The Virginia General Assembly approved a new licensing and fee structure for Virginia ABC that consolidates the 152 existing alcohol licenses down to 71, in a set of 12 categories. This new structure will streamline the number and type of licenses administered by the Authority and craft a less complicated licensing structure for our licensees. More information will be forthcoming.
This new structure is the outcome of a multi-year license-reform effort. This effort launched on November 29, 2018, at the request of a subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Rehabilitation and Social Services, following a hearing on November 19, 2018. The goals were to consolidate licenses; explore creation of a marketplace license; analyze fees collected and determine whether to restructure to align with resources necessary to administer, monitor and enforce licenses; and consult with relevant stakeholders in creating a recommendation.
Prior to 2022, Virginia ABC offered 152 different alcohol licenses. The reform reduced the number of different licenses to 71 licenses. These licenses fall under 12 new categories listed below. Some license fees have been adjusted.
Here is a summary of the general changes/modifications in privilege types (not all inclusive).
Beer Only License
The Beer Only License has been eliminated. In its place is a new Beer and Wine License which includes both privileges. A licensee may choose not to exercise either privilege.
On-Premises Only License
The On-Premises Only License has been eliminated. In its place is a new Retail On- and Off-Premises Wine and Beer License. A licensee may choose not to exercise both privileges.
Retail Off-Premises Wine & Beer License
This license applies to convenience grocery stores, delicatessens, drugstores, gift shops, gourmet oyster houses, gourmet shops, grocery stores and marina stores.
Delivery privilege
This privilege is automatically included with the Off-Premises Wine and Beer License and the On- and Off-Premises License. If exercised, the licensee must submit a monthly report of deliveries.
Keg privilege
This privilege is automatically included for the Off-Premises Wine and Beer License and the On- and Off-Premises License. The licensee must now buy keg books.
Marketplace License
This license replaces former licenses for day spas, meal assembly kitchens, clothiers, art instruction studios, canal boat operators, co-working establishments. The new Marketplace License may be issued to other new establishments deemed acceptable to the Board.
Mixed Beverage (MB) Restaurant License
The new MB Restaurant License automatically includes Beer & Wine On- and Off-Privileges. This license applies to:
New seating classifications are now: less than 100, 101 to 150, 151 to 500, 501 to 1000 and over 1000 Seats
Other Mixed Beverage Licenses
All Mixed Beverage Licenses automatically include Beer and Wine. This licenses applies to:
Annual Licenses
These licenses include:
Industry Licenses
These licenses include:
This section of the website is designed to assist licensees in maintaining a safe, regulated business.
ABC grants a range of privileges, or "licenses," to businesses, groups and individuals enabling the manufacture, distribution, selling and serving of alcoholic beverages in the Commonwealth. Holders of these privileges are commonly called “licensees."
Explore our list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). For additional licensing assistance, please contact your regional ABC office or email enforcement@virginiaabc.com.