February 14, 2022

This week ABRA will mail alcohol license renewal packets to eligible on-premises retailers (restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, and multipurpose facilities only); common carriers (trains and boats); and caterers.

The application renewal submission deadline is Thursday, March 31, 2022. Failure to meet the deadline may result in late fees ($50 per day not to exceed the license fee) and license suspension and/or revocation.

Please email ABRA’s Licensing Division at abc@dc.gov if:

• Your mailing address has changed.

• You do not receive your application packet by Friday, February 25.

• You do not intend to renew your alcohol license. Your written request for a license cancellation will be included in an upcoming Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board agenda.

As a reminder, the alcohol license renewal period is the only time licensees may request to amend or terminate their Settlement Agreement without the consent of the other party if the agreement has been in effect for at least four (4) years from the date it was approved by the ABC Board. Requests will only be considered if they are included as part of a complete and timely submitted renewal application and the other requirements set forth in D.C. Official Code § 25-446(d) have been met. Settlement Agreement modification and termination guidance is available on ABRA’s website.

Additionally, all individuals and businesses must have “Clean Hands” (owe no more than $100 to the District Government) to be able to renew their alcohol license. This applies to any penalties owed to ABRA for violations of Mayor’s Orders or ABC rulemaking. Certification of Clean Hands if issued by the District’s Office of Tax and Revenue.

If you have any alcohol license questions, please email abc@dc.gov. Inquiries are responded to Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.