Liquor License Cost in India: State-Wise and Event-Based Fees

Acquiring a liquor license is a crucial step for anyone intending to sell alcoholic beverages in India. The liquor industry is heavily regulated, and understanding the various licenses and associated fees is essential to operate legally and successfully.

Additionally, liquor license cost in Delhi is somewhat different than what’s charged in Mumbai or even other NCR regions.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the liquor license cost in different states and cities in India, helping you navigate the complexities of obtaining one for your business needs.

State-Wise Liquor License Costs Breakdown

Here are trade license fees from a few Indian states, reflecting recent or updated data:

State	License for Foreign Liquor Service in IT Parks	Approximate Cost / Fee
Kerala	Club license (FL-4A)	~ ₹35 lakh per annum
	Airport lounge license (FL-7)	~ ₹20 lakh
	License / Type	~ ₹2 lakh
	Beer shop license (Mumbai / big city)	₹10 lakh annually
Maharashtra	Temporary club/party permit	~ ₹1,50,000
	Permit rooms	~ ₹5,44,000
	Various licenses under new policy (2025-26)	₹15,000 (for >100 people), ₹10,000 (<100 people)
Uttar Pradesh	Various licenses under the new policy (2025-26)	Model shop ~ ₹3,30,000, Super model shop ~ ₹5,50,000 Premium model shop ~ ₹8,25,000 Wholesale ~ ₹11,00,000, etc.
Delhi	L-17 / L-18 / L-18F (restaurants/bars)	~₹6.48 lakh for up to 50 seat covers for Indian liquor; foreign liquor part adds extra ~₹64,844. Total ~₹7.13 lakh. For larger / more seats, fees scale up.
Maharashtra	Beer shop license	Approx ₹1,50,000
	Party / temporary club permit	~₹10,000-₹15,000 depending on size/number of people.
	FL-II (retail liquor)	~₹5,00,000-₹10,00,000 in some cases.
	CL-III (Retail sale of country liquor)	Application fee: ₹1,000 if population >2 lakh; ₹500 if below that.
Other States		For many states: beer & wine licenses ~₹30,000-₹50,000; bar/restaurant licenses often ₹5,00,000 or more; retailer/wholesaler higher.

Note: Some states, e.g., Gujarat (especially with prohibition or partial prohibition policies), may have severe restrictions or special permit systems, which make standardization of fees hard.

Types of Liquor Licenses and Their Costs

India offers several types of liquor licenses, each catering to different purposes. Below are the main types of licenses and their respective costs:

1. Temporary Liquor License

A temporary liquor license is required for events or parties where alcohol will be served.

• Fees for Larger Parties (More Than 100 People): ₹15,000
• Fees for Smaller Parties (Below 100 People): ₹10,000
• For Smaller Towns (Population Below 20 Lakh):
  • More Than 100 Members: ₹10,000
  • Fewer Than 100 Members: ₹7,000

This license ensures that organizers comply with legal regulations during events where liquor is served, maintaining order and safety.

2. FL-4 License

The FL-4 license is necessary for hosting private liquor parties in flats, resorts, or similar venues.

Cost Across Cities in the State: ₹13,000

This license permits the host to serve alcohol at private gatherings, ensuring that the event adheres to state laws regarding alcohol distribution.

Also Read: Navigating the Spirits: A Guide to Liquor Licensing for Restaurants

3. Permit Rooms

Permit rooms are establishments like hotels or restaurants where customers can consume alcohol on the premises.

License Fee: ₹5,44,000

Securing this license allows businesses to legally serve alcoholic beverages, enhancing their offerings and attracting a wider customer base.

4. Beer Shops

For those interested in operating a beer shop or retail outlet specializing in beer, a specific license is required.

License Fee: ₹1,50,000

This license authorizes the holder to sell beer for off-premises consumption, catering to customers purchasing alcohol to consume elsewhere.

5. State Liquor License

Each Indian state has its own regulations and fee structures for liquor licenses. The application fees and costs vary according to state laws.

• Application Fees: Ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 or more, depending on the state’s regulations.

It’s essential to consult the local excise department to understand the exact liquor license cost in India, specific to the state where you plan to operate.

Event-Wise Costs for Liquor License in India

In India, individuals and organizations can apply for a temporary or event-based liquor license to serve alcohol at private gatherings, corporate functions, or special occasions. These licenses are issued by the State Excise Department, and the fees vary depending on the type of event, location, and duration.

Below is an overview of the approximate costs and validity of event-wise liquor licenses in India:

1. One-Day Liquor License for Weddings or Private Parties

If you plan to serve alcohol at a wedding, reception, or family celebration, you must apply for a temporary liquor license at least 7–10 days before the event.

• Approximate Cost: ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 (varies by state and venue capacity)
• Validity: 1 day
• Issuing Authority: Local Excise Department or District Collector’s Office

Get more details with the comprehensive blog: Ultimate Guide to One-Day Liquor License in India

2. Liquor License for Corporate Events or Business Gatherings

Companies hosting corporate parties, product launches, or networking events can obtain a short-term liquor permit.

• Approximate Cost: ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 depending on the number of attendees and venue type (hotel, banquet hall, etc.)
• Validity: Typically 1–2 days
• Documents Required: Company PAN, event approval, and venue NOC

3. Liquor License for Festivals or Large Public Events

Organizers of festivals, exhibitions, concerts, or fairs where alcohol is served or sold must apply for a special event liquor license.

• Approximate Cost: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 or more, depending on scale and duration
• Validity: Event duration (usually 1–7 days)
• Conditions: Strict crowd control, security arrangements, and vendor verification

4. Temporary Liquor License for Hotels, Clubs, and Resorts

Hospitality establishments hosting private or seasonal events (like New Year’s Eve parties or destination weddings) may need a temporary extension of their existing bar license.

• Approximate Cost: ₹25,000 – ₹75,000
• Validity: As per event dates
• Authority: State Excise Commissioner’s Office

Additional Considerations For Liquor License Fee

When calculating the total liquor license cost in India, consider the following factors:

1. Licensed Premises

• Requirement: To legally stock and sell liquor, you must have licensed premises that meet all regulatory standards.
• Compliance: The premises should adhere to safety regulations, including fire safety measures, hygiene standards, and zoning laws.

Having a licensed venue not only ensures legal compliance but also builds trust with customers and authorities.

2. Calculating Initial Costs

Starting a business in the liquor industry involves a significant initial investment.

• Estimated Initial Costs: Between ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore

These costs include:

• Application Fees: Charges associated with submitting the liquor license application.
• License Costs: The actual fees for obtaining the necessary liquor licenses.
• Infrastructure Expenses: Costs related to setting up the premises, such as renovations, furnishings, and security systems.
• Inventory Purchase: Initial stock of alcoholic beverages.
• Operational Costs: Expenses for staffing, utilities, marketing, and other day-to-day operations.
• Legal and Consultancy Fees: Professional fees for legal assistance and guidance through the licensing process.

Thorough financial planning is essential to ensure you can meet these expenses and sustain your business.

Understanding the liquor license cost in India is vital for anyone looking to enter the alcohol retail or service industry. The costs vary depending on the type of license required and the state regulations. By familiarizing yourself with the different licenses—temporary licenses for events, FL-4 licenses for private parties, permits for establishments, or specific state liquor licenses—you can make informed decisions and plan your investment accordingly.

Ensuring compliance with all legal requirements not only avoids potential penalties but also establishes your credibility in the market. With careful planning and adherence to regulations, you can successfully navigate the complexities of the liquor industry in India.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What types of liquor licenses exist in India, and how do their costs vary?

India offers multiple license types—temporary event permits, FL-4 (private parties), permit rooms, beer shop licenses, and state liquor trade licenses. Costs differ by state, city, and license class, often ranging from ₹10,000 to several lakhs annually. In short, a liquor license in UP might be charged differently from the fee in West Bengal.

Q: Why do liquor license costs differ between states?

License fees depend on state excise policies, demand, regulatory structure, and local laws. Some states impose stricter controls or prohibition measures, making license procurement costlier or more restricted in those jurisdictions.

Q: Are there additional charges beyond the license fee?

Yes — besides the base license cost, you must factor in application fees, infrastructure upgrades (security, storage, fire safety), legal/consultancy fees, and any compliance or renewal costs imposed by the excise department.

Q: Can I get a temporary liquor license just for one event?

Absolutely — temporary liquor permits are meant for events or parties. For smaller gatherings (<100 people), fees may start around ₹10,000, while larger ones or special zones may attract ₹15,000 or more, depending on state rules.

Q: How do I determine the liquor license cost for my specific location?

Check with your state’s excise department for current fee schedules. Use parameters like your city class, license type, and business model. Consulting a local compliance expert or agency can also help you estimate precise costs.