Buy A Liquor License In California
Biggest Inventory, Best Prices Through Liquor License Network
Serving California Cities including Sacramento, San Francisco, Fresno, Los Angeles, and San Diego
How To Buy A Liquor License
Obtaining a liquor license in California can be a frustrating and overwhelming process, but with Liquor License Network, we have the knowledge required to make the transaction smooth and effortless. We understand that many of our clients are unfamiliar with the process of liquor license acquisitions. See the Alcohol Beverage Control licensing information here.
Our services are unmatched in the industry by being committed to you, the client, through our in-depth experience in the handling of hundreds of license transfers. Our clients are able to avoid the many unforeseeable pitfalls of a complicated liquor license process.
Our service area includes San Francisco, Sacramento, Fresno, San Diego, Los Angeles and the entire state of California.
5 Basic Steps To Begin A Business Selling Alcohol
- Sign a lease or buy a property
- Call a broker or find a liquor license
- File a state and city application
- Get approved with state and city
- Start selling your alcoholic beverages to your customers and make money!
Details On How We Help You
Our Complete Guide on How to Buy a Liquor License in California
Understanding how to buy a liquor license in California is one of the most important steps when opening a restaurant, bar, market, convenience store, tasting room, hotel, or entertainment venue. Because alcohol licensing is heavily regulated by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), the process can feel overwhelming for business owners who need clear answers, accurate pricing, and a smooth, timely transfer. This guide breaks down each step in simple, actionable language using SEO and AEO best practices—helping you quickly understand what to expect and how Liquor License Network can assist.
1. Determine the Type of Liquor License You Need
Before you can buy a liquor license, you must determine which license type fits your business model.
The most common California alcohol licenses include:
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Type 20 – Off-sale beer & wine (markets, gas stations, liquor stores)
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Type 21 – Off-sale general (full liquor stores)
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Type 41 – On-sale beer & wine for restaurants with food
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Type 47 – On-sale general for restaurants
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Type 48 – On-sale general for bars, clubs, taverns
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Type 57 – Special on-sale general (private clubs)
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Type 75 – Brewpub license
Selecting the right license ensures you comply with ABC laws and prevents costly delays. Many buyers contact Liquor License Network for a consultation to confirm the correct license type before moving forward.
2. Check Availability in Your County
In California, certain alcohol license types are quota-controlled, meaning only a limited number exist. Demand varies by county, and availability changes daily. Some counties have long waiting lists, while others require purchasing an existing license from a current license holder.
A professional broker like Liquor License Network maintains a large inventory of available licenses across the state and can quickly tell you what is available immediately—and what requires sourcing from owners not actively selling.
3. Understand Pricing and Market Conditions
Liquor license prices are set by private-market supply and demand and can fluctuate throughout the year. Location, competition, population growth, and business demand all influence pricing.
This is why understanding how to buy a liquor license includes knowing:
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Fair market value
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Recent comparable sales
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County-specific price trends
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Whether seasonal demand will affect cost
Liquor License Network uses a technology-driven database tracking all recent license transfers statewide, ensuring buyers never overpay.
4. Verify Zoning and Local Approvals
Before purchasing, your business location must meet local city and county requirements. Depending on your jurisdiction, you may need:
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Zoning clearance
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Conditional Use Permit (CUP)
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Public Notice of Application
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Police or planning department review
Skipping this step can delay approval or result in denial—even after you’ve paid for the license.
5. Begin the Purchase & Escrow Process
All California liquor licenses are transferred through a regulated escrow. The steps include:
- Negotiating price and terms
- Opening escrow with a licensed escrow company
- Submitting ABC transfer paperwork
- Posting the required public notice
- Fingerprint/background checks
- ABC site inspection
- Final approval and license issuance
A broker manages these steps to prevent errors, ensure compliance, and keep the process moving.
6. Close Escrow and Operate With Your New License
Once ABC approves the transfer and all conditions are met, escrow closes and the license becomes active. Liquor License Network stays involved through the final approval to ensure a smooth transition.
Get Help Buying a Liquor License
If you’re evaluating how to buy a liquor license in California, working with an experienced brokerage ensures faster results, accurate pricing, and full compliance with state and local regulations. Liquor License Network handles the entire process—from locating the license to negotiating, processing permits, and managing escrow—so you can focus on your business.
Contact Liquor License Network today for expert guidance on buying a liquor license anywhere in California.
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