How to Get a New York Liquor License

Request Quote

Learn how to get a New York liquor license, and request a quote for the bond you might need from Single Source Insurance today.

Who Needs a New York Liquor License?

If you import, manufacture, distribute, or sell alcohol in New York, you�ll need to be licensed by the New York State Liquor Authority. There are four broad categories of licenses:

  • On-premises sales
  • Off-premises sales
  • Manufacturing
  • Wholesale
  • There are many different types of licenses within these categories, each with their own application requirements. This article addresses the process for obtaining an on-premises license.

What Does the Licensing Process Involve?

To apply for an on-premises license, you will need to complete the following steps:

  • Complete the online application and submit it along with all required documentation.
  • Prove your identity and eligibility for a license (e.g., proof of citizenship, photo ID, fingerprinting authorization, etc.)
  • Prove that the business qualifies as a restaurant, hotel, tavern, catering establishment, or other permitted venue (e.g., photos and diagrams of the premises, lease/deed, menu, etc.)
  • Prove that you have met basic business requirements (e.g., proof of Worker’s Compensation and Disability insurance, certificate of authority, certificate of occupancy, etc.)
  • Obtain a $1,000 New York Liquor Retailer Penal bond

Why is a Surety Bond Required?

The penal bond is your guarantee that as a liquor retailer, you will do business in a completely lawful and ethical manner. It protects the state of New York against a financial loss resulting from your actions and business decisions.

How Does It Work?

A New York Liquor Retailer Penal bond agreement is a legally binding contract between the following entities:

  • The New York State Liquor Authority (the �obligee� requiring the bond)
  • The license applicant (the �principal� purchasing the bond)
  • The surety bond company underwriting and issuing the bond (the �surety�)

If you violate the terms of the surety bond agreement, the state can file a claim against your bond. �The surety will most likely pay the claim on your behalf if you come up with the money. But you must then reimburse the surety, because as the principal, you�re solely responsible for paying claims.

How Surety Bonds Work for Your New York Liquor License

To purchase the penal bond, you will pay an annual premium that is a small percentage of the required bond amount, which the obligee has established at $1,000.� The surety will assign you a premium rate that�s based largely on your credit score.

With a good credit score, your premium rate could be as low as 1% to 3%. But with poor credit, you could pay as much as 10% to 15% of the required $1,000 bond amount.

Get Bonded Today

If you need a New York Liquor Retailer Penal Bond, our surety bond experts will help you get one at a competitive rate.

Request Quote