This is written for F&B business owners who are considering selling alcohol at their venues. Before you pop the cork, there’s one critical step — getting the right alcohol license. Without it, you risk hefty fines, legal trouble and even having your business shut down. But don’t worry, we’ve broken down the process so you can navigate it with ease.
Why Do You Need an Alcohol License? In Singapore, selling alcohol without a license is a big no-no. The government regulates alcohol sales to ensure public safety, responsible consumption, and compliance with zoning laws. A proper license keeps your business above board, protects you from penalties, and gives customers confidence in your establishment.
What Happens If You Don’t Have the Right License? Running a business without the correct alcohol permit can result in:
Fines of up to $20,000
Suspension or closure of your business
Legal action and difficulty in getting future licenses
Not exactly the best start for a new venture!
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Determine the right license type – Are you selling alcohol for on-premise consumption (like a bar or restaurant) or off-premise (like a retail store)? The license type matters.
2. Submit your application – Apply online via the GoBusiness Licensing portal (https://www.gobusiness.gov.sg).
3. Provide the necessary documents – This typically includes business registration details, floor plans, and tenancy agreements.
4. Pay the fees – Costs vary depending on the type of license and business hours. Expect anywhere from $110 to $880 per year.
5. Wait for approval – Processing time ranges from 2 to 6 weeks.
Types of LiquOr License in Singapore
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
We’ve compiled the most common questions we’ve received from business owners in the past 19 years.
What constitutes "Liquor"?
Any beverage containing more than 0.5% ethanol by mass or volume; (b) a mixture of ethanol and some other substance or liquid (including water) and containing more than 0.5% ethanol by mass or volume; or (c) any other substance (whether or not a beverage or liquid) that is prescribed by the regulations as liquor. In short, beer, wine, spirits, sake, cocktails, soju ... are considered as liquor. Where to find the alcohol content? It should be clearly stated on the product’s label.
I would like to sell alcohol after 2359hrs. How?
You can apply for 'Extension' of Liquor License' after you have applied and obtained approval for the Liquor License. In the application, you can specify the timing and day (eg., Friday, till 0400hr).
However, with effect from 1 July 2019, if your premise falls under the URA planning approval for "Restaurant", SPF will not grant extended liquor trading hours. Exception is made if your URA planning approval is a restaurant-hybrid use such as "Restaurant and Bar". If your concept's success hinges heavily on alcoholic beverage sale after 2359hrs, sort out your URA planning approval before you ink any contracts.
I have obtained a Class 2A (supply of beer only) Liquor License 5 months ago and now wish to expand my alcoholic beverage to include wines and spirits. Do I need a new license?
Yes, if you are expanding your alcoholic beverage range, you will need to ‘upgrade’ to a Class 1 license. Only after you have obtained the correct license will you be allowed to sell the other types of alcoholic beverages. Note, the unused component of Class 2A (7 months unutilised) will not be refunded or pro-rated.
How often do I renew my Liquor License?
Annually. About 3 months prior to expiry of the existing license, you will receive an email from SPF on renewal. Note: Your Liquor License must be valid at all times. The penalty is could be a fine up to $20,000 or imprisonment.
I have received the hardcopy SPF Liquor License. What next?
Get it laminated and display the license at a spot where it's visible to consumers.
I am a restaurant with a valid Class 1 (or Class 2) Liquor License and plan to offer food & drinks delivery, including alcohol. Do I need a separate Liquor License?
Yes. Apply for a Class 3 Liquor License
I run a hawker stall. Can I sell other alcoholic beverages aside from beer?
If you are operating a hawker stall - whether in a NEA-run or private-owned premise, SPF will likely approve sale of ‘beer’ only.
I lost my hardcopy Liquor License. How to get a replacement?
You can request for a replacement copy of your existing liquor licence in person at Police Licensing & Regulatory Department.
What are some common pitfalls to avoid?
Applying for the wrong license type
Not renewing on time
Not displaying the Liquor License in the shop
Applying for the Liquor License before you obtain the NEA Food License
Disclaimer:
The information provided is based on our experience and understanding of current regulations. Licensing requirements may change, so we strongly recommend checking the latest details directly on the Singapore Police Force (SPF) website: https://www.police.gov.sg/e-Services/Police-Licences/Liquor-Licence