Requirements

Getting your license approved is only the beginning. Once you’re operating, Virginia ABC enforces detailed regulations that every bar, restaurant, retailer, manufacturer, and event organizer must follow to stay compliant.

These rules help ensure alcohol is sold and served safely—and failing to follow them can result in fines, suspensions, or license revocation.

Operational Rules Every License Holder Must Follow

  • Age Verification: You must verify the age of every customer purchasing or consuming alcohol.
  • Intoxicated Patrons: It’s illegal to serve someone who is visibly intoxicated.
  • Hours of Sale: Alcohol service hours vary by locality—always confirm your city or county’s specific limits.
  • On-Premise Consumption Rules: Only licensed beverages may be consumed on-site unless explicitly allowed (e.g., winery tastings).
  • Food Requirements: Restaurants holding mixed beverage licenses must maintain required food-to-beverage sales ratios.

Recordkeeping & Reporting

License holders must maintain:

  • Alcohol purchase invoices
  • Inventory records
  • Sales and financial documentation
  • Copies of licenses and mandatory postings

These records must be available for inspection at any time.

Restrictions on Promotions & Discounts

Virginia ABC has strict guidelines for alcohol promotions, including:

  • No advertising “free drinks”
  • No unlimited drink specials
  • Happy hour ads may not reference specific drink prices
  • Alcohol cannot be given as a prize or incentive (except for special regulated events)

Delivery & Transportation Rules

If your business delivers alcohol:

  • All delivery personnel must meet age requirements
  • Deliveries must occur only during legal sale hours
  • Deliveries require mandatory training under VA ABC regulations

ABC Enforcement & Inspections

ABC agents can conduct:

  • Spot checks
  • Compliance inspections
  • License audits
  • Underage compliance stings

Proper training—like the Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training course—helps minimize risk and avoid costly violations.

Common Challenges When Applying for a Liquor License

  1. Navigating the Application Paperwork
    It can be overwhelming—business owners must juggle state regulations, local zoning rules, and compliance documentation.

  2. Processing Delays
    Even if you submit everything correctly, delays of 60+ days are common, especially for mixed-beverage or industry licenses.

  3. Failing to Notify the Public Properly
    Forget to post a notice? Expect rejection.

  4. Compliance with Local Zoning Laws
    Not every location is zoned for alcohol service. You’ll need approval from your local planning department.

  5. Staff Not Properly Trained
    While not mandatory, lack of alcohol training certification can lead to legal trouble if a server overserves or sells to a minor. That’s why many owners choose to certify staff with programs like Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training.

Pro Tips to Stay Compliant & Avoid Fines

✅ Train Your Staff
Make sure bartenders, servers, and even your event staff understand how to check IDs, refuse service, and spot signs of intoxication.

✅ Keep Records Handy
Retain copies of your license, permits, and staff certifications. Keep them accessible on-site.

✅ Renew On Time
Most licenses must be renewed annually. You’ll receive notices, but mark your calendar just in case.

✅ Apply Early for Events
Planning a wedding, fundraiser, or tasting? Apply for your banquet license at least 2 weeks in advance.

✅ Watch for Local Rules
Some counties/cities have extra restrictions. Always double-check with your local government before serving alcohol.

License Renewal, Modification & Ownership Changes

Virginia liquor licenses aren’t “set it and forget it.” Whether you're adjusting your business model, adding a bar area, changing owners, or simply continuing operations into the next year, you’ll need to follow Virginia’s renewal and modification requirements.

Annual Renewal (Don’t Miss the Deadline)

Most Virginia ABC licenses must be renewed every 12 months. You’ll typically receive a reminder from the ABC, but it’s best to:

  • Mark your renewal date in your calendar
  • Keep your payment method or business account updated
  • Review any changes in your operations before submitting the renewal

Failing to renew on time can result in penalties or service interruptions.

When You Need to Modify Your License

You must file a modification request if your business undergoes changes such as:

  • A new floor plan or bar area
  • Adding or removing seating
  • Expanding or shrinking your licensed premises
  • Changing your alcohol offerings
  • Switching from beer/wine only to mixed beverages
  • Altering your business name

Licenses are tied to the specific structure and operations of your business, so any change that affects alcohol service may require modification.

Ownership Changes & Transfers

In Virginia:

  • Licenses are not automatically transferable to new owners.
  • If ownership changes (sale, merger, partnership changes), you must notify the ABC.
  • A new license application may be required depending on the extent of the ownership transition.

To avoid operating illegally during a sale or transfer, always consult the ABC or a licensing professional in advance.

Industry Trends: What’s Changing in 2025?

  1. Online Licensing Through the VAL System
    The move to digital licensing has streamlined applications—but requires attention to detail to avoid rejections.

  2. No More Residency Requirement
    As of 2020, you don’t need to be a Virginia resident to apply. This is great for out-of-state investors or hospitality groups.

  3. Spike in Pop-Up Bars and Event Venues
    Short-term licenses (like banquet permits) are in high demand for pop-ups, festivals, and seasonal venues.

  4. Higher Scrutiny on Alcohol Delivery
    If your business delivers alcohol, mandatory training applies to all delivery drivers per ABC law.

  5. More Businesses Seeking Staff Certification
    Why? It reduces legal risk and lowers liability insurance costs. That’s why many are enrolling in programs like the Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training.

Actionable Tips for Business Owners & Managers

  • Start Early – Don’t wait until the last minute. Delays can stall your grand opening or event.
  • Certify Your Team – It’s the smart move, even if not required by law. Certification builds trust and reduces risk.
  • Designate a Compliance Officer – Choose someone on your team to manage renewals, staff training, and ABC updates.
  • Review Local Rules Regularly – Your county or city may add restrictions beyond ABC rules.
  • Use Checklists – Build your own licensing and compliance checklist to stay organized.

Helpful Resources & Support for Virginia ABC Applicants

The Virginia ABC licensing process can feel complex, but plenty of tools, resources, and support systems are available to help you get through the process confidently.

Here are the best places to start:

Virginia ABC Licensing Portal (VAL)

Your central hub for:

  • Applications
  • Renewals
  • Modifications
  • Fee payments
  • License lookups

ABC Regional Offices

Local field offices can assist with:

  • Questions about your application
  • Compliance expectations
  • Event permit guidance
  • In-person support

Zoning & Local Government Resources

Each county or city may have additional rules on alcohol service. Check your locality for:

  • Conditional Use Permits (CUPs)
  • Local zoning requirements
  • Local noise, parking, or land-use restrictions
  • Health department approvals for restaurants

Business Formation Help

Before you apply, you must have a legal entity. Helpful resources include:

  • Virginia State Corporation Commission
  • Local business licensing offices
  • Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)

Certification and Compliance Education

While training isn’t always mandatory, many businesses certify their staff through programs like the Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training to reduce liability, cut insurance costs, and improve safety.

These resources ensure you’re not navigating ABC regulations alone—and help keep your business compliant long after you’re approved.

Get Licensed, Get Certified, Stay Compliant

Getting a liquor license in Virginia isn’t impossible—but it’s not something you want to wing. Whether you’re running a new bar in Richmond, managing a restaurant in Virginia Beach, or planning a big event in Arlington, the rules apply to everyone serving alcohol.

Make sure your business is:

  • Legally licensed through the Virginia ABC
  • Staffed with trained, certified professionals who know how to serve responsibly
  • Fully informed on the latest laws, costs, and licensing changes


And don’t forget—while you can’t get your liquor license from us, you can make sure your team is professionally trained with the Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training course by the Certification Experts. It’s fast, affordable, and designed for anyone who serves, sells, or manages alcohol service in Virginia.

Ready to take the next step? Get trained. Stay legal. And serve smart.

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