California has some of the strictest regulations in the country when it comes to alcoholic beverage licensing. Our state offers no fewer than five types of licenses for retailers. The type of license you need depends on several factors.
If you wish to sell alcohol at your establishment, it is critical that you have an in-depth understanding of the type of license that you need. To assist you, we will expound on the five types of retail licenses available in California.
What are the 5 alcoholic beverage retail licenses offered?
When it comes to determining which type of license you should apply for, you have five options. These are the licenses that California offers for retailers of alcoholic drinks:
- On-sale general
An on-sale general license grants permission to sell all forms of alcoholic beverages for drinking on-site and for drinking off the premises.
- On-sale beer
If you wish to sell only malt beverages for consumption on or off the premises, you should seek an on-sale beer license.
- On-sale beer and wine
An on-sale beer and wine license is similar to an on-sale beer license but also permits the consumption of wine, both on- and off-site.
- Off-sale general
Off-sale general licenses allow the sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption only off the premises of the retail store.
- Off-sale beer and wine
Similarly, off-sale beer and wine licenses permit you to sell beer and wine for consumption off the premises of your retail location.
As you can see, you have a bevy of options for your alcoholic beverage license. It is wise to consult an attorney to discuss which choice is best for you and take precautions to avoid future licensing issues.
Licensed retailers still face many issues
After you carefully select the right license, your difficulties regarding licensing are not yet over. Many retailers face additional problems that require license defense. If this happens to you, it is critical that you know your legal options so that you can mount a strong defense of your alcoholic beverage retail license.
