Personal licence course & online APLH exam
Get the qualification you need for a Personal Licence in England and Wales. Study the BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH) online, then sit your remotely invigilated exam at a time that suits you.


What Is the APLH Qualification?
The BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH) is the licensing qualification commonly taken by people who want to apply for a Personal Licence in England and Wales.
It makes sure licence holders understand their responsibilities when selling or authorising the sale of alcohol.
New to licensing? Read What is a personal licence? or see the qualification details.
Who Is the Course For?
Anyone who needs a Personal Licence in England and Wales, including:
- Aspiring Designated Premises Supervisors
- Pub, bar, restaurant, hotel and shop managers
- Business owners selling alcohol
- Staff progressing into management roles
You must be 18 or over to apply for a Personal Licence.
What Does the Course Cover?
The APLH covers the following topics.
- The roles, responsibilities and functions of licensing authorities within the framework of the licensing objectives
- The application process for a personal licence
- The role and legal responsibilities of the personal licence holder, and the penalties relating to failure to comply with the law
- The premises licence
- The content and purpose of operating schedules
- The role and duties of the designated premises supervisor
- Unauthorised and temporary licensable activities
- Rights of entry to licensed premises
- Police powers with regard to suspension and closure of licensed premises
- The specific prohibitions for the sale of alcohol
- The strengths of alcoholic drinks, and the effects of alcohol on the human body
- The protection of children from harm
- The responsible retail sale of alcohol
What Is the Personal Licence Exam Like?
40 multiple-choice questions
Every question has one correct answer.
60 minutes
Plenty of time to read each question carefully.
28 out of 40 (70%)
You need 28 correct answers to pass.
Remotely invigilated online
A live 1-to-1 invigilator over Zoom.
Provided after the examination
You find out as soon as you finish.
Can I Take the Personal Licence Exam Online?
Yes. Our exams are remotely invigilated through our partner Prctr.com. A live invigilator greets you over Zoom, checks your ID and stays with you throughout the exam.
Exam slots are available every hour, seven days a week from 6am to 10pm, including evenings and weekends.
How online invigilation works: What is Prctr.com?
How Do I Prepare for the Exam?
- Work through the online APLH course
- Practise with 100+ questions in the e-learning
- Read the APLH handbook included with your booking
- Test yourself with our free mock exam
Try it now: Personal licence mock exam
What Happens After I Pass?
You receive your electronic qualification certificate. You then apply for your Personal Licence to the licensing authority for the area where you normally live, with a basic DBS certificate, photographs, proof of right to work and the £37 fee.
- Read the full process: How do I get a personal licence?
- Check the total cost: How much does a personal licence cost?
- Prefer us to do it? Personal licence application service
What Is Included With the Course and Exam?
- Full online APLH course
- APLH handbook and mock exam
- 100+ practice questions
- Remotely invigilated online exam
- Result straight after your exam
- Unlimited exam attempts
- Electronic certificate (PDF)
Personal Licence Course FAQs
Do I need the APLH to get a personal licence?
All applicants in England and Wales need an accredited licensing qualification such as the APLH before applying for a Personal Licence.
Can I take the personal licence exam from home?
Yes. Our exams are remotely invigilated online, so you can sit yours from home or work with a suitable computer and valid ID.
How long does the course take?
The course is online and self-paced, so you can study in your own time and book your exam when you are ready.
What happens if I do not pass?
You can retake the exam at no extra cost. See our terms of service for full details.
Is the APLH valid in Scotland?
No. Scotland operates a separate licensing system. If you are applying in Scotland you need the SCPLH qualification instead: BIIAB SCPLH online exam.
How much does it cost to get a personal licence overall?
As well as the course and exam, there is also a basic DBS check and a £37 licensing authority fee. See our full cost guide.
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