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.
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.
The ABLE Commission offers several types of liquor licenses, depending on your business model:
For liquor stores that sell alcohol for off-premises consumption.
Required for bars, restaurants, and clubs serving mixed drinks or spirits for on-premises consumption.
For businesses that only serve beer and wine, but not liquor.
For distributors who sell alcohol to licensed retailers.
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.
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.
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)
You can apply online through the Oklahoma ABLE Commission’s website. Ensure you complete every section accurately to avoid processing delays.
💰 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
Applicants and business owners must undergo fingerprinting and a criminal background check before approval.
The ABLE Commission may conduct an on-site inspection to verify compliance before issuing your 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.
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
While the Oklahoma ABLE Commission handles liquor licensing, business owners and managers must also ensure that their employees are certified to serve alcohol responsibly.
✔ Bartenders
✔ Servers
✔ Managers
✔ Business owners
✔ 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.🚫 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.
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.
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. 