How to get a Liquor License in Oregon?

Obtaining a liquor license in the state of Oregon involves a multi-step process managed by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC). The process includes determining the type of license needed, submitting an application with proof of submission to your local government, and undergoing an investigation by the OLCC. For out-of-state businesses, specific permits may be required. Companies that deliver alcohol in Oregon must also obtain a Third-Party Delivery Facilitator permit from the OLCC.

1. Determine the Type of License Needed

• Purpose: To ensure you apply for the correct license that suits your business needs.
• Instructions: Visit the OLCC's “License Types, Fees, and Requirements” page to understand the different types of licenses available, their fees, privileges, and requirements. You can find a description of all License Types, Fees, and Requirements at this link.

2. Submit Application to OLCC

• Purpose: To start the process of obtaining a liquor license.
• Instructions: Submit your application to the OLCC once you receive proof of submission from your local government. The proof of submission must include the date the local government received the application, trade name of the business, premises street address, name of the local government, and that the submission is for a liquor license. You can submit your application to OLCC.LiquorLicenseApplication@Oregon.gov.

3. OLCC Investigation

• Purpose: To ensure your business meets all the requirements for a liquor license.
• Instructions: After the OLCC has accepted your liquor license application, it will be placed in the queue. Then it will be assigned to a License Investigator who will work with you to obtain any other required documents and process your application. Most OLCC investigations take four to eight weeks to complete.

4. Obtain Specific Permits for Out-of-State Businesses

• Purpose: To comply with Oregon's regulations for out-of-state producers and sellers of alcohol.
• Instructions: If you are an out-of-state producer or seller of wine, cider, malt beverages, or distilled spirits, you will need to obtain specific permits such as the Certificate of Approval (CERA), Direct Shipper Permit, and Direct to Retailer Permit. You can find more information and apply for these permits at the following links: Certificate of Approval (CERA), Direct Shipper Permit, Direct to Retailer Permit.

5. Obtain Third-Party Delivery Facilitator Permit (if applicable)

• Purpose: To comply with Oregon's regulations for companies that deliver alcohol.
• Instructions: Companies that deliver alcohol in Oregon are required to obtain a Third-Party Delivery Facilitator permit from the OLCC. They will also need to train their delivery drivers to prevent alcohol delivery to minors and visibly-intoxicated persons.

Useful Information Source Links:

• Overview of the Liquor Licensing Process
• License Types, Fees, and Requirements
• Businesses Outside Oregon
• OLCC Offices By County

FAQs:

• How long does the OLCC investigation process take? Most OLCC investigations take four to eight weeks to complete.
• What happens if my liquor license application is denied or restricted? If your application is denied or restricted, there is a process to contest the decision.
• Do I need a specific permit if I am an out-of-state producer or seller of alcohol? Yes, out-of-state producers and sellers of wine, cider, malt beverages, or distilled spirits need to obtain specific permits such as the Certificate of Approval (CERA), Direct Shipper Permit, and Direct to Retailer Permit.
• What is the new regulation for companies that deliver alcohol in Oregon? Companies that deliver alcohol in Oregon will be required to obtain a Third-Party Delivery Facilitator permit from the OLCC. They will also need to train their delivery drivers to prevent alcohol delivery to minors and visibly intoxicated persons.

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