ATTENTION: On Feb. 13, LCB began using a new records management system. Over the next few weeks there may be minor slowdowns as staff learn the new tool.
If your business deals with the importation, manufacture, distribution or sale of alcohol in Washington State, you need a liquor license.
A liquor license is an endorsement on your Business License issued by the Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) Business Licensing. You must complete an additional Business License Application even if you already have a Business License to obtain a liquor license.
After you submit your liquor license application, the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) will guide you through the licensing process to verify your business meets all licensing requirements.
Liquor License Starter’s Guide
If you are new to the licensing process, please view our Starter’s Guide. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of obtaining a liquor license in the State of Washington. Click here to view the Starter’s Guide.
If you have applied for a license before or need quick access to our resources, review the brief overview below on how to submit your application:
When to Apply
Applications for a liquor license should be submitted 90 days before the anticipated opening date. If an application is submitted too far in advance, it may be administratively withdrawn and you will be encouraged to apply closer to your opening date. If you are applying for a non-retail liquor license, you must obtain your approved TTB Federal Permit before applying.
License Types
Use the descriptions in the links below to figure out what type of liquor license you need.
- Retail liquor license descriptions and fees:
- Non-retail liquor license descriptions and fees:
How to Apply
You can apply online through Business Licensing at dor.wa.gov and go to the liquor licenses section to complete your application.
In addition to applying through Business Licensing Services, complete an Alcohol Dealer Registration. Mail this form to the U.S. Department of the Treasury Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) at the address on the form.
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Note: If you are applying for a Spirits Retailer liquor license and intend to sell to on-premises liquor retailers for resale at their licensed premises, or for a Wine Retailer/Reseller Endorsement, you will also need a federal Basic Permit under the Federal Alcohol Administration Act. This allows you to purchase product for resale at wholesale prices, and a permit is required for each location where you plan to sell to another retailer. Apply for this permit online with at https://www.ttbonline.gov/permitsonline/. It is recommended that you post this permit on your premises with your other licenses.
Applying for an out-of-state non retail licenses? View this page for instructions on applying.
Not finding a liquor license that fits your business?
Alcohol permits cover a wide variety of activities and can be issued to both businesses and private citizens. You can find a list of permits and application instructions here.
You may need additional local, state and federal licenses for your business that are not covered under the Business License Application. For more information on licensing requirements for your business, contact Department of Revenue Business Licensing Services at 360-705-6741 or BLS@dor.wa.gov..