How to get a Liquor License in New Mexico?

To obtain a liquor license in New Mexico, you must follow a specific application process that takes approximately 120-150 days. The process involves several steps, including a preliminary review of the application, posting request, notice of preliminary hearing, notice of publication, notice of deficiencies, preliminary hearing, issuance of Hearing Officers Recommendations, review of Recommendations by Director for Preliminary Approval, application forwarded to Local Option District, decision by Local Option District, notice to Applicant of Final Deficiencies, and final Approval by Director. 

1. Review the Application Instructions and Packet

• Purpose: To understand the application process and requirements for obtaining a liquor license in New Mexico.
• Instructions: Read the application instructions and review the application packet before submitting it to the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). Make a copy of the Application Packet for your records, as it will be necessary for your Public Hearing with the Local Option District. The application forms can be found at the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department's website.

2. Submit the Application

• Purpose: To officially start the application process for obtaining a liquor license.
• Instructions: Submit the completed application packet to the ABC. Once your application is received, it is assigned to a Hearing Officer and thoroughly reviewed. If there are any deficiencies in your application, you will receive a Notice of Deficiencies.

3. Obtain Fingerprint Clearance

• Purpose: To verify the identity of all Liquor License Applicants, License Holders, Managers, all Principal Officers, Directors, Shareholders, Partners and Members, and any of the following that own or control 10% or more in the Business /Partnership/Company: Stockholders, Partners, Owners, Members.
• Estimated Cost: $59.00.
• Instructions: Register online at IdentoGO using the ORI number NM920020Z. After registration, schedule an appointment for fingerprinting. The registration applicant information form must be completed with the exact information that is on your form of ID. You have 90 days from the date of registration to get your fingerprints taken. If you fail to do so, you will have to re-register and pay the fees again.

4. Attend the Public Hearing

• Purpose: To present your application and answer any questions from the Local Option District.
• Instructions: Attend the Public Hearing with the Local Option District. The decision by the Local Option District is a crucial part of the application process.

5. Obtain Final Approval

• Purpose: To finalize the application process and obtain the liquor license.
• Instructions: After the decision by the Local Option District, the application is reviewed by the Director for final approval. If there are any final deficiencies in your application, you will receive a Notice of Final Deficiencies.

Useful Information Sources:

• New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department's Alcoholic Beverage Control Division
• New Mexico Business Portal

FAQs:

• How long does the application process take? The application process takes approximately 120-150 days.
• What happens after I submit my application? Once your application is received, it is assigned to a Hearing Officer and thoroughly reviewed. If there are any deficiencies in your application, you will receive a Notice of Deficiencies.
• What is the purpose of the Public Hearing? The Public Hearing is an opportunity for you to present your application and answer any questions from the Local Option District.
• What happens if there are final deficiencies in my application? If there are any final deficiencies in your application, you will receive a Notice of Final Deficiencies. You will need to address these deficiencies to obtain final approval from the Director.

Learn more about local food delivery trends and insights:

• Food Delivery Trends And Restaurant Insights