How to get a Liquor License in Montana?

Feb 7, 2024 | 4 min read

Obtaining a liquor license in the state of Montana involves a competitive bidding process administered by the Montana Department of Revenue's Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. The process includes understanding the different types of alcoholic beverage licenses available, participating in the competitive bidding process, and making changes to an existing license if necessary.

1. Understand the Types of Alcoholic Beverage Licenses

  • Purpose: Different types of licenses are available depending on the nature of your business. Understanding these types will help you choose the most suitable one for your needs.
  • Instructions: Detailed descriptions of these licenses can be found on the Montana Department of Revenue's website. The types include City All-Beverage, County All-Beverage, Brewery, Distillery, Winery, and many more. Each type of license has its own specific requirements and processes.

2. Participate in the Competitive Bidding Process

  • Purpose: This process allows individuals and businesses to bid on the opportunity to apply for an available license. The highest bidder who meets all requirements is allowed to apply for the license.
  • Estimated Cost: The minimum bid is set at 75% of the market value of the license compared to licenses with the same type and privileges sold in the quota area or a similar area. The prices for the licenses vary, ranging from $35,000.00 to $799,000.00 based on the listings available as of January 26, 2024.
  • Instructions: To participate in the Competitive Bidding Process, you need to register for an Okta account. Once registered, you can access the DOR Online Services Portal to begin your submission. More details can be found in the Competitive Bidding Terms and Conditions.

3. Make Changes to an Existing License

  • Purpose: If you are the owner of an alcoholic beverage license or an authorized representative of the licensee, you may need to make changes to your existing license.
  • Instructions: To make changes to an existing license, you need to fill out a form on the Montana Department of Revenue's website. The form requires your contact name, phone number, email, and the license number. You also need to specify whether you're creating a new posting or modifying an existing one.

Useful Information Source Links:

FAQs:

  • What is the competitive bidding process for obtaining a liquor license in Montana? The competitive bidding process allows individuals and businesses to bid on the opportunity to apply for an available license. The highest bidder who meets all requirements is allowed to apply for the license.
  • What types of alcoholic beverage licenses are available in Montana? The types of licenses include City All-Beverage, County All-Beverage, Brewery, Distillery, Winery, and more. Each type of license has its own specific requirements and processes.
  • How can I make changes to an existing liquor license in Montana? To make changes to an existing license, you need to fill out a form on the Montana Department of Revenue's website. The form requires your contact name, phone number, email, and the license number. You also need to specify whether you're creating a new posting or modifying an existing one.
  • What is the cost of a liquor license in Montana? The minimum bid is set at 75% of the market value of the license compared to licenses with the same type and privileges sold in the quota area or a similar area. The prices for the licenses vary, ranging from $35,000.00 to $799,000.00 based on the listings available as of January 26, 2024.

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