How to Get a New York State Liquor License

The sale of liquor, whether for retail or wholesale purposes, is tightly controlled in the state of New York. In an effort to protect businesses and citizens alike, New York requires that all retail and wholesale liquor sellers acquire a liquor license appropriate to their type of business and clientele. The process to obtain a liquor license in New York requires ample planning. You should leave, at minimum, two months of time before you open your business to file.

• 1

  Check to make sure that you meet all of the requirements to obtain a New York State liquor license. You must be over 21 years of age, a non-felon and a citizen of the state. You cannot be an officer of the law in New York or any other state.

• 2

  Look around your business site to see if there are any places of worship or educational institutions. The state of New York prohibits any businesses that sell alcohol from being closer than 200 feet from churches and schools. A state official will examine your establishment prior to application approval. If your business is within 200 feet of a church or school, your license application will be denied.

• 3

  Request a liquor license application from the New York State Liquor Authority. You can visit the state's website or ask for an application over the phone or in person.

• 4

  Fill out the license application. Specify the correct zone for your business. The state of New York contains three different zones in which to possess a liquor license. The Liquor Authority contains the addresses to the different offices, or you can find a link to office locations in the Resources section. Submit your application when you are finished.

• 5

  Sign in to the New York State Liquor Authority website to monitor the status of your application. The site will display whether your contract is pending, active or completed. Your license may take a few weeks to be approved.