How to get a Liquor License in Arkansas?

Feb 7, 2024 | 3 min read

To obtain a liquor license in the state of Arkansas, you need to apply through the Department of Finance and Administration's Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) office. The process involves filling out specific application forms depending on the type of permit you need, such as Non-Resident Beer, Suppliers, or Wine Shipping. For businesses in Little Rock, additional permits from the City of Little Rock are required.

1. Non-Resident Beer Permit

  • Purpose: This permit allows non-resident beer sellers to distribute beer and malt liquor to Arkansas wholesalers.
  • Estimated Cost: The annual permit fee is determined by the number of “barrels” of beer and malt liquor you shipped to Arkansas wholesalers during the previous calendar year. Less than 200 barrels costs $350.00, from 200 to 1000 barrels costs $1,000.00, and more than 1000 barrels costs $2,000.00.
  • Instructions: Fill out the Non-Resident Beer Application Form and return it, along with the fee, to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division at 101 East Capitol, Suite 401, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201.

2. Wine Shipping Permit

  • Purpose: This permit allows businesses to ship wine to Arkansas.
  • Instructions: Fill out the Wine Shipping Application Form and return it, along with the required fee, to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division at 101 East Capitol, Suite 401, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72201-3953.

3. Supplier's Permit

  • Purpose: This permit allows businesses to supply spirituous or vinous liquor in Arkansas.
  • Instructions: Fill out the Supplier's Permit Application Form and return it, along with the required fee, to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division at 101 East Capitol, Suite 401, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72201-3953.

4. City of Little Rock Permit

  • Purpose: This permit is required for businesses in Little Rock to sell alcohol.
  • Instructions: Contact the City of Little Rock directly at 501-371-4570 to obtain a City of Little Rock Permit.

Useful Information Source Links:

FAQs:

  • What is a “barrel” under Arkansas tax law? A “barrel” under Arkansas tax law is equal to 32 gallons.
  • What happens if I don't pay the permit fee for the Non-Resident Beer Permit? Your company will not be able to sell or distribute beer or malt liquor products to any Arkansas wholesale dealer or distributor until the fee has been paid.
  • Do I need a separate permit to ship wine to Arkansas? Yes, you need to apply for a Wine Shipping Permit through the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division.
  • Do I need a separate permit to supply spirituous or vinous liquor in Arkansas? Yes, you need to apply for a Supplier's Permit through the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division.
  • Do I need a separate permit to sell alcohol in Little Rock, Arkansas? Yes, you must secure permits from both the State of Arkansas Alcoholic Beverage Control and the City of Little Rock.

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