A U. S. State granted right to sell and/or serve alcoholic beverages. Liquor license requirements vary by jurisdictions. Always check local liquor laws. There are three basic types of licenses: 1) On-Sale: Liquor is sold and must be consumed on the premises (bar or banquet room). 2) Off-Sale: Liquor is sold unopened and must be consumed off the premises (liquor store). 3) Beer and Wine: not authorized to sell spirits. Liquor licenses are based on the physical premises. If you are holding an event at a venue without a liquor license, you must obtain a temporary permit.