Opening a liquor store in Florida is an exciting venture, but before you can stock your shelves, you’ll need to navigate the state’s detailed liquor licensing process. Florida’s alcohol laws are strict, and failing to follow them can delay your opening or even jeopardize your business. To help you get started, here’s a breakdown of the seven essential steps and requirements for obtaining a Florida liquor license.
1. Identify the Right Liquor License for Your Business
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) issues several types of licenses for selling alcohol. The two main categories are:
- Alcohol Package Sales License (APS): For businesses that sell alcohol to be consumed off-premises, such as liquor stores, grocery stores, and convenience shops.
- Consumption on Premises License (COP): For establishments like bars and restaurants where alcohol is served for immediate consumption.
If you’re opening a liquor store, you’ll likely need an APS license. Florida offers three main APS types:
- 1APS: For selling packaged beer only.
- 2APS: For selling beer and wine.
- 3APS: For selling beer, wine, and spirits.
Choosing the correct category upfront will ensure you meet the right requirements for your store’s operations.
2. Learn How Florida’s Quota System Works
Florida regulates how many full-service liquor stores can operate in each county. The quota system allows just one 3APS license for every 7,500 residents, making competition fierce.
You have three ways to obtain a license:
- Enter the state lottery: The DBPR holds an annual lottery between August and October. The entry fee is $100, but winning is rare due to high demand.
- Purchase an existing license: Licenses can be bought or sold privately, but prices can reach between $500,000 and $1 million depending on location.
- Start smaller: If you don’t secure a 3APS license, consider selling only beer or wine under a 1APS or 2APS license, which are not limited by quotas.
Regardless of how you acquire your license, you’ll still need to complete the DBPR’s formal application process.
3. Prepare Your Personal Documentation
Before applying, you must prove you’re eligible to hold a liquor license. The state requires applicants to be at least 21 years old and of “good moral character.”
You’ll need to provide:
- Authorized fingerprints
- Your Social Security number
- Personal financial records if using loans to fund the business
If you have a criminal history, you may need to include court documents and evidence of rehabilitation. Florida may deny applications for individuals with certain felony convictions or prior alcohol-related offenses within the past decade.
4. Gather Your Business Records
Florida’s application process also requires specific business documentation. Before applying, make sure you have:
- Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN): Required for tax filing and employee hiring.
- Department of Revenue clearance: Proof that your business is registered for state tax purposes.
- Right of occupancy: A lease or deed showing you legally operate at your chosen location.
- Zoning approval: Verification that your store complies with local zoning regulations, including distance requirements from schools or churches.
- Store layout sketch: A diagram of your store, highlighting entrances, exits, stockrooms, and checkout areas.
- Financial documents: Loan agreements, business contracts, and other records supporting your financial readiness.
Compiling these materials early ensures you’re not held up later in the process.
5. Estimate Your Licensing Costs
Liquor license fees in Florida vary by county population. Here’s a general breakdown of annual costs:
- Counties with over 100,000 residents: $1,365
- Counties with over 75,000 residents: $1,170
- Counties with over 50,000 residents: $643.50
- Counties with under 25,000 residents: $468
Licenses must be renewed each year by September 30. Keep in mind that if you purchase a quota license through a private sale, you’ll also pay market value in addition to the renewal fee.
6. Submit Your Application and Wait for Processing
Once you have your documents ready and fees calculated, it’s time to apply. The easiest way to submit your application is through the DBPR’s online portal, though you can also mail or hand-deliver paper forms.
Processing times vary depending on the application’s complexity, but most approvals take between one and three months. To avoid delays, double-check your paperwork and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
7. Stay Compliant With Florida’s Alcohol Laws
After receiving your license, compliance becomes your top priority. Florida has strict regulations regarding how, when, and where alcohol can be sold.
Key laws to follow include:
- Age verification: Selling to anyone under 21 is illegal, so ID checks are mandatory.
- Excise and sales taxes: You must pay state excise taxes on alcohol inventory and collect local sales tax from customers.
- Restricted hours: Some counties limit Sunday sales or restrict sales during state emergencies.
- Record keeping: Keep detailed records of all purchases from authorized distributors, as inspectors may request proof during audits.
Maintaining compliance not only protects your license but also builds trust with customers and local authorities.
Building a Strong Foundation for Success
Obtaining a liquor license in Florida requires patience, organization, and careful attention to detail. From choosing the right license type to following ongoing compliance rules, every step matters. A well-prepared business owner can move through the process efficiently and open their doors sooner.
