Can a Felon Get a Liquor License? Laws, Restrictions & State-Wise Guide

Can a convicted felon apply for or own a liquor license? That question stirs up confusion for many, especially those trying to rebuild their lives by opening a bar, liquor store, or restaurant.

What the Law Says About Felons and Liquor Licenses?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, as of 2022, over 19 million Americans have at least one felony on their record. That’s nearly 8% of the adult population. With many looking to re-enter society through entrepreneurship, one big question arises:

Can a felon legally get a liquor license in the United States? Short answer? Yes—but it depends. The long answer is tied to which state you’re in, what felony you committed, how long ago it was, and whether you’ve demonstrated rehabilitation. Some states are lenient, others are strict.

What Is a Liquor License, and Why Does It Matter?

A liquor license is a legal permit issued by a government authority—usually at the state or local level—that allows an individual or business to sell, distribute, or serve alcoholic beverages.

There are different types:

• Retail liquor license – for liquor stores
• On-premise license – for restaurants and bars
• Wholesale or distributor license – for suppliers
• Special event license – for temporary events

Obtaining this license means undergoing a background check, financial vetting, zoning review, and compliance with alcohol laws in your jurisdiction.

Can a Felon Apply for a Liquor License?

Yes, But With Conditions

The eligibility of a felon to obtain a liquor license depends on several factors:

Federal Restrictions: Do They Exist?

There’s no federal law that outright bans felons from obtaining a liquor license. However, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) requires applicants for alcohol permits (especially at the wholesale/import level) to disclose criminal history, and they may deny licenses if the offense suggests a lack of integrity or legal compliance.

Common Disqualifying Felonies for Liquor License Applicants

If you’ve been convicted of any of the following offenses, expect tougher scrutiny or denial—unless expunged or pardoned:

• Embezzlement or fraud
• Drug trafficking (especially at a large scale)
• Human trafficking
• Violent crimes (murder, assault, rape)
• Felony-level alcohol violations (like bootlegging)

Can You Get a Liquor License With a Felony If It’s Expunged or Pardoned?

Yes. Expungement or a gubernatorial pardon can significantly improve your chances. In fact, in many states, expunged felonies don’t have to be disclosed on the liquor license application at all.

Examples:

• Texas: If your felony is expunged, it’s like it never happened—legally.
• California: Expunged felonies must still be disclosed, but you may still qualify.

More Opportunities: Can Felons Go on Cruise Ships?

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved?

If you’re a felon trying to get a liquor license, here are 8 ways to boost your odds:

1. Get Legal Help – An attorney familiar with alcohol law and criminal records can guide you through.
2. Request Expungement – If eligible, remove the felony from your record.
3. Collect Character References – Letters from employers, clergy, or community leaders help.
4. Show Financial Stability – Pay off debts, clean up credit, and demonstrate sound finances.
5. Complete Alcohol Education – Take certified alcohol service and compliance classes.
6. Avoid New Offenses – A clean record in the past 5–10 years goes a long way.
7. Start as a Silent Partner – In some states, felons can own part of a business but not apply directly.
8. Appeal If Denied – Most states have an appeal process.

State-by-State Overview: Can Felons Get a Liquor License?

Notes:

• “Yes” = Felons may apply and are eligible, often with conditions.
• “Possible” = Case-by-case review; strong documentation needed.
• “Rarely” = Felony conviction often leads to automatic denial, unless pardoned or expunged.

Can a Felon Own a Bar or Liquor Store But Not Hold the License?

Yes. Some states allow felons to invest or own part of the business, but they can’t be the actual license holder. This is common in:

• Nevada
• North Carolina
• Washington

However, these arrangements must be disclosed, and the licensee must be someone with a clean background.

What Happens If You Lie on the Application?

Never lie about your felony on a liquor license application. Here’s why:

• Instant Denial – Most ABC boards do background checks
• Permanent Ban – Some states will blacklist you
• Criminal Charges – Filing false information can trigger new felony charges

What Should You Do Next If You’re a Felon Wanting a Liquor License?

Here’s a quick action plan:

1. Contact Your State’s Alcohol Beverage Control Board
2. Review Application Requirements
3. Hire a Lawyer (Optional but Recommended)
4. Begin Rehabilitation Documentation
5. Apply and Be Honest
6. Prepare for a Possible Appeal

Final Thought

Absolutely—but it’s not easy. It takes paperwork, patience, and proof that you’ve turned your life around. While some states are more forgiving than others, your best bet is to be honest, get your record expunged if possible, and demonstrate rehabilitation.

A felony doesn’t have to be the end of your entrepreneurial dreams. With the right approach, you can still own that bar, open that liquor store, or run your dream restaurant—legally.

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