How to transfer a premises licence
When a licensed business changes ownership or operator, the existing Premises Licence does not simply transfer automatically to the new owner.
The incoming operator will need to apply to have the Premises Licence formally transferred into their name.
When Is a Premises Licence Transfer Required?
A transfer is commonly required when:
- a pub is sold
- a restaurant changes operator
- a convenience store changes ownership
- a company purchases an existing licensed business
- the operator changes from an individual to a limited company
- one company within a group is replaced by another operating company
The incoming licence holder makes the application. The existing Premises Licence holder will need to provide consent to the transfer.
What Is Actually Being Transferred?
The application changes the identity of the Premises Licence holder. It does not necessarily change:
- the permitted alcohol hours
- licensed activities
- existing licence conditions
- premises layout
- the Designated Premises Supervisor
Those remain governed by the existing Premises Licence unless separate applications are made. Premises licence variations explained
Is a Premises Licence Transfer the Same as Changing the DPS?
No. The easiest way to remember the difference is:
= the licence holder
Changes the Premises Licence holder, for example when a business is sold.
Premises licence transfer service= the DPS
Changes the Designated Premises Supervisor named on the licence. What is a DPS?
How to change the DPSA business takeover may require both applications if the new operator is also appointing a different DPS.
Read: how to change the DPSWhat Documents Are Needed?
The exact requirements depend on the licensing authority, but a transfer involves:
- a Premises Licence transfer application
- details of the existing Premises Licence
- details of the incoming licence holder
- consent from the current licence holder where required
- the relevant application fee
- any declarations or supporting information required by the licensing authority
New to premises licensing? Read What is a premises licence?
Can the Transfer Take Effect Immediately?
In appropriate circumstances, the applicant can request that the transfer takes effect immediately while the formal process is completed. Whether this applies will depend on the application being made correctly and the relevant statutory requirements being met.
What if the Existing Licence Holder Cannot Give Consent?
There are circumstances where a licensing authority may consider a transfer application without the usual consent, but this is not the standard route. The applicant would need to explain why consent cannot be obtained and provide appropriate evidence.
Do I also need to change the DPS? Possibly. If the existing DPS is remaining in place, a separate DPS variation may not be required. If the new operator is appointing somebody else as DPS, a separate change of DPS application will be needed. How to change the DPS
Need Help Transferring a Premises Licence?
Licensing Solutions can manage the Premises Licence transfer process for you, including preparing the application and submitting it to the appropriate licensing authority.
Premises Licence Transfer Application
- Application preparation
- Consent form & guidance
- Submission to local authority
- Licensing authority fee included
Related licensing guides
Premises licence
Already have a premises licence?
Applying for a new licence?
Want us to handle it? Premises licence application service · from £750 + VAT
Rated excellent by 1,730 customers
5.0 / 5687 reviews
5.0 / 51,043 reviews
- BIIAB Recognised CentreDelivering the BIIAB Level 2 Award
- Secure and confidentialYour data is safe with us
- Fast turnaroundQuick processing times
- UK wide serviceHelping businesses everywhere