How to Get a Bartending License in Colorado

To obtain a bartending license in the state of Colorado, you must go through a dual-licensing process, which requires approval from both local and state governments. The process involves obtaining a Liquor Retail License or a Retail Establishment Permit through the Liquor Enforcement Division. The process may vary slightly depending on the specific location within Colorado, but generally involves demonstrating the neighborhood's needs and desires for each new liquor license, undergoing a background investigation, and paying the necessary fees.

1. Obtain Local Approval

• Purpose: The first step in obtaining a bartending license in Colorado is to secure local approval. This is necessary because Colorado operates on a dual licensing authority, which means you must first obtain license approval at the local government level.
• Instructions: This typically involves demonstrating the neighborhood's needs and desires for each new liquor license. The local government will usually conduct an initial background investigation of the individuals involved with a retail liquor license application. However, an exception exists for chain stores or entities with multiple liquor licenses throughout the state. In such cases, to avoid repetitive background investigations in multiple jurisdictions, the Division conducts the individual's background investigation.

2. Apply for a State License

• Purpose: Once you have local approval, you can apply for a state license. This is the final step in the licensing process and allows you to legally serve alcohol in the state of Colorado.
• Instructions: You can apply for a state license through the Colorado Department of Revenue Specialized Business Group's website. The website provides detailed instructions on how to apply for a license or permit, as well as information on the fees associated with liquor licensing.

3. Renew Your License

• Purpose: To continue serving alcohol legally, you must renew your liquor license before it expires.
• Instructions: The State of Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division is responsible for mailing liquor license renewal forms approximately 90 days before the license expires. To renew your license, you must submit the renewal form and the State and County fees to the Mesa County Clerk and Recorder at least 45 days prior to the expiration date of the liquor license.

FAQs

1. Do I need to be a United States citizen or a Colorado resident to acquire a liquor license? No, you do not have to be a United States citizen or a Colorado resident to acquire a liquor license.
2. Does having a criminal record prevent me from getting a liquor license? Not necessarily. The existence of a criminal record does not preclude a person from licensure. However, applicants with criminal records must be able to provide evidence of rehabilitation or they may be denied a license.
3. How long does the liquor license process take? The liquor license process generally takes three to four months or longer to complete.
4. What is the process for renewing my liquor license? The State of Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division will mail you a renewal form approximately 90 days before your license expires. You must submit the renewal form and the State and County fees to the Mesa County Clerk and Recorder at least 45 days prior to the expiration date of the liquor license.

Useful Information Source Links

• Colorado Department of Revenue Specialized Business Group
• City of Boulder Customer Self-Service Portal
• City of Colorado Springs Liquor and Beer Licensing

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