One of the more challenging aspects of opening a restaurant or bar is obtaining a liquor license. Without the proper approval from the state, your business could suffer from the loss of potential income expected from liquor sales. Therefore, it is important that you follow all the rules when you are applying. To help you avoid delays in obtaining a liquor license, here are some mistakes to avoid.  

Applying for the Appropriate License 

A liquor license is not general approval to serve alcohol in any setting during any period of the day. In reality, there are several types of licenses available and all of them have various restrictions on them that dictates how and when your establishment can serve alcohol.  

For instance, in some states, a restaurant that plans to serve alcohol to diners at their tables could be in trouble if their license restricts their service to the bar only. There is also the possibility that the sale of alcohol could be limited to only certain times of the day.  

To avoid this, take the time to carefully research the licenses available in your state. Rely on your needs to help you narrow down your choices so that you do not waste time applying for the wrong one.  Click here for info about obtaining a liquor license in Arizona.

Failing to Meet the Requirements 

In order to qualify for a liquor license, you have to meet strict requirements that are set by the state. If the requirements are not met, you could be denied. The denial could result in a delay that lasts months.  

Before submitting an application, read the requirements to ensure you meet them. If you do not, now is the time to get in compliance before you apply. For instance, if you are applying for a private club permit and the state requires that you provide regular food services to your guests, you need to start doing so. If you cannot meet this requirement, consider applying for a different type of license.  

A state representative will inspect your business to guarantee that it does meet the requirements, so do not exaggerate on your application. Depending on your state, the inspections could be limited to scheduled times. However, a surprise inspection is also possible.  

To guarantee that you are making all the right moves in applying for a liquor license, consider working with an experienced attorney or a consulting firm that has experience in applying for licenses in your state.