Applying for a premises licence application can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you are new to licensing laws in England and Wales. Whether you are opening a bar, restaurant, or shop that sells alcohol, you’ll need a premises licence to operate legally. The process may seem complicated, but with the right approach and support, it becomes much easier to manage.
Understanding the Premises Licence
A premises licence allows you to sell alcohol, provide entertainment, or serve late-night refreshments on a specific property. It’s different from a personal licence, which permits an individual to authorise alcohol sales. Most businesses need both to comply with local licensing laws.
When completing your premises license application, you must include details such as:
- The type of activities taking place on your premises
- The opening and closing hours
- The Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) details
- Plans of the premises and layout
Once your application is submitted to your local council, it’s usually open to public consultation for 28 days.
What You Need Before Applying
Before you begin, make sure you have the following in place:
- A qualified personal licence holder (usually your DPS)
- A clear premises plan showing areas where licensable activities will occur
- Proof of the right to occupy the building
- Consent from the proposed DPS
- The correct premsis license application fee (varies depending on rateable value)
In the event that you have not filled in or filled in the correct section of your application, then it can slow down the approval. This is the reason why one should always proofread each section before making a submission.
How We Can Help You
At Inn Confidence Ltd, we make the process of applying for your premises licence straightforward and fast. We provide everything you need, from online personal licence training to expert guidance through your application. You can even take your personal licence exam from home with instant results and unlimited re-sits — all for just £75 + VAT.
What makes us stand out is our simple online process:
- Instant access to your study materials
- Fast-track results within 48 hours
- Free unlimited re-sits if needed
- Exams are available every hour over Zoom
After you have passed your personal licence exam, we can assist you with all the paperwork that is needed when submitting your premsis licence application, so that you do not miss anything.
Common Questions About the Premises Licence Application
How long does it take to get a premises licence?
Most councils take about 4–6 weeks to process your application, depending on whether any objections are raised during the consultation period.
Can I apply for both personal and premises licences at the same time?
Yes, you can. Many applicants choose to complete their personal licence first and then move straight to the premises licence application process.
Do I need professional help?
It’s possible to apply on your own, but having expert advice can save time and prevent costly mistakes.
Get Started Today
When you are ready to apply for the premises license, the first step is to obtain your personal license online. When this is done, we will assist you with the rest so that your business will be registered according to the legal requirements.
