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When obtaining an Illinois liquor license there are several steps to follow and forms to file before a license will be granted. While the process of obtaining the license may seem repetitive with time, patience and persistence your establishment will be up and running in no time.

The first step after deciding where you wish to open your establishment is to obtain a local liquor license. This is accomplished by meeting with an alderman or city counsel person to help you approach the city board. Each municipality has set regulations pertaining to the availability of the number of liquor licenses granted within their venue. Check with your local city and county board to get details on liquor license requirements. The cost of a local liquor license will vary depending on the location within the state of Illinois.

Your next step takes you to the Illinois Liquor Licensing Commission. The fee for an Illinois liquor license is $500 a year. There are business and tax numbers that need to be obtained before applying for your license.

Photocopy of Certificate of Insurance (if alcohol is to be consumed on the premises)

Photocopy of the Current Local Liquor License (from your local liquor commission)

If opening an existing business:

Prior State Liquor License (if applicable)

Bulk Sales Release order-address release (from the Illinois Department of Revenue 321-81-3063)

Proof of Purchase- bill of sale, closing statement or lease.

Original business must close before you apply for your state license.

IMPORTANT- present proof applicant, corporation, LLC, partnership or proprietor has right to

possess the property.

If an existing liquor license is on the premises it must be surrendered.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) contact 800-829-3676 to apply for number.

Illinois Business Tax (IBT or sales tax) number to apply for number.

Check or Money Order made out to the "Illinois Liquor Control Commission" the Liquor commission does not accept U.S. currency/cash as payment.

Application with requested information printed or typed in the spaces provided. This form must bear an original signature.
The first state license will bear the date on the local liquor license hence the license may not represent a full twelve months.

The above information as well as other specific rules and regulations pertaining to holding an Illinois Liquor License can be found at

www.state.il.us/lcc/licensediv .asp.

It is the responsibility of the bar owner to maintain his/her establishment as required by law. Adhering

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