To get a bartending license in Connecticut, you need to apply for a liquor permit through the Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection. The process involves creating an e-License account, completing an online application, and paying a non-refundable application fee. You will also need to obtain signatures from local authorities, provide a sketch of your premises, and submit various documents. The process takes about 3 to 4 weeks for a provisional permit and about 3 months for a final permit. Although not required, it is beneficial to enroll in an alcohol server training course.
1. Determine the Type of Permit Needed
- Purpose: To identify the appropriate liquor permit for your business.
- Instructions: Review the permit guides and permit overview list on the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) website. You can also use the Permit Identifier Quiz to guide you to the appropriate permit.
2. Create an e-License Account
- Purpose: To start the online application process for a liquor permit.
- Instructions: Visit www.eLicense.ct.gov and click on the “Register” link to create a new account. Choose to register as an “Individual” or “Business”. Complete the required fields under “Account Information”, including User ID, password, and email. Verify the email that was sent to your email account.
3. Complete the Online Application
- Purpose: To apply for your liquor permit.
- Estimated Cost: $100.00.
- Instructions: Apply for your liquor permit by selecting “Initial Application”. Expand the “Liquor Control” Category and select the application you wish to start. Begin filling out the application and navigate to the next question by hitting the “Next” button. You'll be required to upload supporting documentation and forms. After finishing all the questions, review the information and click “Add to Invoice” to pay the non-refundable application fee of $100.00. Enter your payment information and click “Submit Payment”. Allow the Liquor Control Division a minimum of two weeks to begin reviewing your application.
4. Obtain Local Authority Signatures
- Purpose: To get approval from local authorities as part of your application.
- Instructions: You will need to obtain signatures from your local town clerk, zoning officer, fire marshal, and health department as part of your application.
5. Submit Required Documents
- Purpose: To provide necessary information about your business and premises.
- Instructions: You will need to provide a sketch of your premises, photos of the interior and trade name sign, menu, equipment list, staff list, and a personal history form for the permittee and every member of the backer.
6. Enroll in an Alcohol Server Training Course
- Purpose: To gain knowledge needed to supervise the sale and consumption of alcohol in a safe, professional, and practical manner.
- Estimated Cost: $24.99.
- Instructions: Enroll in the Connecticut Alcohol Server Training course offered by TAM here.
FAQs
- What is the cost of the liquor permit application? The non-refundable application fee is $100.00.
- How long does it take to get a provisional permit? It takes about 3 to 4 weeks to get a provisional permit.
- How long does it take to get a final permit? It takes about 3 months to get a final permit.
- Is alcohol server training required in Connecticut? No, it is not required, but it is beneficial for your servers and staff.
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