Liquor and tobacco are some of the most lucrative products to sell in retail establishments. Many Georgia businesses choose to add liquor to their product offerings to both boost sales and attract customers. Other companies choose to offer forms of tobacco either as their primary product or as upsells. In the United States, both liquor and tobacco products are regulated, which means that only eligible vendors are allowed to sell them.
A liquor license allows the sale of liquor on a premise, while a tobacco license permits tobacco sales. Obtaining either license (or both) in the state of Georgia is ambitious and is a hurdle to overcome, but the result is completely worth it. This article will help you navigate the process to get your permits without trouble.
Who Needs a Liquor and Tobacco License?
Any business wishing to sell liquor or tobacco must obtain the corresponding license before engaging in transactions involving either type of substance. The real question here is: Do you truly want (or need) to sell liquor or tobacco at your establishment? If so, then you should take the steps necessary to move forward with your license acquisition.
Typical businesses selling alcohol and tobacco products are as follows:
- Wine and spirits stores
- Beer distributors
- Retail stores
- Convenience stores
- Restaurants
- Bars
- Night clubs, lounges
- Resorts
- Venues
- Pharmacies
Other needs could be for special events such as conventions, corporate gatherings, or weddings. Event planners wishing to include alcohol on the menu should obtain the liquor license ahead of time.
In addition to retail establishments, there are licenses for manufacturing and distributing operations.
What Can You Do with a Liquor or Tobacco License?
As the holder of a liquor or tobacco license, you are legally allowed to manufacture, import, export, purchase, stock, and sell such products to consumers through POS transactions. You can continue to handle the merchandise so long as your permit is valid.
How To Get a GA Liquor License
Applying for a GA liquor license is technically very easy, but it will take a bit of time. You will need to fill out the correct form for the type of license that you want, then submit it with the required documents and fee.
Find the form that you need here.
Next, gather the documents that they request. Examples are below:
- Citizenship affidavit
- Personal identification documents
- Business information
- Financial statements
- Background investigation
- Tax clearance
- Fingerprint processing
Next, register at the Georgia Tax Center online:
- Visit https://gtc.dor.ga.gov/_/
- Click “Individual”
- Click “Register a New Permit Account”
- Complete all fields and press submit
- Record your confirmation number
Please note that there are fees associated with each license.
What Else Do I Need to Do After My Liquor Application?
In general, you can just follow the directions from your application. Certain licenses will require you to post a public notice of application at your retail location for a 30-day duration. Others mandate a newspaper post or to notify neighbors.
How To Get a GA Tobacco License
Applying for a GA tobacco license is fairly simple but requires a lot of time to complete. Basically, you must fill out the form for the type of license that you want, then submit it along with any documents they require:
- Find the right form here:
- Next, gather documents that they may require. They may be the same as the documents listed above for the liquor license.
- Next, visit their official tax portal and apply for a tobacco permit in the same manner as the liquor license.
Please note that each license requires a fee.
How Long Will It Take to Get My Tobacco or Liquor License?
Although each case is different, you can expect to receive your new tobacco or liquor license within four to six months. The time it takes to process your application greatly depends on the type of license, the effort it takes to complete clearances, and other such background activities.
Where To Display Your License
You must display your valid liquor or tobacco license in a public area near the POS that is visible to employees and patrons. This will prove to customers and authorities that you are eligible to work with such products in a legal manner.
How Many Licenses Do I Need?
You only need one license for a location of business. However, you will need separate licenses for each additional location where you plan to conduct business.
Can I Transfer My License?
Yes, you can transfer your license to the new establishment or business owner. There will be stipulations such as required processing, investigations, and fees. If the new business wishes to continue selling the regulated products, then it will need to complete the transfer process. The transfer can take between four to six months to complete.
How Often Do I Need to Renew My License?
Both tobacco and liquor licenses expire after one year. If you wish to continue serving either product at your establishment, then you must renew your license each year. You can do so at the Georgia Tax Center online with your login information and the appropriate fee. In order to prevent any unnecessary delays, start the process by early September to ensure that you will have your license available by the time the next fiscal year starts. The latest you should start your license renewal is early November.
What Are the Regulations?
There are extensive regulations pertaining to liquor and tobacco sales in the state of Georgia. It is a good idea to read through all of them to ensure proper compliance with the local rules. You may find all of them here.
Supplement Your Tobacco or Alcohol Income with COAM Games
A liquor or tobacco license will allow you to increase your potential revenue with skill games. On average, COAM brings in an additional $5,000 per month to each location. While you’re waiting around for your application to process, take the time to bring in another source of income. Inamax offers skill-based games that patrons love to spend time playing while drinking their beverages of choice. Contact us for a free consultation to start upgrading your venue today!