Whether you’re getting ready to open a bar or restaurant in New York, or you’re interested in adding liquor sales to your existing establishment, serving alcohol is an easy way to help drive more sales within your business.
What You Should Know About Liquor License Laws
However, before you apply, it’s vital that you understand the laws around how to get and maintain a liquor license in New York. There are several factors to be aware of, some of which include:
- Licensing programs
- Guidelines for eligibility
- Alcoholic Beverage Control Law
- The New York State Liquor Authority
Types of Licenses
New York State’s alcohol sales licenses are available for wholesale and retail usage. A wholesale license allows you to manufacture, stock and distribute alcohol to retailers, who can then buy alcohol at your prices and distribute it and sell to customers for profit.
A retail license allows you to sell and/or serve alcoholic beverages to consumers through your business. This is the license bars and restaurants must have to operate under New York State liquor laws.
Applying for a Liquor License
In New York, in order to apply for a liquor license, you must be at least 21 years old, a United States citizen, and have no criminal convictions. If you fall within these requirements, you can call the New York Liquor Authority office or visit their website to get an application form. Once you complete the form, you’ll need to mail it in for processing.
Once the application has been received by your region’s office, you’ll be required to pay a non-refundable fee. This is why it’s important you fully qualify for the license before applying. A New York Liquor license attorney can help you navigate the ins and outs of the state’s liquor sales laws to ensure you’re eligible and will qualify for your certification.
If you need help understanding the specifics of the ABC laws and license types, contact us at Gordon & Gordon today. Our law professionals have an understanding of the entire application process and can help you get certified, as well as represent you against the New York Liquor Authority in the case that you’re faced with related charges.