Personal Licence Information

Understanding Personal and Premises Licences in the UK

If you're planning to sell alcohol in England or Wales, you’ll likely need both a Personal Licence and a Premises Licence—two distinct legal requirements under the Licensing Act 2003. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what each licence involves, how they differ, and how The Licensing Team can help you obtain them.

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What is a Personal Licence?

A Personal Licence is issued to an individual and authorises them to sell or authorise the sale of alcohol. It is a legal requirement for anyone who wishes to be named as the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) on a Premises Licence.

Key Features:

• Tied to the individual, not a specific premises

• Portable – valid anywhere in England and Wales

• Required to be appointed as a DPS, who holds legal responsibility for alcohol sales

• Issued by the licensing authority in your area of residence

To apply for a Personal Licence, you must:

• Be 18 years or older

• Hold an accredited qualification (e.g., BIIAB Level 2 APLH)

• Pass a criminal record check (DBS)

• Submit your application, supporting documents, and the £37 fee to your local council

📌 The Licensing Team offers a complete Personal Licence application service — from training and qualification to paperwork and submission.

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What is a Premises Licence?

A Premises Licence is a legal authorisation granted to a specific location (such as a pub, restaurant, shop, or event venue) to carry out one or more licensable activities. These include:

• The retail sale of alcohol

• The provision of regulated entertainment (e.g., live music, films, plays, dancing)

• The sale of hot food or drink between 11pm and 5am

Unlike a Personal Licence, a Premises Licence is:

• Tied to the address of the premises

• Issued by the local authority where the venue is located

• Subject to ongoing conditions and annual fees

• Dependent on a named Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) if alcohol is sold

Application Requirements:

To apply for a Premises Licence, you’ll need to submit:

• A completed Premises Licence application form

• An Operating Schedule (detailing opening hours, licensable activities, and management policies)

• A detailed floor plan of the premises

• A DPS consent form (if alcohol is to be sold)

• Proof of your right to work in the UK

• Payment of the relevant application fee (based on the non-domestic rateable value of the premises)

• Public notices posted on the premises and in a local newspaper

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Let The Licensing Team Handle Your Application

Whether you’re an individual applying for your Personal Licence or a business applying for a Premises Licence, The Licensing Team offers fixed-fee, expert services that take the hassle out of the process.

🔧 Our Premises Licence Application Service Includes:

• Expert risk assessment of your proposed activities

• Full preparation and submission of all documents

• Drafting and placement of public notices

• Liaison with responsible authorities (police, environmental health, etc.)

• Negotiation with objectors, if necessary

💷 Fees start from:

• £750+vat for a new Premises Licence

• £500+vat for a full variation
  (Excludes disbursements such as newspaper notices and floor plan costs)

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Key Differences Between Personal & Premises Licences

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📞 Need expert help?
The Licensing Team has years of experience securing both Personal and Premises Licences across the UK. We provide end-to-end support, fixed pricing, and complete peace of mind.

🖊️ Contact us today to get started on your licensing journey.