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Compliance / Broker licensing

Broker licensing, state by state

Whether an independent commission broker — someone who solicits orders for a producer and takes no title to the product — needs a personal state licence to sell spirits to the trade. Each answer rests on the statute or rule named under it, read in full rather than summarised.

This covers spirits, and the seat of an independent agent rather than an employed salesperson. Beer and wine often answer differently in the same state. It is research, not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for asking the state — several of the pages below say which regulator to ask.

Not open to an independent broker

2 states

These states license the seat only for an employee of the producer or distributor whose products are being sold. There is no licence here for a commission broker to apply for.

IndianaSalesman's Permit

Indiana licenses this seat only for an employee, not for an independent commission broker — so there is nothing here for you to apply for.

Indiana issues the salesman's permit only to a bona fide employee of an Alcohol and Tobacco Commission wholesale, primary source, distiller, rectifier, vintner or brewery permit holder, so an independent commission broker cannot hold one — and the duty is written broadly enough to catch you anyway: "no person shall act as the agent or salesman for the sale of or taking or soliciting of orders for" alcoholic beverages without the permit. A producer's salesman also may not solicit retail-level sales at all. ⚠️ Two sentences in the same subsection do sit awkwardly with a flat employee-only reading, and they are worth putting to the Commission rather than taking our word for it: "If such salesman is acting for himself as principal, the application and the permit shall so state", and "Additional permits may be granted the same salesman for additional principals, and a salesman may hold more than one (1) salesman's permit at any one (1) time" — language that contemplates an agent with several suppliers rather than one employer. The eligibility clause is the operative one and it is explicit, which is why this state is recorded as closed; but if Indiana matters to you, ask the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission whether that residual language still admits a contracted representative.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission
Cost: $5 a year for each permit
Term: One year
Also needs: You must be a bona fide employee of an Indiana-permitted wholesaler or producer; A separate permit is carried for each employer represented; Good moral character

Rests on 905 IAC 1-8-1(a). Penalty: 905 IAC 1-8-1(d); IC 7.1-5-6-2.

West VirginiaWholesale Representative's License

West Virginia licenses this seat only for an employee, not for an independent commission broker — so there is nothing here for you to apply for.

West Virginia licenses only salaried employees of the distillery, manufacturer, producer or processor, and bars outright anyone who sells on a fee or commission basis. A licensed representative also may not split their salary with anyone outside their immediate family, so there is no route in for an outside broker.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration
Cost: $100 a year, or $50 for a part-year licence taken out between 1 January and 30 June
Term: Annual, 1 July to 30 June
Also needs: A separate licence for each producer, manufacturer or distributor you represent; Open to salaried employees of the principal only — not to anyone paid a fee or commission; Disclose prior sales totals, gross income on them, any gift to a commission member or employee or to a political committee, and any relationship by blood or marriage to a commission member or a state, county or municipal official; Applications and the list of licensees are public records

Rests on W. Va. Code § 60-4-22(a). Penalty: W. Va. Code § 60-4-22(e).

Residents and in-state businesses only

5 states

A licence exists and is required, but only a resident — or a business that qualifies there — is eligible to hold it. What counts as qualifying differs by state; each card says.

MassachusettsAgent, Broker or Solicitor License (c. 138, § 18A)

Massachusetts requires an Agent, Broker or Solicitor License (c. 138, § 18A) before you can solicit orders from licensed wholesalers. Only a Massachusetts resident, or a business that qualifies there, can hold it.

Massachusetts issues the § 18A agent, broker or solicitor licence to an individual only if they are both a citizen and a resident of the Commonwealth — but an out-of-state corporation admitted to do business in Massachusetts, or a Massachusetts LLC or LLP, can hold it instead. Calling on retail accounts additionally needs a § 19A salesman permit, which is employment-tied and open only to Massachusetts citizens.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission
Cost: $5,000 a year for the first principal, $500 for each additional principal, capped at $6,500. A § 19A salesman permit is a further $200 each.
Term: Annual
Also needs: An individual applicant must be both a citizen and a resident of the Commonwealth; alternatively an in-state entity, or an out-of-state corporation admitted to do business in Massachusetts, may hold it; One principal per licence, with additional principals added at the Commission’s discretion; The licensee may not buy or sell alcoholic beverages for their own account; A § 19A salesman permit is needed for each person who actually calls on trade customers

Rests on M.G.L. c. 138, § 18A. Penalty: M.G.L. c. 138, § 2.

MontanaRegistered Liquor Vendor Representative

Montana requires a Registered Liquor Vendor Representative (MCA § 16-3-103(1)(a), with § 16-3-107) before you can present and promote products to the state. Only a Montana resident, or a business that qualifies there, can hold it.

Montana requires a vendor representative to be a Montana resident, or to become one after engagement, and to be at least 21. Where representatives are engaged through an independent contractor a vendor is limited to five of them; the unlimited allowance applies only to a distillery’s own employees, owners and officers.

Where: Montana Department of Revenue, Alcoholic Beverage Control Division
Form: Applied for electronically through the TransAction Portal (TAP)
Cost: $50 per applicant, annually
Term: Renew on or before 1 September each year
Also needs: Montana residency and age 21 or over; No ownership interest in any Montana alcoholic beverage retail licence or agency liquor store; Current under the Responsible Alcohol Sales and Service Act before serving alcohol
Agency page →

Rests on MCA § 16-3-103(1)(a), with § 16-3-107. Penalty: MCA § 16-6-314.

New HampshireLiquor and Wine Representative License

New Hampshire requires a Liquor and Wine Representative License (RSA 178:10, I) before you can solicit orders there. Only a New Hampshire resident, or a business that qualifies there, can hold it.

New Hampshire issues this licence only to someone a liquor and wine VENDOR has designated as its authorised New Hampshire representative, and a vendor may designate only one representative per brand — so a brand that already has a representative here cannot be added to your book. You must also have been a New Hampshire resident, or have a director, officer or partner who has been one for at least three years. ⚠️ Confirm one thing with the Liquor Commission before you count on New Hampshire: the definition at RSA 175:1, XLIV says a representative “shall be employed by the holder of a vendor’s license”, while the licensing section says only that a vendor must “designate” you. If the Commission reads that strictly, this seat is open only to a vendor’s employee and not to an independent contractor. We have not assumed either reading. New Hampshire is also a control state: the Liquor Commission is the wholesaler.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: New Hampshire Liquor Commission
Also needs: A liquor and wine vendor licensee must designate you as its authorised New Hampshire representative; Ask the Commission whether an independent contractor qualifies — RSA 175:1, XLIV says a representative “shall be employed by” the vendor; New Hampshire residency, or a director, officer or partner resident for at least 3 years; You may hold no other New Hampshire licence except a liquor and wine vendor licence; Your own sales staff need no licence, but must carry a copy of yours and your letter of authorisation

Rests on RSA 178:10, I. Penalty: RSA 179:58, I.

South CarolinaProducer Representative Biennial Certificate of Registration

South Carolina requires a Producer Representative Biennial Certificate of Registration (S.C. Code § 61-6-2870) before you can solicit orders there. Only a South Carolina resident, or a business that qualifies there, can hold it.

South Carolina defines a producer representative as a citizen of the State who maintains their principal place of abode in the State, so an out-of-state broker cannot register at all. You also may not hold any direct or indirect interest in a South Carolina wholesale or retail liquor business.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: South Carolina Department of Revenue
Cost: $50 on application
Term: Biennial
Also needs: Citizenship of South Carolina and principal place of abode in the State; No direct or indirect interest in a South Carolina wholesale or retail liquor business

Rests on S.C. Code § 61-6-2870. Penalty: S.C. Code § 61-6-2950 (revocation); § 61-6-2930 with § 61-6-4310 (contraband and seizure).

UtahLocal Industry Representative License

Utah requires a Local Industry Representative License (Utah Code § 32B-11-603(1)(a)) before you can solicit orders there. Only a Utah resident, or a business that qualifies there, can hold it.

Utah issues the local industry representative licence only to a Utah resident, partnership, corporation or LLC — but a Utah entity can hold it and its individual staff then need no separate licence. Commission compensation is expressly allowed, so the obstacle is the Utah nexus rather than how you are paid.

Where: Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services
Cost: $75 non-refundable application fee plus a $125 initial licence fee; $125 to renew
Term: Expires 31 December; renewal due by 30 November, and failure to renew is an automatic forfeiture
Also needs: Residence in Utah, or a Utah partnership, corporation or LLC; An affidavit naming every manufacturer, supplier or importer you will represent, repeated at renewal; Consent to inspection of your business premises during normal business hours; Not a retail licensee that sells liquor, its staff, or a holder of an interest in one

Rests on Utah Code § 32B-11-603(1)(a). Penalty: Utah Code § 32B-11-603(1)(b).

Licence required

26 states

You need a personal licence, permit or registration before you solicit. Start these early — several take weeks.

AlabamaIndustry Representative registration and ABC Board identification card

Alabama requires an Industry Representative registration and ABC Board identification card (Ala. Admin. Code r. 20-X-8-.06(2)-(3)) before you can present and promote products to the state.

Alabama registers you rather than licensing you: the manufacturer or importer files an affidavit naming you, your address and how you are paid, and the Board issues an identification card you must carry at all times in the state. ⚠️ A registered industry representative may not take a spirits order from a retailer or a wholesaler — the seat is educating and promoting only.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board
Cost: $15 a year per representative, paid by the manufacturer or importer, due 1 October
Term: Annual, from 1 October
Also needs: The manufacturer or importer files the affidavit, stating your name, address and method of compensation; You must be an authorised delegate of a manufacturer or importer licensee and of good moral character; Carry the ABC Board identification card at all times while in Alabama

Rests on Ala. Admin. Code r. 20-X-8-.06(2)-(3). Penalty: Code of Ala. 1975, §§ 28-3-49 and 28-3A-25(a)(16) (the rule's own stated statutory authority).

Washington, D.C.Solicitor's License

Washington, D.C. requires a Solicitor's License (D.C. Code § 25-116, with § 25-102(a)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

A District solicitor licence is issued for one vendor only, so you need a separate licence for every wholesaler or manufacturer you represent. It does let you carry samples to and from licensed establishments.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: District of Columbia Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA, formerly ABRA)
Also needs: One licence per vendor represented; The vendor you represent is named on the licence

Rests on D.C. Code § 25-116, with § 25-102(a). Penalty: D.C. Code § 25-781.

DelawareSales Representative License

Delaware requires a Sales Representative License (4 Del. C. § 501(b)(1)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

The Delaware licence lets you solicit orders from businesses licensed to sell alcoholic liquors, but only on behalf of a Delaware-licensed importer or manufacturer — not directly for an out-of-state supplier.

Where: Delaware Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement, Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner
Cost: $50 biennially
Term: Biennial
Also needs: You must be representing a Delaware-licensed importer or manufacturer

Rests on 4 Del. C. § 501(b)(1). Penalty: 4 Del. C. § 910.

GeorgiaRepresentative Permit

Georgia requires a Representative Permit (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 560-2-5-.06(1)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Georgia's permit is explicitly retailer-facing: a registered representative "shall be authorized to contact Wholesalers and Retailers and Retail Consumption Dealers". Register BEFORE doing anything — the duty bites on "selling, promoting, displaying, or advertising", so an introductory meeting is already covered. An independent commission broker is squarely inside the seat: r. 560-2-2-.01(oo) defines a Representative as "a person, employee, agent, INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR, or salesperson WITH OR WITHOUT COMPENSATION from a Licensee", so neither contractor status nor being paid on commission puts you outside it. The permit is tied to the principal who appointed you — that principal notifies the Department of the appointment, and the permit ends when it tells the Commissioner the relationship has — so each principal needs its own. ⚠️ Georgia also licenses an entity called a "Broker", and you must NOT hold it: O.C.G.A. § 3-1-2 defines a Broker as a person who buys from a distillery and resells to another broker, importer or wholesaler without taking custody — a title-taking trade of record, not a commission agent. Taking title is the one thing the DISTRYB model does not do. ⚠️ Two operating limits worth knowing: you may not act as a salesperson or sales-clerk inside a retailer's place of business (r. 560-2-2-.11), and anything you do is deemed to be your principal's own act (r. 560-2-2-.27(1)(a)), so working unregistered puts THEIR licence at risk as well as your permit.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Georgia Department of Revenue, Alcohol and Tobacco Division
Cost: No fee is published in the rule
Term: No fixed term — the permit expires on notice to the Commissioner by the principal that the representation has ended
Also needs: Your principal must first notify the Department of your appointment as a Representative; You must then file a sworn application for the permit in the form the Commissioner prescribes; The Commissioner must have issued the permit before you carry on any activity; Registration runs through the Georgia Tax Center / Centralized Alcohol Licensing Portal linked from that page — there is no standalone downloadable form
Agency page →

Rests on Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 560-2-5-.06(1). Penalty: Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 560-2-5-.06(5).

HawaiiSolicitor's or Representative's Permit (county liquor commission)

Hawaii requires a Solicitor's or Representative's Permit (county liquor commission) (HRS § 281-39(c)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Hawaii has no state liquor agency: you apply to the liquor commission of each county you intend to work in, and each county sets its own term, fee and rules. A solicitor or representative may not have, own or control any liquor for sale, which suits a broker who takes no title.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: County liquor commissions (Honolulu, Hawaii, Maui, Kauai) — one application per county
Cost: Set by each county commission by rule, not by statute
Term: Set by each county commission by rule
Also needs: A statement from the manufacturer or wholesale dealer confirming your appointment as its solicitor or representative; A separate application to every county in which you propose to act; You may not have, own or control any liquor for sale

Rests on HRS § 281-39(c). Penalty: HRS § 281-102.

IowaBroker's Permit

Iowa requires a Broker's Permit (Iowa Code § 123.42(1)) before you can solicit orders there.

Iowa is the one state that defines our exact seat: a “broker” is a person who represents or promotes alcoholic liquor on behalf of a distiller, manufacturer or class “A” native distilled spirits licensee, and the statute says an employee of that holder is NOT a broker. One permit covers every principal you represent, but each one has to be named on a list you keep current with the department. Iowa is also a control state — the department is the sole wholesaler of spirits to class “E” retailers — so you promote to the trade while the state fills the order.

Where: Iowa Department of Revenue (the “department” defined at Iowa Code § 123.3(16))
Form: Submitted to the department electronically, or as the director prescribes
Cost: $25 annually
Term: Valid for one year from the date of issuance
Also needs: Apply BEFORE you represent or promote any product in the state — the duty attaches prior to the work; File a list of every manufacturer, distiller and importer you are appointed to represent, and amend it as it changes

Rests on Iowa Code § 123.42(1). Penalty: Iowa Code § 123.42(7).

IdahoSupplier Representative Permit

Idaho requires a Supplier Representative Permit (IDAPA 15.10.01.021.08) before you can present and promote products to the state.

Idaho names the independent seat expressly — a Supplier Representative "may be an individual, a group of individuals operating as a brokerage firm, or may be a direct employee of the Supplier" — and the firm can hold the permit for its people. ⚠️ Rule .021.07 also says "All Suppliers doing business with the Division will have resident representation", which may or may not require the representative to live in Idaho; the research did not settle it, so confirm with the Division before assuming either way.

Where: Idaho State Liquor Division
Cost: Up to $50 a year
Term: Annual
Also needs: One permit covers more than one supplier at no extra fee; A resident Supplier Representative cannot have been convicted of any felony

Rests on IDAPA 15.10.01.021.08. Penalty: IDAPA 15.10.01.021.13.

KentuckySpecial Agent's or Solicitor's License

Kentucky requires a Special Agent's or Solicitor's License (KRS 244.060(2)) before you can solicit orders from licensed wholesalers.

A non-resident can hold the Kentucky licence, but only if their home state issues a similar one — otherwise the application is not accepted without the approval of the home state’s alcoholic beverage control agency. A producer’s agent solicits wholesalers; calling on retailers is the wholesaler’s own lane.

Where: Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Cost: $30 per annum
Also needs: Every vendor you represent must be named on the licence or its application; A non-resident needs a similar licence from their home state, or that state’s ABC agency must approve the application

Rests on KRS 244.060(2). Penalty: KRS 243.990(1); KRS 243.990(2) for a KRS 243.020(1) breach, which escalates to a Class D felony on a third offence.

LouisianaSolicitor's Permit

Louisiana requires a Solicitor's Permit (La. R.S. 26:71(A)(4)) before you can solicit orders there.

Louisiana’s solicitor permit is per dealer: a solicitor may not represent more than one dealer, and that dealer’s name and address appear on the permit.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control
Cost: $5 each
Also needs: One dealer per permit, named on the permit

Rests on La. R.S. 26:71(A)(4). Penalty: La. R.S. 26:171.

MarylandSolicitor's Permit

Maryland requires a Solicitor's Permit (COMAR 14.23.01.07(B)(1)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Maryland Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission

Rests on COMAR 14.23.01.07(B)(1). Penalty: COMAR 14.23.01.07(B)(9).

MaineSales Representative License

Maine requires a Sales Representative License (28-A M.R.S. § 1502) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Maine sets no residency or employment condition, which makes it one of the two most straightforward states for an independent broker. The licence runs to 31 December whatever month you take it out, so a licence bought in November is worth two months.

Where: Maine Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations (BABLO)
Cost: $50 a year
Term: Expires on 31 December of the year it is obtained
Also needs: The application discloses the person, firm or corporation you represent; Your principal must also file your name with the bureau; Spirits samples are capped at 6 litres a year per distillery represented, with a sampling log

Rests on 28-A M.R.S. § 1502. Penalty: 28-A M.R.S. § 1503.

MichiganSalesperson License

Michigan requires a Salesperson License (MCL 436.1502(4)) before you can solicit orders there.

  • MCL 436.1502(5) exempts only display/pricing/rotation/shelving work and licensed drivers — soliciting or promoting to a retailer always needs the licence.
Where: Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC)
Cost: Set by Commission order — check the current MLCC fee schedule
Term: Triennial renewal
Also needs: You must be a designated employee of the manufacturer, outstate seller, wholesaler or broker you represent
Agency page →

Rests on MCL 436.1502(4). Penalty: MCL 436.1909 (felony).

MinnesotaBroker's License

Minnesota requires a Broker's License (Minn. Stat. § 340A.317, subd. 2) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Minnesota is the clearest YES in this whole set, because the statute licenses our seat by its own name and defines it as a NON-employee. Minn. Stat. § 340A.317, subd. 1: "'Broker' means a person who represents a distillery, winery, or importer, AND IS NOT AN EMPLOYEE of the distillery, winery, or importer." Subd. 2 requires the licence, at $600 a year, plus $20 for each of your own employees who also works the state. Your producer must give the commissioner a written statement "verifying the applicant's CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENT" and accepting responsibility for your actions, so the paperwork assumes a contract rather than a job, and it is tied to the producer you propose to represent. You may "promote a vendor's product and may call upon licensed retailers" — but note the enumerated purposes are product identification, advance notice of new products or changes, and sharing market information; ORDER-TAKING AT RETAIL IS NOT IN THAT LIST, and the separate representative rule (Minn. R. 7515.0210, subp. 2) bars a distiller's or winer's representative from taking orders from retail licensees. Confirm with Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement how far your programme may go before promising a retailer an order. Monthly sample reporting is required of the broker (subd. 3).

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division
Form: Application for Broker's License to Represent a Distillery, Winery or Importer
Cost: $600 per year for the broker, plus $20 per year for each employee of the broker
Term: Issued for one year
Also needs: A written statement from the distillery, winery or importer you propose to represent, verifying your contractual arrangement; That statement must also say the producer is responsible for your actions; A separate Statement of Representation is published for the producer to sign; Each of your own employees working the state needs their own broker's employee licence; Report monthly, within 60 days of month end, the samples given to licensed retailers (subd. 3)

Rests on Minn. Stat. § 340A.317, subd. 2. Penalty: Minn. Stat. § 340A.317, subd. 2.

MissouriSolicitor License (intoxicating liquor of all kinds)

Missouri requires a Solicitor License (intoxicating liquor of all kinds) (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 311.180.1) before you can solicit orders there.

Missouri names soliciting as licensed activity in its own right — § 311.180.1 bars anyone from soliciting orders for the sale of intoxicating liquor in the state without a licence. The Solicitor licence is the right one for a broker, and the statute keeps it compatible with taking no title: it expressly does NOT entitle the holder to sell direct to retailers, so you solicit and the wholesaler sells. The individual salesman permit was rescinded in 2018, but that only shelters a wholesaler’s own employee soliciting under their employer’s licence — it does not cover you.

Where: Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control
Cost: $250
Also needs: A bond form, or an assignment of a certificate of deposit; Register EVERY product before it is shipped into or sold within the state (§ 311.275); File monthly excise tax reports; Separate application checklists apply for in-state and out-of-state applicants
Agency page →

Rests on Mo. Rev. Stat. § 311.180.1. Penalty: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 311.880.

MississippiSolicitor's Permit (for use by a broker)

Mississippi requires a Solicitor's Permit (for use by a broker) (Miss. Code § 67-1-51(1)(d)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Mississippi licenses this seat FOR BROKERS BY NAME — the Department of Revenue's fee schedule lists "Solicitor (for use by a broker)" at $125, its ABC vendor page says under a "Broker Registration" heading that "Representatives and Brokers must obtain a solicitor's permit from the ABC Permit Department", and it publishes a current roster of them. So get the Solicitor's Permit; you are not shut out. The statute positively fits a commission agent: the permittee "shall [not] buy or sell alcoholic beverages for his own account", which is the no-title condition the DISTRYB model already meets. One permit covers one principal, but "the permittee may also, in the discretion of the department, be issued additional permits to represent other principals" — so a multi-principal book is possible, by application rather than by right. ⚠️ Do not confuse this with the separate MANUFACTURER'S REPRESENTATIVE registration, which genuinely is closed: that person must be the manufacturer's control state manager or an executive officer AND a full-time employee. That is the principal's own designated contact with the Division, not the solicitation seat, and you do not need it. Mississippi is a control state, so the Division is the buyer; ask the ABC Permit Department which counterparties your permit lets you approach before planning a retailer-facing programme.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Mississippi Department of Revenue, Alcoholic Beverage Control Division
Cost: $125 for the solicitor permit used by a broker
Also needs: The manufacturer files the registration application; the designated representative must be a full-time employee of the manufacturer; Every further person working in the state must also be registered with the Division; Representatives may not distribute alcohol or pour at sponsored events, and must report unlawful activity seen on a permitted premises

Rests on Miss. Code § 67-1-51(1)(d). Penalty: Miss. Code § 67-1-87.

North CarolinaBrokerage Representative Permit for Spirituous Liquor

North Carolina requires a Brokerage Representative Permit for Spirituous Liquor (14B NCAC 15C .0102(a)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

North Carolina needs two permits, not one: a Brokerage Permit for the business and a Brokerage Representative Permit for each individual who promotes. You may contact the Commission, local ABC boards and retail permittees about promotion and purchase, but entering an ABC store is limited to calling on the buyer, buying, or marketing with the local board’s written permission.

Where: North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission
Form: Application for Brokerage Representative Permit for Spirituous Liquor
Cost: $38 for the state and national fingerprint-based criminal history record check; permit fees are set under 14B NCAC 15A .0104
Also needs: A notarised application with a recent photograph; A certified criminal record check, and a state criminal history record check; Written authorisation from the brokerage you will represent; Name every brokerage, distillery, supplier or vendor you represent in the State on the application; The brokerage itself must separately hold a Brokerage Permit
Agency page →

Rests on 14B NCAC 15C .0102(a). Penalty: N.C.G.S. § 18B-102(b) (Class 1 misdemeanor) and § 18B-104(a), each reaching the rule via § 18B-101(1).

New JerseySolicitor's Permit

New Jersey requires a Solicitor's Permit (N.J.A.C. 13:2-16.1) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

New Jersey permits commission pay expressly, but the permit is issued only to a bona fide solicitor of a New Jersey Class A (manufacturer) or Class B (wholesaler) licensee, and "bona fide" is defined by performing substantial duties rather than by appearing on a form. You must carry the permit on you while soliciting.

Where: New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Term: Annual; the Division’s own orders record an expiry of 31 August, while the rule text as published says 31 May — confirm before diarising
Also needs: You must be a bona fide solicitor of a New Jersey Class A or Class B licensee; Carry the permit on your person while soliciting; Refused where an immediate family member holds any interest in, or participates in the operation of, a retail licence

Rests on N.J.A.C. 13:2-16.1. Penalty: N.J.S.A. 33:1-67; N.J.A.C. 13:2-16.14(a).

OhioSolicitor registration (agent, solicitor, trade marketing professional or salesperson)

Ohio requires a Solicitor registration (agent, solicitor, trade marketing professional or salesperson) (Ohio Admin. Code 4301-2-01(B)(1)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Control
Also needs: The employer files the registration and is named on your credentials; You may only solicit orders on behalf of the employer identified on your credentials

Rests on Ohio Admin. Code 4301-2-01(B)(1). Penalty: Ohio Rev. Code § 4303.25.

OklahomaWholesaler's Agent License

Oklahoma requires a Wholesaler's Agent License (37A O.S. § 2-120) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Oklahoma issues this licence to “agents AND employees” of a licensee, so an independent commission broker appointed as the agent of an Oklahoma-licensed wine and spirits wholesaler can hold it. You cannot also hold a manufacturer’s agent licence — the supplier-side and retailer-side seats are mutually exclusive here.

Where: Oklahoma ABLE Commission
Cost: $55 plus a $3.50 convenience fee, same on renewal
Also needs: You must be an agent or employee of a holder of an Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Control Act licence; You may not also hold a manufacturer’s agent licence
Agency page →

Rests on 37A O.S. § 2-120. Penalty: 37A O.S. § 6-117.

Rhode IslandAgent's License

Rhode Island requires an Agent's License (R.I. Gen. Laws § 3-6-12) before you can solicit orders there.

Rhode Island sets no residency and no employment condition, and deems anyone who represents a distillery, winery or brewery to be acting as its agent — so the licence is required whether or not you take title or take orders. Confirm with the Department whether one licence can cover several distilleries before relying on that.

Where: Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation, Division of Commercial Licensing
Cost: $50 a year, paid to the general treasurer
Term: Annual

Rests on R.I. Gen. Laws § 3-6-12. Penalty: R.I. Gen. Laws § 3-11-5; § 3-6-12 (suspension or revocation).

TennesseeManufacturer Representative Permit

Tennessee requires a Manufacturer Representative Permit (Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0100-03-.19(1), under T.C.A. § 57-3-202(d)) before you can solicit orders from licensed wholesalers.

The Tennessee permit belongs to you personally and names no manufacturer, so it travels between principals — but it is only required for soliciting orders from licensed wholesalers. Marketing and promoting to the public needs no permit, and a producer’s representative may not solicit, or provide any service to, a retail licensee at all.

Where: Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission
Also needs: Issued exclusively to the individual and not referencing any manufacturer, rectifier or importer; You may hold only one of the manufacturer/importer representative, wholesale salesman and wholesale employee permits

Rests on Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0100-03-.19(1), under T.C.A. § 57-3-202(d). Penalty: T.C.A. § 57-3-202(d); Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0100-06-.05.

VirginiaPermit to solicit mixed beverage licensees (solicitor salesperson — spirits)

Virginia requires a Permit to solicit mixed beverage licensees (solicitor salesperson — spirits) (Va. Code § 4.1-212(A)(2); 3VAC5-60-10(H)(1)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Virginia’s permit is brand-limited: it covers the brands named in the authorisation letter from your principal, and you must be at least 21.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority
Also needs: A brand authorisation letter from the principal; At least 21 years of age

Rests on Va. Code § 4.1-212(A)(2); 3VAC5-60-10(H)(1). Penalty: Va. Code § 4.1-229.

U.S. Virgin IslandsBusiness License — Solicitor, Sales & Commission Agent

U.S. Virgin Islands requires a Business License — Solicitor, Sales & Commission Agent (27 V.I.C. § 301, with the fee schedule at § 302(a)) before you can solicit orders there.

The Virgin Islands licenses this seat by name: DLCA issues business licences by category under Title 27, and one category is “Solicitor, Sales & Commission Agent” — the tenth largest in the territory, with 304 licences outstanding in FY21. Note the alcohol title (8 V.I.C. § 5) separately requires a business licence to brew, distil, blend, manufacture, sell or distribute; soliciting is not in that list, so the category licence is the one that reaches you. ⚠️ We could not obtain the text of Title 27 §§ 301–304, so confirm the category and any additional alcohol licence with DLCA before you rely on it.

Where: Virgin Islands Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA)
Cost: $75 annually under 27 V.I.C. § 302(a) — figure taken from the 2019 codification, so confirm it is current
Term: Business licences run for one year and must be renewed annually
Also needs: Documents must be on file from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Police Department and the Fire Service before a licence issues; Background check and zoning approval fees are charged separately; Ask DLCA whether a Title 8 alcohol licence is additionally required of someone who never takes title
Agency page →

Rests on 27 V.I.C. § 301, with the fee schedule at § 302(a). Penalty: 27 V.I.C. § 304.

VermontSolicitor's License

Vermont requires a Solicitor's License (7 V.S.A. § 275(a)) before you can present and promote products to the state.

Vermont’s solicitor licence authorises taking orders for malt, vinous and ready-to-drink products, but for spirits and fortified wines it is a promotion-only licence — it does not let you solicit spirits orders.

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Vermont Division of Liquor Control
Also needs: Granted to an individual by the Board

Rests on 7 V.S.A. § 275(a). Penalty: 7 V.S.A. § 651.

WisconsinPermit to solicit for future sales

Wisconsin requires a Permit to solicit for future sales (Wis. Stat. § 125.65(3)) before you can solicit orders from retailers.

Wisconsin permits the person and the employer separately — both the natural person actually soliciting and their employer must hold a permit under § 125.65(3). A nonresident may hold one, but may solicit Wisconsin retailers only where the order will be filled by a § 125.54 wholesaler.

Where: Wisconsin Department of Revenue
Also needs: Hold a valid business tax registration certificate under Wis. Stat. § 73.03(50) first; Be at least 18 and qualified under Wis. Stat. § 125.04(5)(a)1. and (b); Your employer must hold its own permit under the same section; As a nonresident, solicit retailers only for orders a § 125.54 wholesaler will fill

Rests on Wis. Stat. § 125.65(3). Penalty: Wis. Stat. § 125.65(9).

WyomingClass A Industry Representative License

Wyoming requires a Class A Industry Representative License (Wyo. Dept. of Revenue Rules ch. 20 § 4(a) (eff. 2026-03-13)) before you can present and promote products to the state.

Wyoming is a control state and the seat is promotion-only: a licensed representative may advertise, promote and visit licensees in person, but may not place orders on a licensee’s behalf with the Division, and an industry representative may not sell liquor in Wyoming to anyone but the Division. One licence can cover more than one company.

Where: Wyoming Department of Revenue, Liquor Division
Cost: Class A $100, class B $50, class C $10 per event (the statute caps class A at $750)
Term: Expires 30 June; renewals due 45 days before expiry
Also needs: A written statement from each vendor whose products you propose to represent; A class A representative may not be employed by a retail licensee

Rests on Wyo. Dept. of Revenue Rules ch. 20 § 4(a) (eff. 2026-03-13). Penalty: W.S. § 12-8-101.

May be required

4 states

The requirement is real and so is an exemption. Which one applies turns on who you represent, so it cannot be settled until you have a principal.

FloridaDistributor's Salesperson License

Florida requires a Distributor's Salesperson License (Fla. Stat. § 561.68) to solicit orders there — unless an exemption below covers who you'll be representing.

  • The solicitation or sale of cider is exempt (§ 561.68).
Where: Florida DBPR — Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco
Cost: $50
Term: Remains valid until a break in employment of more than 90 days
Agency page →

Rests on Fla. Stat. § 561.68. Penalty: Fla. Stat. ch. 562 (2nd-deg misdemeanor).

IllinoisBroker's License

Illinois requires a Broker's License (235 ILCS 5/5-1(l)) to solicit orders there — unless an exemption below covers who you'll be representing.

  • Does not apply to distributors or employees of distributors (235 ILCS 5/5-1(l)). A manufacturer's employees are also exempt, but only where the brand is registered under § 6-9 and sold solely to its registrants — confirm before relying on that one.
Where: Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC)
Cost: See the ILCC licence fee schedule
Also needs: Attaches to the individual, not the company
Agency page →

Rests on 235 ILCS 5/5-1(l). Penalty: 235 ILCS 5/10-1 (felony on repeat, qty-thresholded).

New YorkSolicitor's Permit

New York requires a Solicitor's Permit (NY ABC Law § 93) to solicit orders there — unless an exemption below covers who you'll be representing.

  • No permit is required to solicit on behalf of a micro-brewery, farm brewery, farm cidery, farm winery, micro-farm winery, micro-distillery, micro-rectifier or farm distillery (ABC § 93).

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: New York State Liquor Authority (SLA)
Form: SLA solicitor permit application (Form 1012)
Cost: $98 for the 3-year permit, plus a $20 filing fee and $102.25 for fingerprints
Term: 3 years, renewed on notice from the SLA
Also needs: $1,000 penal bond; fingerprints; photographs
Agency page →

Rests on NY ABC Law § 93. Penalty: ABC Law § 130 (misdemeanor).

WashingtonRepresentative's License

Washington requires a Representative's License (RCW 66.24.310) to solicit orders there — unless an exemption below covers who you'll be representing.

  • Domestic wineries and their employees are exempt, as are drivers delivering spirits, beer or wine (RCW 66.24.310).

The licence names the business you represent, so you need one for each principal you work with.

Where: Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB)
Cost: $50 per year
Also needs: The licensee you represent must approve your application
Agency page →

Rests on RCW 66.24.310. Penalty: RCW 66.44.180 (gross misd. on 2nd+).

No personal licence needed

16 states

No licence for you personally — but read the condition. In every one of these the answer holds only while you never take title to the product.

Alaska

Alaska does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on AS 04.09.100.

Arkansas

Arkansas does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on 3 CAR § 2-201(a); 3 CAR § 2-202(a).

Arizona

Arizona does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on A.R.S. § 4-244(6).

California

California does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 23011, with § 23020.

Colorado

Colorado does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on C.R.S. § 44-3-401.

Connecticut

Connecticut does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on C.G.S. § 30-17.

Kansas

Kansas does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on K.S.A. 41-331.

North Dakota

North Dakota does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on N.D.C.C. § 5-03-01.

Nebraska

Nebraska does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on Neb. Liquor Control Comm'n Rules ch. 6, § 016.07A.

New Mexico

New Mexico does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on NMSA 1978 § 60-6A-7(C).

Nevada

Nevada does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on NRS 369.490(1).

Oregon

Oregon does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on ORS 471.404(3).

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on 47 P.S. § 2-208 (vendor's permit); § 2-207(j).

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on Código de Rentas Internas de Puerto Rico de 2011 (Ley Núm. 1-2011), Sec. 5022.01.

South Dakota

South Dakota does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on S.D.C.L. § 35-4-60.1.

Texas

Texas does not require a personal broker licence to solicit orders there, as long as you never take title to the product — the sale has to run through a licensed wholesaler as seller of record.

Rests on Tex. HB 1545 (2019).

Thinking about brokering on DISTRYB? You can start signing up before any of this paperwork is done — we show you the same list for the territories you pick, and we check it again before a partnership goes live. See also how DISTRYB handles compliance.