Can a liquor license be transferred to a new owner?

A liquor license can be transferred to a new owner, but this process typically requires approval from the relevant local authority or state Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agency. This regulatory oversight is crucial because liquor licenses are issued based on strict criteria that aim to ensure public safety, responsible alcohol sales, and compliance with local laws. The authorities will evaluate the new owner’s eligibility based on qualifications, criminal background, and business practices before granting the transfer.

The requirement for approval ensures that the incoming owner maintains the standards expected of licensed establishments, which can include considerations like the business's location, the history of the previous owner, and adherence to community standards. This structured approach protects both the public interest and the integrity of the licensing system.

Other options are less accurate because they either impose too rigid a stance against transferring licenses or suggest that transfer can occur without oversight or under any conditions. In reality, the transfer process is designed to be regulated and conditional to uphold the integrity of alcohol distribution and consumption laws.