In most states, a liquor license is considered a business asset and may be sold or transferred from one retailer to another. Often, this practice involves a business broker or a liquor license broker to facilitate a sale and the buyer must be qualified by the respective state. For instance, in the state of Florida, a buyer must apply with the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco in Tallahassee prior to buying a liquor license from a seller.
Instructions
1. Determine your state's liquor license selling and transfer laws. Although laws vary by state, generally speaking, states require an entrepreneur or business owner purchasing a liquor license to provide proof of identification and pass a criminal background check. Be aware that you cannot sell your liquor license to anyone with a criminal record. Familiarize yourself with the responsibilities your state mandates to sell and/or transfer a liquor license legally.
2. Verify your liquor license. Prior to selling your liquor license, check with the state to determine if there are any liens or fines against your establishment and your liquor license is in good order. For example, in some states, if you have unpaid liquor invoices from suppliers, your license may be temporarily suspended until the invoices are paid in full.
3. List your liquor license with a broker. Because of the nature of the bar and restaurant business, turnover of owners and businesses is constant. Contact a business or liquor license broker to inquire about potential buyers and valuing the amount of your liquor license. These individuals have extensive experience in handling the sale of liquor licenses and what government agencies the buyer and seller need to comply with to secure a legal transaction.
