🧾 How Do I Get a Personal Licence?
Your Complete Guide to Applying with Ease
If you want to sell or authorise the sale of alcohol in England or Wales, you’ll need a Personal Licence. This licence is issued by the local council in the area where you live, and it allows you to operate legally in licensed premises.
📍 Personal vs Premises Licence: Know the Difference
Before you start, keep in mind:
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A Personal Licence is always applied for in the local authority where you live.
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A Premises Licence is applied for in the area where the venue is located.
⚠️ It’s common for individuals to deal with two different local councils – one for the personal licence and another for the premises. Don’t assume it’s all handled by one authority.
✅ Who Can Apply for a Personal Licence?
To be eligible, you must:
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Be 18 years or older
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Hold a valid, accredited licensing qualification
(👉 Click here to book your exam)
📄 What Do I Need to Apply?
Here’s a handy checklist of everything required for your application:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| 🧑 Two passport photos | One must be countersigned to confirm it’s a true likeness |
| 📜 Licensing qualification certificate | Must be from an approved course (Book your exam here) |
| 🔎 DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) check | Formerly known as a CRB – must be recent (within 30 days) |
| 📝 Disclosure of convictions & penalties form | You must declare any relevant unspent convictions |
| 🧾 Proof of right to work in the UK | Passport, residence permit, visa, etc. |
| 💷 Application fee | £37 – paid to the local authority |
🚨 Can My Application Be Refused?
Yes, but only in limited cases.
If your DBS check reveals a relevant unspent conviction, the police have 14 days to object. If they do, your local council will arrange a hearing in front of the Licensing Committee, who will make the final decision.
🤝 Let Licensing Solutions Handle It All For You
Applying for a Personal Licence can feel overwhelming — but we do it hundreds of times a month, and we’re here to help.
✔️ Our Personal Licence Application Service Includes:
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✅ Conducting your DBS criminal record check
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✅ Completing all application paperwork
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✅ Preparing and endorsing your photographs
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✅ Filling out the declaration of convictions form
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✅ Submitting your application to the correct licensing authority
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✅ Providing expert support throughout the process
💷 All this for just £125 + VAT
(Includes DBS fee: £21.50 & council fee: £37 – no hidden costs)
📦 This service can be added at checkout when booking your Personal Licence Exam.
🧠 Want a Stress-Free Application?
Let us handle the hard work so you can focus on your future in hospitality. With Licensing Solutions, your application is in expert hands.