How to Get a Liquor License: Step-by-Step Guide and Cost Breakdown

Thinking about opening a bar, restaurant, or liquor store in New York? Before you can pour a single drink, you need to know how to get a liquor license. It’s one of the most important (and sometimes confusing) parts of starting a business that sells alcohol.

This guide will walk you through the process step by step, from choosing the right license to understanding how much it costs to get a liquor license. We’ll also cover some common mistakes and how to avoid them. If you’re planning to serve alcohol in New York, understanding liquor law is crucial for your business success.

Why You Need a Liquor License

If you’re planning to sell alcohol in New York, whether by the glass at a restaurant or by the bottle at a liquor store, you’ll need a liquor license. It doesn’t matter if your business is big or small, or if you’re serving beer, wine, or hard liquor. In New York, the law requires you to get approval from the State Liquor Authority (SLA) before you can legally sell any kind of alcohol.

So, why is a liquor license so important?

Selling alcohol without a license isn’t just a small mistake; it’s a serious violation. If you try to open your doors without one, you could face fines, delays, or even get your business shut down before you make your first sale. That’s why knowing how to get a liquor license and doing it the right way matters so much.

What does a liquor license do?

A liquor license gives you legal permission to sell alcohol under specific rules. The SLA decides what type of license you need based on your business. For example, a restaurant that wants to serve wine with dinner will apply for a different license than a grocery store that sells beer to go. If you get the wrong license or forget to follow the rules, you could lose your ability to sell altogether.

Is getting a liquor license difficult?

It can be. The process involves a lot of paperwork, legal requirements, and waiting. You’ll need to provide documents about your business, your location, your finances, and more. And if you’re in New York City, you also have to notify your local Community Board before applying, which adds another layer to the process.

Because there are so many details involved, many business owners choose to work with a lawyer who understands liquor license requirements. An experienced attorney can help you figure out which license fits your business, prepare your application, and avoid common mistakes that could delay your approval.

If you’re serious about opening a business that sells alcohol, getting a liquor license is one of the most important first steps. It protects your business, keeps you in good standing with the law, and gives your customers confidence that you’re operating legally and responsibly.

How to Get a Liquor License in New York: Step-by-Step

If you’re trying to figure out how to get a liquor license, you’re not alone. The process can feel overwhelming at first, but once you break it down step by step, it becomes much easier to understand. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to do in New York to get approved and start selling alcohol legally.

1. Pick the Right Type of License

Not all liquor licenses are the same, so the first step is choosing the one that matches your business. Ask yourself:

• Will people be drinking alcohol on-site?
• Will I only be selling sealed bottles or cans to go?
• Am I hosting a one-time event or opening a full-time business?

Here are the most common license types in New York:

• On-premises license – This is for restaurants, bars, clubs, or lounges where customers will drink on location.
• Off-premises license – This is for liquor stores, grocery stores, or convenience shops that sell alcohol to take home.
• Special event or temporary permits – These are for one-day or seasonal events, catering companies, breweries, or wineries.

Helpful tip: If you’re unsure which license applies to your situation, a Asset Recovery Attorney can help you avoid choosing the wrong one. Getting it wrong could mean delays or having to start the application over.

2. Make Sure You’re Eligible

Before you start gathering paperwork, you need to make sure you qualify to apply. The State Liquor Authority (SLA) has a few basic rules:

• You must be at least 21 years old
• You need to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• You can’t have a felony conviction (some exceptions may apply)
• You must own or lease the property where the alcohol will be sold
• Your location must meet zoning requirements and SLA regulations

Understanding these New York liquor laws is essential before starting your application. The regulations can be complex, and each municipality may have additional requirements beyond state law.

Special NYC Rule:

If your business is in New York City, you’ll also need to notify your local Community Board at least 30 days before submitting your application. This gives the community a chance to provide feedback or raise concerns.

3. Get Your Paperwork Ready

This step takes the most time, but it’s also where people make the most mistakes. Missing documents or forgetting small details can cause long delays or even lead to a denied application.

Here’s what you’ll usually need to include:

• A floor plan of the premises showing where alcohol will be stored and served
• A copy of your lease agreement or proof of ownership
• Personal background info for all business owners and partners
• A sample menu (for bars or restaurants)
• A business plan showing how your business will operate
• Photos of both the inside and outside of your location
• Financial documents like bank statements and funding sources

Helpful tip: This is a great time to talk to a lawyer. They can help organize your documents, double-check everything, and make sure nothing important is missing.

4. Submit Your Application to the SLA

Once your paperwork is ready, you can submit your application to the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA). According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, proper licensing is a critical component of business compliance that should not be overlooked.

You’ll also need to pay a filing fee, which varies depending on the type of license and your location. We’ll go over costs in more detail later in this guide.

5. Post a Public Notice and Wait for Review

After submitting your application, the SLA will ask you to post a public notice at your business location. This sign lets the community know that you’ve applied for a liquor license and gives people the opportunity to ask questions or raise objections.

During this time, the SLA will:

• Review your paperwork
• Conduct background checks
• Possibly visit your business for an on-site inspection
• Contact your Community Board (if you’re in NYC)

How long does it take?

On average, it takes 10 to 16 weeks for the SLA to process a liquor license application. But if something’s missing or if there are concerns from the community, it could take longer.

6. Attend a Hearing (If Needed)

In some cases, especially in areas where there are already many businesses serving alcohol or where community members have concerns, the SLA may ask you to attend a public hearing.

At the hearing, you’ll have a chance to explain your business, respond to questions, and address any objections.

Helpful tip: If you’re invited to a hearing, it’s a smart idea to bring a lawyer with you. They can speak on your behalf and help make your case stronger.

7. Get Your Liquor License and Start Serving

Once your application is approved, congratulations! You’ll receive your liquor license and can legally start serving or selling alcohol.

But it doesn’t end there. You’ll still need to:

• Follow the rules set by the SLA
• Be ready for inspections at any time
• Renew your license before it expires (usually every 1 to 3 years, depending on the license type)

Breaking the rules can lead to fines, suspension, or losing your license, so staying compliant is key. It’s also important to understand potential liability issues, which is where dram shop law becomes relevant to your business operations.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Liquor License?

A big question many business owners have is: How much does it cost to get a liquor license? And it’s a smart question to ask, because the cost isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on the type of license you need and where your business is located.

In New York, liquor license fees are set by the State Liquor Authority (SLA), and they’re based on the kind of alcohol you plan to sell, how it will be sold, and the size or setup of your business.

Here’s a general breakdown of the most common license types and what they typically cost:

These are just the base fees paid directly to the SLA. But keep in mind, the total cost of getting your liquor license might be higher once you factor in everything that goes into the process.

Are There Other Costs Besides the Application Fee?

Yes, several. Here are some additional expenses you might run into:

• Legal fees – Many business owners choose to hire a Asset Recovery Attorney to help with paperwork, compliance, or community board meetings. Legal support can help you avoid mistakes that cost time and money later.
• Fingerprinting and background checks – The SLA may require you and other owners or partners to submit fingerprints as part of the review process.
• Community Board notifications (NYC only) – If your business is in New York City, you must notify the local Community Board at least 30 days before applying. While this doesn’t always have a direct cost, attending meetings or hiring help to prepare for them may require time and resources.
• Publishing a public notice – After you apply, you’ll need to post a notice at your business. In some cases, you may also be required to publish legal notices in a local newspaper.

The National Restaurant Association reports that proper licensing and compliance costs are a significant factor in restaurant startup expenses, making professional guidance valuable for many business owners.

Is It Worth Hiring a Lawyer?

It might seem like an added expense, but paying for legal help can actually save you money. Here’s why:

• Lawyers who specialize in liquor licensing understand exactly what the SLA is looking for.
• They can help you avoid delays or application rejections caused by missing documents or small errors.
• If your application goes to a hearing, they can speak on your behalf and give your case a better chance of being approved.

For many business owners, having an experienced lawyer handle the process means less stress and faster approval.

So, how much does it cost to get a liquor license? In most cases, you should plan to spend anywhere from $1,000 to over $6,000, depending on your license type and location. Add in extra costs for legal support and processing, and the full amount might be a bit higher, but getting it done right the first time is worth it.

If you’re ready to take the next step but want help navigating the process, The Kearney Law Group can guide you through each stage, from selecting the right license to final approval.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Now that you know how to get a liquor license, here are a few things to watch out for:

• Missing documents – Even one small mistake can cause delays.
• Wrong license – Make sure you’re applying for the right one.
• Zoning problems – Not all buildings or neighborhoods allow alcohol sales.
• Ignoring local boards – In NYC, skipping the Community Board notice is a major issue.

Understanding these common pitfalls can help you avoid costly delays and ensure your application process goes smoothly.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

You can apply for a liquor license on your own, but it’s a lot easier with someone who knows the process. A liquor licensing attorney can help you:

• Gather the right documents
• Meet deadlines
• Handle Community Board questions
• Represent you at SLA hearings

The Kearney Law Group helps New York businesses get through this process without the stress. With a background as a former judge and state prosecutor, Cannon C. Kearney knows what it takes to work with government agencies and get results.

It’s also worth noting that if you plan to serve alcohol at events or parties, understanding social host liability law can protect you from potential legal issues down the road.

What If Your Application Gets Denied?

If your liquor license application is denied, don’t panic. You have options:

• Appeal the decision
• Ask for a review if new info becomes available
• Fix the issue and reapply

Having a lawyer on your side can make all the difference in turning things around.

Conclusion: How to Get a Liquor License the Smart Way

If you’re serious about opening a bar, restaurant, or shop that sells alcohol in New York, it’s important to understand how to get a liquor license. The steps might seem overwhelming, but with the right plan and the right legal support, you can get it done.

It’s also smart to plan and know how much it costs to get a liquor license so you’re not surprised by fees or paperwork later on.

Need help with your application? Contact The Kearney Law Group today to get clear, confident legal help from start to finish.