How to get a Liquor License in Minnesota?

To obtain a liquor license in the state of Minnesota, you need to complete a series of steps that involve filling out application forms, obtaining necessary insurance certificates, applying for tax IDs, and paying certain fees. The process may vary depending on whether you're a distributor or a retailer, and whether your establishment is new or has been previously licensed.

1. Complete Application Forms

• Purpose: The application forms are necessary to apply for the specific type of liquor license you need.
• Instructions: Complete and sign the application form(s) for each license you're applying for. The application must also be signed by the sheriff or local police, and county-issued licenses need a county attorney's signature. Fill out the license form that matches the type of application you've filled out. For instance, a completed wine license form needs to accompany a wine application.

2. Obtain Necessary Insurance Certificates

• Purpose: These certificates are required to ensure that you have adequate coverage for your business’s operations.
• Instructions: Provide a liquor liability insurance certificate that covers your license period completely. If you have employees, provide a Workers Compensation insurance certificate. If you don't have employees, provide a statement to that effect.

3. Apply for Tax IDs

• Purpose: These IDs are necessary for tax purposes and must be included in your liquor license application.
• Instructions: Apply for a Sales and Use Tax ID number by calling the Minnesota Department of Revenue at 651-296-6181. Write the sales tax number on your liquor license application. Apply for a Federal Occupational Tax Stamp by calling TTB at 1-800-937-8864.

4. Pay Required Fees

• Purpose: These fees are necessary for processing your application and issuing your license.
• Estimated Cost: $20.00.
• Instructions: Pay a $20 fee for a buyer's card. This card will be issued once all licensing paperwork has been received and all requirements are met.

5. Inspection (if applicable)

• Purpose: If your establishment is new and has never been licensed for the type of license you're applying for, it will need to be inspected by a field inspector.
• Instructions: After completing the above steps, return the forms to the city or county for approval. If approved, they will be sent to the state of Minnesota for final approval.

Useful Information Sources:

• Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division
• Alcohol Enforcement Unit
• Liquor Rules 7515
• Chapter 340A Liquor Laws
• Liquor License Database

FAQs:

• What if I don't have employees? If you don't have employees, you need to provide a statement to that effect when applying for your liquor license.
• What happens after I complete all the steps and submit my application? After completing these steps, return the forms to your city or county for approval. If approved, they will be sent to the state of Minnesota for final approval.
• What if my establishment is new? If your establishment is new and has never been licensed for the type of license you're applying for, it will need to be inspected by a field inspector.

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