How To Get an Oklahoma ABLE Commission Liquor License?

Opening a bar, restaurant, or liquor store in Oklahoma is an exciting business venture, but before you can serve a single drink, you must obtain a liquor license from the Oklahoma ABLE Commission. This process involves applications, fees, background checks, and strict legal requirements.
Mar 17
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There’s one more critical requirement that business owners and managers must address: ensuring that all employees handling alcohol are properly trained and certified. While Certification Experts cannot issue liquor licenses (only the Oklahoma ABLE Commission can), we provide state-approved Oklahoma Alcohol Awareness Training to help businesses meet compliance requirements and operate legally.

In this guide, we’ll break down:
✅ The steps to get an Oklahoma ABLE Commission liquor license
✅ Costs, processing times, and common challenges
✅ Why alcohol training certification is essential for your team
✅ Compliance tips to keep your business running smoothly

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap to getting your Oklahoma liquor license and ensuring your staff is properly certified.

What is the Oklahoma ABLE Commission?

The Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) Commission is the state agency responsible for regulating alcohol sales, distribution, and service. Any business that wants to sell, serve, or distribute alcohol in Oklahoma must apply for a license through the ABLE Commission.

The Commission enforces state laws related to alcohol, including:
✔ Approving and issuing liquor licenses
✔ Regulating alcohol sales and distribution
✔ Conducting inspections and compliance checks
✔ Enforcing responsible service laws

If you plan to sell alcohol, you must go through the ABLE Commission—there’s no way around it.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Oklahoma

The ABLE Commission offers several types of liquor licenses, depending on your business model:

1. Retail Liquor License

For liquor stores that sell alcohol for off-premises consumption.

2. Mixed Beverage License

Required for bars, restaurants, and clubs serving mixed drinks or spirits for on-premises consumption.

3. Beer & Wine License

For businesses that only serve beer and wine, but not liquor.

4. Wholesaler License

For distributors who sell alcohol to licensed retailers.

5. Manufacturer License

For breweries, wineries, and distilleries that produce alcohol.

Note: Each license type has its own rules and costs, so it's essential to apply for the correct one based on your business.

How to Apply for an Oklahoma ABLE Commission Liquor License

Step 1: Determine the Right License

Identify the correct license based on your business model. Selling cocktails? You’ll need a Mixed Beverage License. Running a liquor store? Go for a Retail Liquor License.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following:

📌 Business registration (LLC, corporation, etc.)
📌 Sales tax permit from the Oklahoma Tax Commission
📌 Lease agreement or proof of property ownership
📌 Personal background checks for all owners/managers
📌 Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

You can apply online through the Oklahoma ABLE Commission’s website. Ensure you complete every section accurately to avoid processing delays.

Step 4: Pay the Licensing Fee

💰 Costs vary depending on your license type:
✔ Retail Liquor License: $1,005 per year
✔ Mixed Beverage License: $1,005 per year
✔ Beer & Wine License: $500 per year

Step 5: Complete a Background Check

Applicants and business owners must undergo fingerprinting and a criminal background check before approval.

Step 6: Pass an Inspection

The ABLE Commission may conduct an on-site inspection to verify compliance before issuing your license.

Step 7: Receive Your Liquor License

If all requirements are met, you’ll receive your Oklahoma ABLE Commission liquor license and can legally sell alcohol.

⏳ Processing Time: Licenses typically take 4-6 weeks, but delays can occur if paperwork is incomplete.

How Much Does an Oklahoma Liquor License Cost?

License fees depend on the type of business. As of writing, here are the license types and the corresponding annual fee.

Mixed Beverage License: $1,005
Retail Liquor License: For cities over 5,000 population, the fee is $905
Beer & Wine License: $500
Wholesaler License: $3,000
Manufacturer License (Distiller License): $3,125

Other costs include:
✔ Application fees
✔ Renewal fees (licenses must be renewed yearly)
✔ Employee training and certification

Why Alcohol Training Certification Matters for Business Owners and Employees

While the Oklahoma ABLE Commission handles liquor licensing, business owners and managers must also ensure that their employees are certified to serve alcohol responsibly.

Who Needs Alcohol Training?

 ✔ Bartenders
 ✔ Servers
✔ Managers
✔ Business owners

Why Is Certification Important?

✔ Prevents fines and legal penalties
✔ Reduces liability risks for your business
✔ Ensures compliance with Oklahoma laws
✔ Helps staff recognize intoxication and avoid overserving

💡 The Oklahoma Alcohol Awareness Training offered by Certification Experts is a state-approved course designed for bartenders, servers, and business owners. It’s online, quick, and essential for compliance.

Common Mistakes That Delay Liquor License Approval

🚫 Submitting Incomplete Applications – Missing documents cause delays.
🚫 Failing the Background Check – Any past violations may impact approval.🚫 Not Getting Employee Certification – Untrained staff can result in legal trouble.
🚫 Missing License Renewal Deadlines – Late renewals can lead to suspension of alcohol sales.

✅ Tip: Keep track of renewal dates and training deadlines to avoid disruptions to your business.

Maintaining Compliance After Getting Your License

After getting your Oklahoma ABLE Commission liquor license, you must:

✔ Renew Annually: Submit a renewal application before your license expires
.✔ Train New Employees: Ensure every alcohol server takes a state-approved course.
✔ Follow Responsible Serving Guidelines: Implement strict ID-check policies to avoid selling to minors.
✔ Stay Updated on State Laws: Oklahoma liquor laws may change—stay informed.

💡 Investing in regular employee training through Oklahoma Alcohol Awareness Training ensures your business stays compliant and protected.

Get Licensed and Stay Compliant

If you’re starting or managing a business that sells alcohol in Oklahoma, getting an Oklahoma ABLE Commission liquor license is mandatory—and the process requires careful planning.

Key Takeaways:

✔ The Oklahoma ABLE Commission issues liquor licenses—not private businesses.
✔ Business owners must apply, pay fees, pass background checks, and follow compliance rules.
✔ Employee certification is essential—bartenders, servers, and managers must complete state-approved alcohol training.
Oklahoma Alcohol Awareness Training is ABLE Commission-recognized and ensures your team meets state requirements.

By following this guide, you can obtain your liquor license smoothly and ensure your business operates legally.