How to Get a Bartending License in Mississippi

To obtain a bartending license in Mississippi, you need to apply for an Alcoholic Beverage Retailer's Permit through the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) of Mississippi. The ABC manages the issuance of alcoholic beverage licenses for various types of retailers, including bars. The application process involves submitting an application form, meeting statutory qualifications, providing specific information about the applicant and the business premises, and paying the appropriate license fee.

1. Register for an Online TAP Account

• Purpose: To facilitate the application process for an ABC Permit.
• Instructions: Sign up for an online TAP account at TAP. This account will be used to submit your application electronically.

2. Complete the Application Form

• Purpose: To provide the ABC with necessary information to determine your eligibility for a license.
• Instructions: The application form can be found on the ABC's website at Permit Application Forms. The form should be typed or neatly printed in ink. It asks for specific information about the applicant and the business premises. Be thorough in completing the STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP section and the appropriate SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION portion that corresponds to the type of license you are seeking.

3. Submit Fingerprint Cards

• Purpose: To allow the ABC to conduct a background check on the applicant.
• Instructions: Submit two (2) fingerprint cards completed by a law enforcement agency on ABC “Applicant” fingerprint cards.

4. Provide Proof of Lease or Ownership

• Purpose: To verify the suitability of the business premises to offer alcoholic beverages for sale.
• Instructions: Submit a copy of your lease, if leasing the business premises, or your deed, if you own the business premises. The lease should not expire for at least twelve (12) months.

5. Submit a Floor Plan

• Purpose: To detail your proposed areas of customer service, storage, kitchen facilities, restrooms, etc.
• Instructions: Include a floor plan of the business premises with your application. The floor plan must receive approval from ABC prior to the issuance of an ABC license.

6. Pay the License Fee

• Purpose: To cover the cost of processing your application.
• Instructions: The appropriate license fee should be included with your completed application forms. The fees vary depending on the type of license.

7. Submit the Application

• Purpose: To officially apply for an ABC Permit.
• Instructions: Send the completed forms and the appropriate license fee to: Permit Department, P.O. Box 22828, Jackson, Mississippi 39225.

FAQs

• What is the contact number for the ABC? You can call the ABC at 601-923-7700 for any help getting started.
• What is the contact number for permitting? The contact number for permitting is 601-923-7690.
• What is the physical address for law enforcement and permitting? The physical address for law enforcement and permitting is 500 Clinton Center Drive, Clinton, MS 39056.
• What is the mailing address for permitting? The mailing address for permitting is P.O. Box 22828, Jackson, MS 39225-2828.
• What types of permits are available? There are different types of permits available depending on your needs. These include a New Retailers Permit, a Transfer in Ownership for Existing ABC Permits, and temporary permits for non-profit organizations and other specific cases.

Useful Information Source Links

• Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) of Mississippi
• Permit Application Forms
• ABC Permit Application New 2022
• ABC Permit Application Renewal

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