BAR LICENSE
From luxury lounges to rooftop cafes, serving alcohol in India is a regulated privilege, not a casual choice. In India, the sale, service, and storage of alcoholic beverages are tightly regulated by the State Excise Department.
A BAR License is an official permit issued by the State Excise Department that authorizes an establishment to store, serve, and sell alcohol legally within its premises. Without it, selling or even offering alcohol — complimentary or otherwise — is considered illegal under Indian excise laws.
Documents Required:
- Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed
- Trade License / Shop Establishment Certificate
- GST Registration
- Rent Agreement / Ownership proof of premises
- Location plan and site map of the bar area
- NOC from Fire Department
- NOC from local police station
- NOC from Municipal Corporation or local authority
- Food License (FSSAI) if serving food
- NOC from neighbors (in some states)
- Liquor storage layout approval from Excise Department
- Income Tax Returns of the applicant
- Solvency certificate or financial statements
- Affidavit declaring no criminal record
- Applicant’s ID and Address Proof (Aadhaar / PAN / Passport)
FAQs
The process may take anywhere between 30 to 90 days, depending on the state and completeness of documentation.
Most BAR Licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
No. Each bar or restaurant within the premises requires a separate BAR License unless specifically exempted.
Yes, it must be displayed prominently at the establishment to show compliance.
In most states, BAR Licenses are non-transferable, but some allow transfer under special circumstances like ownership change with prior approval.
Yes. You’ll need a foreign liquor (FL) license in addition to your BAR License.
Foreigners can apply through an Indian-registered company or local partnership.