How to Get a North Dakota Liquor License?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the licensing process, outline the types of licenses available, and share key compliance tips. We'll also highlight why completing North Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training is a smart move for business owners and staff alike, even though it isn't mandated statewide. Let's dive in!

Obtaining a liquor license in North Dakota is doable, but it comes with several hurdles. Here are the top pain points applicants often encounter:

• Dual Approval: Both the state and the local city/county must approve retail liquor licenses.
  
  
• Quota Systems: Some cities cap the number of available licenses, making them scarce and expensive.
  
  
• Strict Documentation: Applicants must submit thorough records, including personal background checks and detailed premises diagrams.
  
  
• Long Processing Times: Expect to wait anywhere from 30 to 90 days or longer for approval.
  
  
• Training Expectations: While not legally mandated, many employers and insurers now expect employees to have alcohol server training.
  
  

Planning ahead and being meticulous with your paperwork is key to overcoming these challenges.

The North Dakota alcohol landscape is evolving. Here are a few current trends:

• Craft Brewery and Distillery Growth: Local craft beverage producers are thriving, increasing demand for manufacturing and taproom licenses.
  
  
• Special Event Popularity: More festivals, concerts, and fundraisers are applying for short-term special event permits.
  
  
• Mobile Alcohol Services: Pop-up bars, mobile cocktail trucks, and event caterers are applying for niche licenses.
  
  
• Digitalization of Applications: The North Dakota Attorney General's Office is streamlining parts of the application process online.
  
  
• Training as a Best Practice: Although not required by law, more businesses encourage or mandate staff to complete responsible alcohol server training to minimize risks.

North Dakota offers a variety of liquor license options based on your business model:

• Beer and Wine License: Allows only the sale of beer and wine.
  
  
• Full Liquor License: Permits sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits.
  
  
• On-Sale License: For bars, restaurants, or venues where alcohol is consumed on-site.
  
  
• Off-Sale License: For retail stores selling alcohol for off-premises consumption.

• Special Event Permit: Temporary permit for festivals, fundraisers, or other events, valid up to 14 consecutive days.

• Brewery License: For beer production and on-site sales.
  
  
• Distillery License: For distilled spirits production.
  
  
• Winery License: For wine production and distribution.
  
  
• Wholesaler License: For alcohol distributors.
  
  

Tip: Some cities limit certain license types based on quotas, so always check with your local jurisdiction first.

Permit costs vary based on license type, local jurisdiction, and availability. Here's a general idea:

• Retail On-Sale Beer/Wine License: Around $500 to $1,000 annually
  
  
• Full Liquor Retail License: Can range from $1,000 to $5,000+ per year depending on location
  
  
• Special Event Permits: Approximately $25–$100 per event
  
  
• Brewery/Distillery/Winery Licenses: Fees vary widely based on production size and local regulations
  
  

Keep in mind that:

• Some local governments impose additional "local licensing fees."
  
  
• License costs can skyrocket in areas with a quota system where licenses must be purchased from existing holders.

Decide whether you need on-sale, off-sale, manufacturing, or special event permits.

Apply through your city or county governing body. Approval at the local level is usually required before the state license is issued.

Prepare:

• Completed application forms
  
  
• Background check consent forms
  
  
• Personal history affidavits
  
  
• Business registration documents
  
  
• Site floor plans and lease agreements
  
  
• Proof of training for owners and managers (if required by locality or employer)

Send your application and supporting documents to the North Dakota Attorney General's Office, Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Section.

Expect the review process to take 30 to 90 days or longer, depending on the complexity of your application.

Although North Dakota does not legally mandate alcohol training certification, many businesses choose to require it internally. Completing a program like North Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training can:

• Minimize legal risks and insurance costs
• Reduce the likelihood of serving minors or intoxicated patrons
• Protect your business from fines and penalties
• Improve customer service and professionalism

Important: Training certificates are typically valid for 3 years and some cities or counties may adopt local ordinances that make alcohol training mandatory for servers or managers.

Here are some actionable tips to boost your success when applying for a liquor license in North Dakota:

• Start early: Licensing can be a time-consuming process. Depending on the complexity of your business and the responsiveness of your local jurisdiction, the process can take several weeks or even months. Starting early gives you time to gather documents, respond to feedback, and prevent costly delays.
  
  
• Budget wisely: Costs can add up quickly. Beyond the license fee itself, you may need to pay local fees, legal fees, consultation services, or broker charges if you’re acquiring a license from a current holder. Build a contingency fund into your startup costs to handle these expenses.
  
  
• Document everything: Maintain a thorough file of all forms, supporting materials, communication with the state or city, and approvals. This can help you respond quickly to requests for clarification and is critical for audits or renewals.
• Train your team: Even if not required by law, ensure your team completes North Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training. Doing so demonstrates a commitment to compliance, improves professionalism, and may help reduce liability or insurance costs.
  
  
• Monitor renewal deadlines: Liquor licenses must be renewed annually. Mark renewal deadlines well in advance, and confirm whether any updated documentation or fees are required. Missing a renewal can interrupt your ability to legally serve alcohol—a major risk for any bar or restaurant.
  
  
• Stay updated with law changes: Alcohol laws can shift based on legislative changes or city-specific ordinances. Subscribe to updates from the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office or your local chamber of commerce to stay informed.
  
  
• Consult professionals when needed: If you're unsure about how to complete forms or whether a license transfer applies to your situation, consider consulting a lawyer or licensing expert. Their guidance can save you time and prevent costly errors.

Getting a North Dakota liquor license is a critical step toward launching or growing your alcohol-related business. By understanding the types of licenses, navigating local and state approval, and ensuring your staff is trained in responsible alcohol service, you position your establishment for long-term success.

While server training isn't mandated statewide, offering or requiring courses like North Dakota Alcohol Awareness Training can give you a serious advantage—protecting your license, reducing liability, and providing better service.

So whether you're opening a neighborhood pub in Fargo or hosting a downtown Bismarck food festival, now you have the roadmap to serve responsibly, compliantly, and successfully.
Cheers to your new venture!