Florida Frequently Asked Questions

What is a quota license and how can I get one?

Quota licenses authorize the sale of beer, wine and liquor. They are limited in the number permitted to be issued by county. For every 7,500 people residing in the county according to the census bureau, one quota license may be issued. However, the county must allow the sale of intoxicating liquor in order for a quota license to be issued within that county.

• A separate license is required for package sales or to permit consumption at a licensed premise.
• The license may not be moved to another county.

You can apply for a Quota License by:

• Option 1 - Buy, Bid or Make an Offer on Liquor License Auctioneer's website.

• The cost to purchase an existing quota license is dictated by the seller of the license.
• • The state does not set the price.
  • The price is typically dictated by supply and demand.

• Option 2 -Enter the Quota License Lottery Drawing and win the right to apply for a quota license (entry forms accepted for 45 days starting the 3rd Monday in August of each year);
  • For a new quota license, there is an annual license fee (PDF), which varies by county, and a one-time Hughes Act fee of $10,750 which is slated for alcohol and drug abuse education, treatment and prevention programs.
• • The state license transfer fee varies, depending on a calculation involving the average annual value of gross sales of alcoholic beverages.
  • • It may not exceed $5000.  
    • The annual license fee (PDF) is applicable for each year thereafter.
    • A transfer penalty applies if the transfer of the license is within 3 years of the original issuance.
    • The transfer penalty is 15 times the annual license fee (PDF).