Understanding Beer and Wine Licenses in California: What You Need to Know

1. 510.773.7773 sales@licensebrokers.com 2135 Jackson Ave, Escalon, CA 95320 8:30am – 6:30pm Monday to Friday    Home Who We Are Buying Selling Escrow Contact Us Buy a Beer and Wine License in California In California, the distribution of liquor licenses, including Beer and Wine Licenses, is governed by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). The process of obtaining a Beer and Wine License can be intricate and time-consuming. The limited availability of licenses makes it difficult to find a seller willing to transfer their Beer and Wine License at a reasonable price. Many new business owners often find themselves purchasing these necessary permits from existing license Liquor License Brokers Home Who We Are Buying Selling Escrow holders, which can drive prices significantly higher. In competitive markets, the costs for these permits can escalate, with Type 20 off- sale licenses for establishments like convenience stores sometimes exceeding $25,000. Although obtaining a Beer and Wine License can represent a substantial financial commitment, it frequently turns out to be a wise investment. Contact Us For first-time applicants, navigating the liquor licensing process can be overwhelming. At License Brokers, we guide you through each step of securing your Beer and Wine License, from identifying local sellers to finalizing the closing process. Our expertise provides you with effective strategies tailored to meet your specific business needs. If you operate a restaurant or bar and have yet to secure your liquor license, you may be missing a lucrative opportunity. Many proprietors strive to acquire at least a Beer and Wine License, significantly impacting profits and overall business success. Offering customers the beverages they expect is crucial, making the pursuit of necessary permits vital. Beer and wine has become essential to dining experiences in California, with many restaurants depending on alcohol sales for a substantial portion of their revenue. On-Sale General Off-Sale General On-Sale Beer and Wine This license permits the sale of all alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption, including the ability to sell beer and wine in sealed containers for off-premises consumption. This category primarily includes the Type 47 liquor license for restaurant-bars and the Type 48 liquor license for bars that do not serve food. This license allows for the sale of any alcoholic beverages in sealed containers for off-premise consumption. Typically, this is represented by the Type 21 liquor license, which enables liquor stores to sell all types of alcohol to-go. This license authorizes the service of beer and wine for on-site consumption and also allows for sealed off-site sales. Common types are the Type 41 Beer and Wine license for restaurants and the Type 42 Beer and Wine license for bars focused solely on beer and wine.

2. Off-Sale Beer and Wine On-Sale Beer This license permits the sale of beer and wine in sealed containers for off-site consumption. The Type 20 beer and wine license fits into this category, which currently has a moratorium in many areas and usually costs upwards of $9,000. We specialize in selling licenses like these to convenience stores, grocery stores, gas stations, and other retail establishments that focus on selling beer and wine to-go. This license restricts sales strictly to beer, allowing for both on-premises and off- premises consumption. Liquor License Brokers Home Who We Are Buying Selling Escrow Contact Us Type of License Local Market Competition Application and Transfer Fees Understanding the distinction between on- sale and off-sale Beer and Wine Licenses is crucial. On-sale licenses, which allow patrons to enjoy beer and wine on the premises, are generally more affordable The competitive environment in your area plays a significant role in determining the cost of a Beer and Wine License. In densely populated urban centers or areas When applying for a Beer and Wine License, you may encounter various associated fees. These can include application fees, transfer fees if you are

3. and readily available. In contrast, off-sale licenses—particularly the Type 20 Beer and Wine License, which permits the sale of beverages in sealed containers for off- site consumption—tend to be more desirable and, consequently, command higher prices. with limited licensing options, prices can soar. For example, Type 20 licenses can range from approximately $9,000 to $25,000, with costs varying by city or county. purchasing from an existing license holder, and potential escrow fees. It’s essential to factor these expenses into your overall budget. Negotiation Variables Renewal Fees Zoning and Additional Permits The final price of acquiring a Beer and Wine License from another holder can fluctuate based on negotiation dynamics and the seller’s urgency. For instance, sellers who need to sell quickly may offer a discount, while those with more flexibility might hold out for a higher price. Once your Beer and Wine License is obtained, you should plan for annual renewal fees. For a Type 20 license, these costs are approximately $500 per year, according to the 2025 California ABC annual fee schedule. It’s important to ensure that these fees are paid promptly, even if you do not receive a reminder from the ABC. Additional costs may arise based on your establishment’s specific location and any zoning permits that may be needed. Be sure to research local regulations to cover all potential expenses thoroughly. Liquor License Brokers Home Who We Are Buying Selling Escrow Contact Us Marketing Your Beer and Wine License Beer and Wine Licenses for Every Business Type

4. Why Choose a Brokerage for Your Liquor License Transactions   ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: CONTACT US: How Much is a Liquor License in California? License Brokers 2135 Jackson Ave, Escalon, CA 95320 Types of Liquor Licenses in California What is a Type 47 Liquor License? What is a Type 48 Liquor License?

5. What is a Type 21 Liquor License? Phone: 510.773.7773 Email: sales@licensebrokers.com Beer and Wine Licenses Buying Selling Escrow Legal Sitemap Privacy Policy  Facebook  Twitter LinkedIn  © 2025 LicenseBrokers.com