Kentucky Liquor License | Gerald Franklin Agency

Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control

Kentucky Liquor License

Kentucky requires both state and local ABC licenses, and wet, dry, and moist rules vary by area. We confirm what your location allows and manage the state and local filings together.

Kentucky alcohol licensing runs through the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and a matching local ABC office, so most businesses need both a state and a local license. Whether alcohol can be sold at all depends on wet, dry, and moist local option rules. We confirm what your location allows and manage both licenses in parallel. Gerald Franklin Agency has managed alcohol licensing since 1944, and we bring that experience to Kentucky so your filing is done right the first time.

How We Help

What We Handle in Kentucky

  • Confirming which Kentucky license or permit your business actually needs
  • Preparing and filing the application with the Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
  • Assembling the supporting documents, plans, and disclosures required
  • Managing public notice, local approval, and any hearing or objection period
  • Coordinating Federal permits, bonds, and tax registrations where they apply
  • A single point of contact from first filing through final approval

License Types

Kentucky License Types We File

Retail Drink by the Drink

On premises spirits, wine, and beer for restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Retail Package

Off premises sales of spirits, wine, and beer, subject to quota in some areas.

Malt Beverage Licenses

On premises and off premises beer licenses for a range of businesses.

Microbrewery and Producer

Brewery, small farm winery, and distillery licenses for Kentucky producers.

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a liquor license in Kentucky?

Start by confirming the license class your business and location require, then file with the Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control with the right documents and notices. Gerald Franklin Agency manages the whole process for you, from the first filing to final approval.

Do I need a state and a local license in Kentucky?

Usually yes. Kentucky issues both a state ABC license and a local ABC license, and you generally need both to operate. We file them together to save time.

What are wet, dry, and moist areas?

Kentucky local option rules make areas fully wet, fully dry, or moist with limited sales. We confirm your location's status before filing so you know what is allowed.

How long does the Kentucky liquor license process take?

Timelines depend on the license type, local approvals, and any notice or objection period. We give you a realistic schedule for your situation and keep the application moving so it does not stall.

Nationwide Coverage

Licensing in Other States

Gerald Franklin Agency manages alcoholic beverage licensing and permitting as one coordinated program wherever you operate. Explore the states we serve.

Ready to License in Kentucky?

Tell us about your business and location. We will confirm exactly what you need and manage the filing from start to approval.

Start Your Kentucky Application Call (713) 868-0068