How to Get a Liquor License in Virginia: 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.

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.

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.

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.

Get Licensed, Get Trained, 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 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.