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If you are going to be the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) on your premises licence, or if you want to authorise alcohol sales, you need a personal licence.

This involves completing an accredited qualification, passing a background check, and applying to your local authority. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Personal licence (alcohol)

Full guide to obtaining your personal licence

Key facts about personal licence costs and requirements

Personal Licence Requirements (England & Wales)

Eligibility criteria and assessment requirements for obtaining a personal licence to supervise alcohol sales under the Licensing Act 2003.

A personal licence is required to be a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) who authorises alcohol sales at licensed premises. Personal licences are issued by local licensing authorities and remain valid indefinitely unless revoked.

Minimum age: 18 years
Qualification required: BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH) or equivalent
Assessment format: 40 question multiple-choice exam
Pass mark: 28 out of 40 correct (70%)
Right to work: Must have right to work in UK
Licence validity: Valid indefinitely (no renewal required)

Eligibility criteria

To apply for a personal licence, must:

Be 18 years or older
Possess an accredited licensing qualification (such as the BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH))
Have the right to work in the UK
Not have certain relevant unspent convictions
Not have had a personal licence forfeited in the previous five years

Apply for a personal licence (opens in a new tab)

Step 2: Get a personal licence

Personal licence (alcohol)