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In Louisiana, anyone operating a business that sells alcohol must understand the various types of liquor licenses available to them. This is true for restaurants, bars, microbreweries, and package stores. This guide covers the common types of Louisiana liquor licenses, including their costs, the process for obtaining and renewing them, and the details of the application process. From breweries and wineries to bars and restaurants, this guide provides practical insights to help you navigate the liquor licensing process in Louisiana.
Key Takeaways
- Anyone looking to sell or distribute alcohol in Louisiana must first obtain a liquor license.
- There are various Louisiana liquor license types available, depending on your business model. Factors determining this include whether alcohol is consumed on-site or sold for off-site consumption.
- All state laws and regulations related to alcohol, such as DUI rules and public drinking restrictions, remain in effect for patrons of any establishment selling alcoholic beverages.
Types of Louisiana Liquor Licenses
Before you begin the process of obtaining a Louisiana liquor license, it’s important to understand the different types of licenses for which you may apply. Here are the main categories:
| On-Premise Permit (Class AG) | A permit issued to establishments where customers purchase and consume alcoholic beverages on the premises.[1]State of Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control. “Class A-General Bar.” Accessed November 17, 2025. |
| Manufacturer/Supplier | Issued to entities engaged in manufacturing, blending, or processing alcoholic beverages. |
| Microbrewery | Allows the brewing of beer and malt beverages up to a specified annual limit. |
| Microdistillery | Permits the production, distillation, or processing of alcoholic beverages up to a specified annual volume. The “micro” prefix refers to a somewhat limited scope of production, capped at no more than 12,000 gallons per licensed year.[2]Louisiana State Legislature. “RS 26:71.3.” Accessed on November 17, 2025. |
| Package Store (Class B – Low-Content) | Package stores sell sealed containers for off-premises consumption, with permit classes varying by the type and strength of alcohol sold. |
| Package Store (Class C – High-Content / Liquor Store) | Operates as a principal seller of alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption. |
| Restaurant (Class AR) | A permit for restaurants that prepare and serve food as their primary business activity. Applicants must demonstrate that their operation meets the ATC’s definition of a bona fide restaurant. However, Louisiana law does not require a strict “50% food-sales” threshold. |
| Special Events | Temporary permits for events where alcohol is served, subject to location-specific regulations.[3]State of Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control. “Special Events.” Accessed November 17, 2025. |
| Wine Producer | For individuals growing grapes, fruits, or other materials for wine production. |
What Type of Liquor License Do I Need?
The type of liquor license you’ll require depends almost entirely on the specifics of your business. For instance, a restaurant would typically apply for a Class AR permit, bars use a Class AG permit, and liquor stores would need a Class C permit. Thus, your establishment’s primary function is the key to determining the license type that’s right for you.
Liquor License Requirements for Louisiana
To obtain a liquor license in Louisiana, you must adhere to specific requirements and submit the necessary documents. Here’s an overview of the items you’ll need to include with your application:
- Colored Copy of Photo ID: One government-issued ID and/or driver’s license per applicant.
- Diagram of Premises: A diagram showing the layout of the licensed premises, including entrances, exits, restrooms, bars, tables, kitchen, and storage areas.
- Fingerprint Cards and Fees: Each owner, officer, director, member, or person with more than a 5% ownership must provide authorization and disclosure forms, two fingerprint cards, and a submission certification form (if submitted online).
- Proof of Local Alcohol Permit: Evidence of obtaining or applying for a local alcoholic beverage permit prior to receiving the state permit.
- Proof of Publication and Newspaper Ad: Include a proof of publication letter from the city or parish newspaper, plus a copy of the advertisement. Required only if a Notice of Intent (NOI) posting is triggered.
- Schedule A Forms: Completed and signed Schedule A forms for each owner, partner, officer, or member owning more than 5%, plus all appointed managers.
- Schedule F Forms (if applicable): Required if the applicant has a felony conviction, or if a spouse with a community-property interest has one.
- Written Concession Agreement: A signed and dated agreement to comply with all alcohol laws. Concession agreements are only required if the business operates inside another establishment.
Other Necessary Permits
In addition to a liquor license, Louisiana-based businesses may require other permits to operate legally. These include health permits for safety compliance, zoning permits for land use approval, and signage permits for outdoor advertising. Occupancy permits ensure compliance with building codes and capacity limits. Fire safety permits may also be necessary.
Beyond obtaining permits, businesses that sell alcohol must also secure a high-risk merchant account to process payments. Alcohol sales are considered higher-risk due to chargeback potential, age-restricted products, and regulatory requirements. As a result, standard payment processors may not approve these businesses. A high-risk merchant account ensures that transactions are processed securely and in compliance with industry and banking regulations.
Understanding Liquor Laws in Louisiana
Selling alcoholic beverages to anyone under 21 is against the law. Open container laws in Louisiana prohibit the possession of alcoholic beverages in the passenger area of a motor vehicle, although certain exceptions apply.
Additionally, the state enforces strict regulations regarding driving under the influence. In this case, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% indicates intoxication. Additionally, Louisiana’s DWI laws extend beyond alcohol to include other drugs, including both legal and controlled substances. Penalties for violating the aforementioned laws range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
Anyone seeking to obtain or maintain a Louisiana liquor license should be thoroughly familiar with all state and local laws governing the sale, service, and distribution of alcoholic beverages. This includes regulations related to age restrictions, open container rules, and impaired driving laws. A comprehensive understanding of these requirements is essential for remaining in full compliance with Louisiana law and avoiding penalties that may affect licensure status.
How Much Does a Liquor License Cost in Louisiana?
Louisiana maintains statewide fee structures and maximums for alcoholic beverage permits. However, actual charges can vary by parish or municipality. For example, New Orleans sets its own permit fees within the limits established by state law:[4]City of New Orleans. “Alcoholic Beverage Outlet License.” Accessed November 17, 2025.
- High Content (Liquor) Permit: $500.00
- Low Content (Beer) Permit: $135.00
- Occupational License: $50.00 minimum
- Wine Permit: $300.00
Additional fees apply if the business is located in specific zoning districts:
- Vieux Carre Commission (VCC) Zoning District:
- ABO Issuance Fee: $125.00
- ABO Processing Fee: $50.00
- New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission (N.O. HDLC):
- ABO Issuance Fee: $125.00
- ABO Processing Fee: $50.00
- Central Business Historic District Landmarks Commission (CDB HDLC):
- ABO Issuance Fee: $125.00
- ABO Processing Fee: $50.00
How to Apply for a Liquor License in Louisiana
To acquire a liquor license in Louisiana, one must adhere to the following steps:
- Submit the Notice of Intent (NOI) Poster Application: Determine if the premises in question held an alcoholic beverage permit within the past six months. If no such permit exists, submit the NOI application and display the requisite posters outside the premises for at least 15 days before submitting the application packet. If there was a previous permit, you can submit both the NOI application and the alcoholic beverage application packet simultaneously.
- Complete the Alcoholic Beverage Application: Ensure all fields in the application are filled out, all questions are answered, and the application is properly signed and notarized.
- Attach the Necessary Documents: Ensure that any obligatory documents have been accounted for.
- Submit the Completed Application and Attachments: Mail or deliver the signed and completed application, along with any required attachments.
How to Renew Your Louisiana Liquor License
If you want to renew your Alcoholic Beverage Outlet (ABO) license in New Orleans, keep the following information in mind:
- Submission Options:
- Renew online through the One Stop Shop website if you are a web administrator for the business.
- Email your renewal application to [email protected].
- Mail your renewal application to the Department of Safety and Permits at 1340 Poydras St, Suite 800, New Orleans, LA 70112.
- Deadlines:
- Renewals must be filed with the Department of Safety and Permits by April 1st.
- Delinquency penalties start accruing on April 6th.
- ABO permits expire on May 31st each year.
- Payment:
- Renewal fees vary depending on the type of alcohol permit.
- Late fees apply to applications submitted on or after April 6th.
- Payment methods include checks, cashier’s checks, money orders (for mail-in or drop-off), and online payment using MasterCard, Discover, or Visa.
- Required Documents:
- Completed and signed ABO & Live Entertainment Renewal and Update Form (pages 2-4).
- Local Tax Clearance from the City of New Orleans Bureau of Revenue.
- Proof of Tax Clearance from the Louisiana State Department of Revenue and Taxation.
- Supplementary documents may be required, such as a copy of the executed lease, plot plan/layout, acknowledgment of bar or restaurant use standards, and a litter abatement checklist.
- Tax Clearance Process:
- If you did not receive a tax clearance by mail, you can obtain it in person, by fax, or by email from the City of New Orleans Bureau of Revenue.
- Renewal Addendum: Complete the Alcoholic Beverage Renewal Addendum and mail it to the Bureau of Revenue at the provided address.
Note: The renewal information listed applies specifically to New Orleans ABO permits. Other cities and parishes may follow different renewal schedules, so businesses must check their local regulations in addition to state requirements.
Getting a Beer and Wine License in Louisiana: Closing Thoughts
To obtain a beer and wine license in Louisiana, you must review all applicable license categories and comply with the specific requirements as dictated by state law. Depending on what your business specializes in, you’ll need to apply for the corresponding license type. Essential documents include a written concession agreement, proof of local alcohol permit, fingerprint cards, and a colored copy of photo ID.
To get yourself up and running, you also need to be able to accept payments reliably. PaymentCloud is a trusted partner for bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol. Our payment solutions for bars and restaurants include industry-specific features such as chargeback protection, high-volume processing capabilities, and age-verification-friendly systems, all designed to help your business run smoothly and remain fully compliant.
With PaymentCloud serving your payment needs, you can focus on serving your customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a liquor license in Louisiana?
The application process can take several weeks to a few months to complete.
Do you need a liquor license to sell beer or wine in Louisiana?
Yes, a liquor license is required to sell beer or wine in the state of Louisiana. Different types of licenses are available, depending on the nature of your business.
Is it hard to get a liquor license in Louisiana?
By carefully navigating the different permit types and adhering to compliance standards, you can make the process much smoother.
How long does a Louisiana liquor license last?
A Louisiana liquor license lasts for one year, expiring on May 31st of each year. Liquor merchants should submit renewal applications annually to retain their license without hassle.
How do I get a temporary or one-day liquor license in Louisiana?
To serve or sell alcohol at a one-time event in Louisiana, you’ll need a Special Event Permit from the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC). This temporary liquor license allows alcohol service for up to three consecutive days, but you can apply for just one day if that’s all you need.
