How to Get a Liquor License in Oregon

Thinking of serving beer, wine, or spirits at your business in Oregon? You’re in good company. According to a KPTV report, Oregon experienced a 9.9% increase in new businesses last year, the highest growth rate among all U.S. states, adding over 18,000 establishments. This surge signals a thriving environment for entrepreneurs, especially in food and beverage. 

Now, Oregon doesn’t play around when it comes to alcohol sales, and for good reason. Liquor licensing helps ensure that alcohol is sold and consumed safely, fairly, and responsibly. And if you’re hoping to run a business that includes alcohol, like owning a bar, a liquor license is your ticket to serving legally and confidently. 

That might sound overwhelming, but don’t worry. The process is very doable, and we’re breaking it down into clear, manageable steps so you can focus on building your dream business.

Do you need a liquor license to serve alcohol in Oregon?

Yes, you definitely do. If your business involves serving or selling any form of alcoholic beverage, you must get a liquor license from the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC). This requirement applies to both permanent establishments and temporary events.

Some people assume that because Oregon has a strong local brewery and winery scene, the rules might be more relaxed. That’s not the case. Every commercial entity that sells alcohol, whether it’s a full-service restaurant, tasting room, brewery, food cart, or wedding venue, needs approval from the OLCC.

Even nonprofit organizations that want to sell or serve alcohol at fundraising events must apply for a temporary license. If you skip this step and serve without a license, you risk fines, enforcement actions, and possibly being barred from getting licensed in the future. It’s not a corner you want to cut.

Oregon liquor license types

If you’re planning to serve or sell alcohol in Oregon, getting the right liquor license is a must. The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) offers several types of licenses, depending on what kind of alcohol you’re serving, how you plan to serve it, and where. Choosing the right one from the start can make your life a lot easier and keep your business running smoothly from day one.

Here are the most common license types so you can figure out which one fits your setup best.

If you’re running a winery, brewery, or distillery, you’ll likely want to open a tasting room. Oregon lets you serve your own products right where you make them, which is a great way to connect with customers. You might even be able to serve small plates or partner with a food cart to offer snacks without operating a full kitchen. It’s a solid way to add value without piling on overhead.

If you’re thinking about going mobile, or if your business is on wheels, like a food truck or a traveling cocktail bar, a limited on-premises license or a temporary sales license will probably be your best bet. The license you’ll need depends on how often you serve, where you’re setting up shop, and whether customers will be drinking at your location. Some cities have their own quirks, so it’s smart to talk with local officials early.

If you plan to sell bottled or canned drinks to-go, like in a convenience store or grocery setup, an off-premises sales license covers you there. Just keep in mind, this doesn’t let people pop open a drink on-site. It’s strictly for take-home sales.

Some businesses may need more than one license. Let’s say you’re opening a restaurant that also brews your own beer. You’d need a full on-premises license for serving drinks to your diners and a brewery license to legally produce and distribute your beer. OLCC will help you sort it out, but your application should reflect every part of what you’re offering.

And if you’re still not sure, your local government office is usually a good first stop. They’ve walked plenty of business owners through the process and can help you figure out what you need before you send anything off to the state.

What you need to qualify for a liquor license in Oregon

Before you start filling out forms or planning your bar setup, it’s important to make sure you meet the basic requirements to get a liquor license in Oregon. The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) doesn’t approve everyone who applies, so getting these boxes checked early will put you in a strong position.

• You must be at least 21 years old. This is non-negotiable. No matter how great your business plan is, OLCC won’t even consider your application unless you meet the legal age requirement.
• You need legal control over the business location. Whether you’re renting, leasing, or own the space, you’ll have to show proof that you can legally use the property for selling or serving alcohol. It’s also a good idea to check your local zoning rules to confirm that alcohol sales are allowed in that spot.
• You must pass a background check. The OLCC will look at your criminal record, focusing on offenses related to alcohol, drugs, or violence. A clean record helps, but one mistake in your past won’t automatically disqualify you. Be honest on your application and show how you’ve moved forward since.
• You’ll need a detailed floor plan. This should show exactly where alcohol will be stored, served, or displayed. If you have a patio or any outdoor area, include that too. OLCC wants to see how you’ll manage the flow of alcohol and prevent it from being served in unapproved areas.
• You must get approval from your local city or county. Your application needs a green light from local authorities before the OLCC even reviews it. This part can vary depending on where you’re located, and may include extra steps like attending a city council meeting or posting public notices.
• You and your team must complete the Alcohol Server Education Program. If your license includes serving alcohol (which most do), this training is required. You’ll take a short course, pass an exam, and get listed in the OLCC’s Alcohol Server Permit database. It’s a key part of staying compliant and proving you’re serious about responsible alcohol service.

You can complete this training through OLCC-approved providers online, which makes the process flexible and accessible. Some top choices include:

• ORLA Alcohol Server Training – Offers a user-friendly interface and solid course content.
• Oregon Alcohol Training – Free to start, with a certification fee of $30.
• Learn2Serve by 360training – Accredited and mobile-friendly, great for busy schedules.
• Happy Hour Training – Known for affordability and simplicity.

After you complete the course, you’ll be directed to the OLCC’s test portal where you’ll take the final exam. Once you pass, you’ll receive your Alcohol Service Permit and be listed in the state’s permit system. Keep a copy for your records since this will be your official proof that you’re cleared to serve.

If anything seems unclear or you’re not sure what your local rules are, reach out to your city office or the OLCC. They’re used to helping business owners like you get set up the right way.

How to apply for a liquor license in Oregon

The liquor licensing process might feel a bit long, but taking it one step at a time makes it manageable. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Pick the license that fits your business

Start by thinking about what kind of experience you’re offering. Will your customers be sipping drinks onsite, or grabbing bottles to go? Are you offering just beer and wine, or including cocktails and spirits too? The answers will help you choose the license that matches your setup.

• Opening a full-service bar or restaurant? Go for a Full On-Premises Sales License.
• Running a café, brewery, or wine bar with no hard liquor? You’ll want a Limited On-Premises Sales License.
• Selling sealed bottles or cans to-go? That’s the Off-Premises Sales License.
• Hosting a one-time event or fundraiser? Apply for a Temporary Sales License.

2. Pull together all the required documents.

This step can feel like a bit of a scavenger hunt, but having everything ready upfront will save you tons of back-and-forth later. The OLCC wants to see that you’re prepared, organized, and serious about following the rules. So gather everything you need and make sure it’s up to date and clearly labeled. Here’s what you’ll likely need:

• Business name registration: This shows that your business is legally registered with the state of Oregon. It could be your LLC documents, a certificate of assumed business name, or sole proprietorship paperwork.
• Lease agreement or deed: You’ll need to prove you have the legal right to use the property where you plan to serve or sell alcohol. If you’re renting, make sure your lease doesn’t prohibit alcohol sales. If you own the space, a deed or title works.
• Floor plan: This isn’t just a rough sketch. The OLCC expects a clear, scaled layout that shows where you’ll store, serve, and sell alcohol. Include service counters, seating areas, storage rooms, and outdoor spaces if applicable. The more detailed, the better.
• Background check forms: Every person who has a financial interest in the business, including partners, major investors, or LLC members, needs to complete background check paperwork. Be honest and accurate; this isn’t something to rush through.
• Business structure documents: Bring all the official paperwork that outlines your business setup, including articles of organization, operating agreements, or corporate bylaws. This helps OLCC understand who’s in charge and how decisions are made.
• Local add-ons: Your city or county might require additional documentation, like fire safety approvals, signage permits, or neighborhood consent forms. It’s always smart to call your local licensing office and ask if they have extras that aren’t part of the state list.

3. Pay the fees

Every liquor license comes with a cost, and the exact amount depends on the type of license you’re applying for. 

Whether you’re setting up a full-service bar, a wine-focused café, or a retail shop selling to-go drinks, there’s a fee tied to that license. Temporary licenses for one-time events cost less, while annual licenses for permanent businesses will cost more. Make sure to include payment when you submit your application, so the review process doesn’t get delayed. Include payment with your application so things move along smoothly.

4. Submit your application to both your city and OLCC. 

Here’s where a lot of people get tripped up. Before the OLCC reviews your application, your local government needs to sign off. That means submitting your completed application to your city or county for a recommendation. Depending on where you’re located, they may hold public hearings or ask for extra info.

This step helps make sure your business fits with local zoning rules and policies. It’s also a good opportunity to get on the city’s radar and show you’re serious about running a responsible operation.

Once approved or signed off by the city, send everything to the OLCC for final processing.

5. Prepare for a review process. 

Once your application is in, both your local officials and the OLCC will review it. This could involve phone calls, in-person interviews, background checks, or even local meetings. Your neighborhood might receive public notice about your plans, so it’s helpful to stay transparent and cooperative.

6. Get your site ready for inspection. 

The OLCC may want to visit your business before issuing your license. They’ll check that your setup matches your floor plan, verify where alcohol is stored, and confirm that everything is up to code. This will serve as the final walkthrough before the green light.

7. Wait for your license and start pouring

After you’ve checked all the boxes and your application passes review, OLCC will issue your license. That’s your official go-ahead to start legally selling and serving alcohol.

How long does a liquor license last in Oregon?

Once you’re approved, your liquor license is valid for one year from the date of issuance. The OLCC sends out a renewal notice about 45 days before it expires, but doesn’t wait until the last minute. Late renewals can create unnecessary stress or even disrupt your ability to serve.

You’ll need to pay a renewal fee and submit an updated application. If any major business details have changed, like ownership or floor layout, you must report those changes during the renewal process.

Cheers to doing it the right way

Getting a liquor license in Oregon takes some paperwork and patience, but the entire process isn’t complicated. The OLCC provides a lot of resources, and your local officials can also guide you through the process.

Once your doors are open, it helps to simplify the rest of your operations, especially your team management. If you need help organizing shifts, tip tracking, and staff scheduling, check out 7shifts. It’s a simple way to stay organized and focused on growing your business.