1. Know what type of license you are applying for.

The first step in obtaining a liquor license in Michigan is determining the type of liquor license you need. The most common types of liquor licenses are on-premise and off-premise licenses. If you would like a liquor license for selling alcohol that will be consumed at your place of business, such as a restaurant or bar, you will be applying for an on-premise license. On the other hand, if you will be selling alcohol for consumption elsewhere, for instance, if your business is a liquor store, you will be applying for an off-premise liquor license.

2. Obtain the proper licensing applications.

Once you know what type of liquor license you will be applying for, you will need to download the appropriate forms from the State of Michigan’s website. You can download your liquor license application in a PDF format, print it out, complete it, and return it to the licensing division of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) at their Lansing offices for processing. Whether you are applying for a new license or you are applying for a liquor license transfer, you will also need to complete an Application for New Licenses or Application of Buyers for Transfer of Ownership or Interest in License, which is also available as a downloadable PDF.

3. Know the costs involved.

You can expect to pay around $250 for your Retail Liquor Dealer Tax Stamp. This must be renewed yearly and is required for any business selling alcohol. Failure to renew your Retail Liquor Dealer Tax Stamp annually will result in penalties and could lead to having your Michigan liquor license revoked. Being aware of both initial and future expenses when it comes to your liquor license is vital.

4. Review requirements for liquor license eligibility.

There are a number of requirements that you should be sure you meet before attempting to obtain your Michigan liquor license. People who have been convicted of felony crimes or any crime involving the excessive use of alcohol are not eligible to obtain a liquor license in Michigan. Reviewing the requirements before beginning the process of obtaining a liquor license can save you a lot of time and energy in the long run.–

Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC is a Michigan law firm specializing in business matters including liquor license transfers, franchise law, and restaurant law.

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