Alcohol License (CA ABC On-Sale): California
Serving alcohol in California requires a state ABC license. A Type 41 (beer/wine) can be applied for directly; a Type 47 (spirits) is limited by county quota and often must be purchased from an existing holder.
Overview
Alcohol licensing in California is a state function through the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). A restaurant wanting beer and wine applies directly for a Type 41.
For spirits you need a Type 47. Type 47 licences are issued against a county population quota, so availability differs sharply by county. Where no new licences are available, the practical route is to buy an existing Type 47 on the transfer market, often at a substantial premium. Check current availability for your county with ABC before assuming either route.
After you apply, ABC posts a public notice at your location. Absent a valid protest, and after background clearance, the licence issues. Transfers commonly take around 75 days.
Local approval is separate. Most cities also require their own land-use or conditional-use approval for alcohol service. See your city's local alcohol article.
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Get started free →Last verified against the official source on August 2, 2026. This guide is informational and not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the official agency linked above. Corrections and updates.