The Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) oversees the licensing of establishments that sell, serve, or distribute alcohol in the state. Whether you're applying for a new license or need to understand MA alcohol regulations, this guide covers the essentials.
- All-Alcohol License — allows service of beer, wine, and spirits; requires local licensing board approval
- Wine and Malt Beverage License — beer and wine only; lower cost than all-alcohol
- Package Store License — off-premise retail sales (liquor stores)
- Farmer's Winery License — for Massachusetts wineries producing local wines
- Club License — for private clubs serving members only
While the Massachusetts ABCC sets statewide regulations, most alcohol licenses are issued by local licensing boards (city or town). You must apply to both your local board and file with the ABCC.
Massachusetts does not mandate a statewide alcohol server training requirement, but many local licenses require servers to hold an alcohol awareness certificate. The Certification Experts online course satisfies these employer and local requirements.
The ABCC (Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission) is the state agency that regulates alcohol licensing, sales, and service across Massachusetts. It sets the rules that all licensed establishments must follow.
Apply through your city or town's local licensing board. The ABCC provides oversight but most approvals come from the local level. Visit the Massachusetts ABCC website for current forms and fee schedules.
The ABCC does not issue individual server certifications, but many MA employers require alcohol server training. The Certification Experts online course ($30) meets this requirement.
Get MA Alcohol Server Certified — $30
