Overview of Alcohol License
Indulging in liquor selling business for livelihood can be considered one of the most profitable companies for the restaurant and hotel industry.
It immediately increases the profit margin because of the apparent reason, that is, high demand. However, obtaining a liquor license in India involves many legal requirements and intricacies that the dealer has to go through. Further, every state has its framework to maintain a watch on the sale and consumption of liquor.
Every state has its rules and regulations governing alcohol. In legal terms, alcohol License can be defined as legal consent given by the State Excise Department to those who are ready to grow their business borders by distributing alcoholic drinks at a particular place.
The business personnel must stick to the state governing authorities’ rules and guidelines.
The ambit of Liquor License covers
- Businesses engaged in selling alcohol.
- When and where alcohol can be sold
- It also mentions the quantity of the liquor sold.
- The container used to sell liquor.
- Types of alcohol to be served
- Cost of the drink to be served
- To whom alcohol can be sold
- Information related to the manufacture and distribution of alcohol
Need for Liquor License
Obtaining a liquor license means that you have received the legal permission to sell alcohol and alcoholic beverages.
It is essential to get a liquor license before commencing manufacturing and distributing alcohol and alcoholic drink. Submitting in the trading of alcohol without getting an alcohol license is counted as a legal offence.
Types of Liquor License
- Beer and Wine Liquor License
- Restaurant Liquor License
- Tavern Liquor License
- Brewpub Alcohol License for those who create their beer and wine
Documents Required for Obtaining Liquor License
- Identity proof of the applicant
- Address proof of the applicant
- Address proof the premise used
- NOC from the Fire Department
- NOC from Municipal Corporation
- Application with business details
- If an applicant is a company, a list of directors
- If an applicant is a firm, MOA and AOA
- Photograph of the authorized person
- Copy of latest Income Tax return
- An affidavit stating that the applicant has no criminal record
- An affidavit stating that the authorized person is not levnater when it comes to payment of licenses
Guidelines Issued by the Excise Department
State Excise Department issues specific guidelines to maintain the quality of liquor served to the end consumer. Following are the list of policies:
- Purchase alcohol just from the authorized alcohol shops.
- Any person who isn't an Income Tax Payer can't get the alcohol license.
- Any alcohol bought from any military canteen is told distinctly for the military personnel's and not for the general people.
- If the person is making a journey starting with one state then onto the next, he should know the alcohol possession limit of the travelling state.
- Any person under the age of 21 isn't eligible to buy alcohol. This infringement point can vary from state to state.
- Do not buy alcohol unlawfully.
- Try not to serve alcohol in any unapproved premises, as it is an illegal act.
- The license holder must display the cost of individually brand of alcohol served in the alcohol shop.
- Further, the menu rate list showing the cost of alcohol served is required for the disco, club, eateries, etc. In conclusion, no one, regardless of whether male or female under the age of 21, ought to be used without compensation wherever the alcohol is served. This age breaking point can change from state to state.
Also explore various alcohol brands available in India.