But just like your business itself, your license needs regular maintenance. Failing to renew it on time can result in fines, license suspension, or even business closure. This guide explains
how to renew your Virginia ABC license online, who needs to renew, deadlines to watch for, and how alcohol training certification supports compliance.
Before you renew, make sure your team’s training is current. Completing the
Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training —a
state-approved program for bartenders, servers, and managers—ensures you meet ABC expectations for responsible service.
Any business or individual that sells, serves, or distributes alcohol in Virginia must maintain an active license through the ABC Authority. Licenses are typically valid for one year and must be renewed before expiration to avoid penalties.
- Retail Licenses: Restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels, convenience stores, and grocery stores that sell alcohol on or off premises.
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Banquet Licenses: One-time or recurring event permits that authorize alcohol service during specific occasions.
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Manufacturing and Wholesale Licenses: Breweries, wineries, distilleries, and distributors.
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Mixed Beverage Licenses: For establishments serving cocktails, spirits, and other mixed drinks.
The ABC Authority does not automatically renew your license. Missing the renewal date can result in temporary suspension, loss of selling privileges, or the need to reapply entirely—a process that’s often longer and more expensive than renewing on time.
The renewal process is simple but must be started well in advance—typically 60 days before your license expiration date.
- Look up your license expiration date on your most recent ABC license or through the Virginia ABC License Lookup tool.
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Prepare your business and contact information to ensure all records are accurate.
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Gather any necessary documents (explained later in this guide).
The easiest and fastest way to renew is through the Virginia ABC Licensing Portal, where you can manage your license, update business details, and pay renewal fees online.
In some limited cases, you may also renew by mail or in person at your regional ABC office, but online renewal is recommended for efficiency and tracking.
The online renewal process is designed to make compliance straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Once logged in, find your existing license(s) under “My Licenses.” Select the one you wish to renew and click “Renew.”
Ensure all ownership, address, and contact details are correct. If you’ve changed locations, ownership, or trade names, update these before renewal.
Documents may include:
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Your business license or permit
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Valid photo ID
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Proof of insurance (if required for your license type)
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Alcohol training certification (if applicable)
The portal accepts major credit/debit cards and e-checks. Keep your confirmation receipt for your records.
After submission, you’ll receive an email confirmation. The renewed license will either be emailed or mailed to your business address, depending on your preference.
Renewing online is not only more efficient but also allows you to track your renewal status in real time.
The ABC Authority recommends submitting your renewal at least 30–60 days before expiration. This ensures time for review and prevents any lapse in selling privileges.
If you miss the renewal window, you may still renew within a short grace period, but additional late fees may apply. Beyond that, your license becomes inactive, and you’ll need to reapply.
Renewal fees vary based on the license type. For example:
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Beer and wine on-premise renewal fees usually range around $120-$150 per year, which aligns with smaller retail or limited licenses.
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Mixed beverage restaurant licenses typically have higher renewal fees; estimates closer to $1,000-$1,200 per year are reasonable for standard restaurant licenses in Virginia.
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Retail off-premise license renewal fees can be around $120-$200 per year, though some retail liquor licenses in Virginia can have a broader fee range, sometimes higher based on local factors.
(Check the Virginia ABC fee schedule for exact amounts.)
- Online via the licensing portal (credit/debit or e-check)
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Mail-in check or money order to Virginia ABC headquarters
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In-person payment at a regional office
Renewing your license is also an opportunity to confirm that your business remains compliant with all Virginia ABC regulations.
- Business ownership updates: If you’ve added or removed partners or shareholders.
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Location changes: Moving or expanding your business requires an address update.
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Tax compliance: Ensure your business is current with local and state taxes.
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Insurance verification: Maintain liability coverage as required for certain license types.
The ABC Authority may conduct reviews to verify your business is operating responsibly and lawfully. Keeping accurate records and up-to-date training certifications helps ensure these reviews go smoothly.
Virginia encourages all alcohol sellers, servers, and managers to complete a state-approved alcohol training course. While not every license type mandates it, many employers and local jurisdictions require proof of training to ensure responsible service.
- Reduces the risk of alcohol-related violations.
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Helps prevent underage or intoxicated sales.
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Demonstrates due diligence during compliance inspections.
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Supports safer and more responsible business operations.
The
Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training offered by Certification Experts is a
state-approved course that teaches responsible serving and selling practices for bartenders, servers, and managers.
Completing this course helps ensure your establishment remains compliant and demonstrates your commitment to safe alcohol service before renewing your ABC license.
Missing your renewal deadline can have serious consequences.
- Late fees or administrative penalties.
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Temporary suspension of your selling privileges.
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Full license expiration, requiring a complete reapplication.
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Possible fines or legal action if alcohol is sold without a valid license.
If your license has already expired, contact your
regional ABC licensing office immediately. They can provide instructions for reinstatement or guide you through reapplying.
Pro tip: Set multiple reminders—such as 60 days, 30 days, and one week before expiration—to ensure you never miss a renewal window again.
Keeping your Virginia ABC license active doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few proactive steps, you can maintain compliance year-round.
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Regular self-audits
Review your compliance documents, staff certifications, and business licenses quarterly.
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Keep training current
Encourage your employees to renew their alcohol training certifications annually or before expiration. This reduces legal risk and enhances professionalism.
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Stay informed
Subscribe to updates from the Virginia ABC Authority for news about regulation changes or fee adjustments.
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Use reminders
Set digital calendar alerts for renewal deadlines, training expiration dates, and compliance check-ins.
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Maintain accurate records
Store all licensing and training documents digitally so they’re easily accessible during audits or inspections.
To confirm your license’s current status or renewal progress, use the
Virginia ABC License Lookup Tool. Simply enter your business name or license number to verify active status, expiration date, or renewal confirmation.
This lookup feature helps business owners stay proactive—ensuring you’re never caught off guard by an unexpected expiration.
Renewing your Virginia ABC license on time isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s an essential part of maintaining your business reputation and compliance. Starting early, following the online renewal process carefully, and keeping all documentation organized ensures a seamless renewal experience.
Before you finalize your renewal, make sure your team’s alcohol service credentials are up to date. Completing the
Virginia Alcohol Awareness Training from Certification Experts guarantees that your staff meets Virginia’s standards for responsible alcohol service—helping your business stay compliant, safe, and successful.
Renew today, stay informed, and serve responsibly in 2025 and beyond.
