How Much Does it Cost to Get an Alcohol Selling License in California?
California charges an application fee plus a first-year annual fee, both set by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). New-license application fees effective 1 January 2026 range from $125 to $19,840, for example $1,135 for most beer and wine licenses and $19,840 for priority general licenses such as Types 21 and 47.
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Bottle Sizes and Shots Chart (PDF): Every legal US bottle size for spirits and wine: fluid ounces, 1.5 oz shots (= standard drinks), 5 oz glasses and UK units. 50 rows, each with its source.
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We use your email only for this download.New license application fees (from 1 January 2026)
| License group | Application fee |
|---|---|
| Priority general (Types 21, 47, 48, 57, 71, 72, 75, 87, 88; priority drawing winners only) | $19,840 |
| Non-priority general (Types 51-56, 76, 80) | $1,135 |
| Beer and wine licenses (except Types 06, 26, 28, 82, 94) | $1,135 |
| Types 06, 26, 28, 82, 94 | $125 |
Annual fee
The ABC says the annual fee for the first year of a new license is due when you apply. The annual fee is the license fee plus at least one surcharge. For on-sale general licenses it depends on the city’s population, and for some producer licenses on gallons produced. We did not find one annual figure that fits every license, so check the ABC annual fee schedule.
Other costs
- Fingerprinting: $63
- Interim operating permit: $180
- Application fees are generally non-refundable.
Late payment
Annual fees paid late add 50 percent of the license fee within 60 days of the deadline, 100 percent at 60 to 90 days, and the license is revoked after 90 days. Fees rise with inflation each year, so confirm current amounts on the ABC site.
People also ask
How much is a California beer and wine license application?
$1,135 for most beer and wine types under the ABC schedule effective 1 January 2026, plus the first-year annual fee.
Why is a Type 47 so expensive?
Type 47 is a priority general license, available only to priority drawing winners, with a $19,840 application fee.
Are the fees refundable?
The ABC says application fees are generally non-refundable.
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