How to Get an Alaska Liquor License?

Opening a bar or restaurant in Alaska? Planning to sell or serve alcohol? Then you’ll need to navigate Alaska’s liquor licensing process—a task that can seem overwhelming without the right guidance. Alaska’s Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board, managed by the Alcohol & Marijuana Control Office (AMCO), oversees all licensing, regulations, and compliance.
Mar 27
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While obtaining a liquor license is essential, so is ensuring that every bartender, server, and alcohol-handling staff member is trained and certified. That’s where our Alaska Alcohol Awareness Training comes in—a state-approved course designed to help your team stay compliant and responsible when serving alcohol.

This guide is here to break everything down for you—from license types and costs to legal requirements and common pitfalls—so you can get up and running with confidence.

What is a Liquor License in Alaska?

A liquor license in Alaska is a permit issued by the state allowing a business to legally sell or serve alcoholic beverages. The AMCO processes applications and enforces the rules through the ABC Board.

Key Points:

  • A license is mandatory for any business that sells or serves alcohol.
  • Licenses vary by business type (restaurant, bar, store, etc.).
  • You must meet zoning, operational, and public notification requirements.

Alaska Liquor License vs. Alcohol Certification

Let’s clear up a common misconception: a liquor license and alcohol certification are not the same.
Feature Liquor License
Alcohol Certification
Purpose Grants legal authority to sell/serve alcohol
Trains staff to comply with alcohol laws
Issued By AMCO/ABC Board
State-approved training providers
Required For Businesses Staff, managers, licensees
Legal Requirement Yes Yes
Validity Renewable (yearly, fees vary) 3–5 years

Important: All employees handling alcohol must complete training like the Alaska Alcohol Awareness Training within 30 days of hire.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Alaska

Understanding the different license types is crucial when applying.

1. Beverage Dispensary License

  • For bars and taverns
  • Allows on-site consumption
  • Most expensive (up to $2,500)

2. Restaurant/Eating Place License

  • For food establishments
  • Alcohol must be secondary to food sales

3. Package Store License

  • For liquor stores
  • Alcohol sold for off-site consumption

4. Club License

  • For private clubs or organizations

5. Special Event License

  • Temporary license for events
  • Usually lower cost, limited duration


Pro Tip: Check Alaska’s official Liquor License Database to research existing licenses by location or type.

How to Apply for a Liquor License in Alaska

The application process involves multiple steps and requires attention to detail:

1. Determine License Type

  • Match your business plan with the correct license type.

2. Complete the Application (Form AB-00)

  • Available on the AMCO website
  • Includes ownership info, floor plans, and operational details

3. Submit Background Checks

  • Required for owners and key personnel

4. Public Notice & Hearings

  • You must notify the public (posting notices) and possibly attend hearings.

5. Pay Fees

  • Range from $300 (renewals) to $2,500 (new Beverage Dispensary License)

6. Await Approval from the ABC Board

  • Processing can take weeks or months—plan accordingly

Cost of a Liquor License in Alaska

License fees vary based on type and locality. Here’s a general breakdown:

License Type Application Fee Renewal Fee
Beverage Dispensary $2,500 $300
Restaurant/Eating Place $1,200–$1,500 $300
Package Store $1,500–$2,000 $300
Special Event $50–$100/event N/A


Note: These are general estimates. Check the AMCO site or local ordinances for precise costs.

Challenges Business Owners Face

1. Complex Licensing Process

  • Navigating forms, fees, zoning, and hearings is time-consuming and confusing.

2. Changing Regulations

  • Senate Bill 9 in 2022 introduced several changes, including DTC shipping and license adjustments.

3. Staff Non-Compliance

  • Employees serving alcohol without certification put your business at risk.

4. Proximity Restrictions

  • Alcohol-selling locations must not be near schools, churches, or protected zones.

5. Lengthy Approval Times

  • From application to final approval, the wait can be months. Many business launches get delayed.

Trends & Innovations in Alaska Liquor Licensing

1. Digital Application Systems

  • AMCO is modernizing application processing for faster reviews.

2. Senate Bill 9 (2022)

  • Introduced DTC shipping and updated license categories.

3. Training Enforcement

  • More strict oversight ensuring all staff complete alcohol training.

4. Interactive License Database

AMCO’s updated system allows better public access to license info.

5. Alcohol Delivery Expansion

  • Businesses exploring alcohol-to-go services post-pandemic.

Tips for a Successful Liquor License Application

  • Start Early: The process takes time—don’t wait until just before your launch.

  • Consult Local Zoning Rules: Avoid wasting time on properties that won’t be approved.

  • Train Your Team Early: Ensure all staff complete their alcohol certification quickly.

  • Use AMCO Resources: Their site provides detailed checklists and FAQs.

  • Hire a Consultant: Especially useful if you're dealing with complex ownership structures.

Practical Advice for Owners & Managers

If you’re managing or owning a bar, restaurant, or retail store, getting your liquor license is only half the job. Ensuring compliance means training your team to understand and follow Alaska’s alcohol laws. Every employee who touches alcohol—bartenders, cashiers, servers, even managers—must complete state-approved alcohol certification.

Courses like Alaska Alcohol Awareness Training cover the essentials: spotting fake IDs, refusing service legally, understanding local laws, and more. It’s not just about avoiding fines—it’s about building a safe, legally sound business.

Have a checklist for your new hires, including certification within 30 days. Keep records of employee permits and renewals. These steps not only protect your business but show you’re serious about responsible service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take to get a liquor license in Alaska?
A: The process can take several weeks to months depending on the license type and local review requirements.

Q: Do I need a license to serve alcohol at a private event?

A: Yes, a Special Event License may be required depending on the circumstances.

Q: What happens if my staff doesn’t have certification?
A: Your business could face fines or license suspension.

Q: Where do I apply?
A: All applications go through Alaska’s AMCO via their official website.

Get Your License and Get Certified

Getting a liquor license in Alaska is a multi-step process that requires attention to detail, careful planning, and compliance with state regulations. From choosing the correct license type to navigating background checks and public hearings, it’s a path every alcohol-selling business must follow.

But don’t forget—the license is just part of the equation. Alaska law requires that everyone involved in the sale or service of alcohol completes a state-approved training course. That’s why business owners and managers should take advantage of resources like our Alaska Alcohol Awareness Training to ensure your team is ready, compliant, and confident.

By staying informed and proactive, you’ll not only meet legal requirements but also set your business up for long-term success. Cheers to that!