Personal Licence Vs. Premises Licence — What’s the Difference?

by | Jun 4, 2022 | Personal Licence, Premises Licence

As a personal licence holder, it’s important to know the difference between a personal licence and a premises licence. A personal licence allows you to sell alcohol, while a premises licence allows the business owner to sell alcohol.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the differences between premises and personal licence and what each one entails. We’ll also outline the benefits of having each type of licence. So, whether you’re new to selling alcohol or are looking for clarification on licences, read on!

Difference Between Personal and Premises Licence:

A personal licence is granted to an individual, enabling that person to authorise the sale of alcohol from licenced premises. A premises licence allows licensable activities, including the sale of alcohol, to take place from premises.

Personal licence holders can work in any licensed premises within England and Wales, while premises licences are specific to one premise.

A premises licence is granted to a premises owner, occupier, or someone who has been authorised by the premises owner or occupier, such as a tenant.

The premises must be used for a business purpose and the application must be made by someone who is over 18 years old.

 

Benefits of Having a Personal Licence:

There are many benefits to having a Personal Licence, including:

  • You can work in any licensed premises for the supply of alcohol within England and Wales.
  • A Personal Licence shows you’re a responsible person who is knowledgeable about the sale of alcohol.
  • It can give you a career boost, as it demonstrates your commitment to working in the hospitality industry.
  • If you hold a personal licence, you are authorizing the sale of alcohol from licensed premises, which can be beneficial for businesses.

 

Benefits of Having a Premises Licence:

There are many benefits to having a Premises Licence, including:

  • A Premises Licence offers club premises certificate that allows businesses to sell alcohol and host licensable activities.
  • It demonstrates that the premises are run by responsible individuals who are knowledgeable about the sale of alcohol.
  • Having club premises certificates can give businesses a competitive edge, as it shows that they are committed to complying with the law.
  • A Premises Licence Holder can also make businesses more attractive to customers, as it shows that they take their responsibilities seriously.

 

Personal Licence Cost:

The cost of a Personal Licence is £37, which is payable to your local council. You may also incur extra costs (around £25) when obtaining your basic DBS check. Your Personal Licence does not have an expiry date.

Search gov.uk website to know more about a personal licensing act and responsible authorities.

 

Premises Licence Cost:

The cost of a Premises Licence varies depending on the type of premises and the activities that will take place there. For example, premises used for music and dancing will typically cost more than premises used for selling alcohol only. The cost of a Premises Licence is also dependent on the rateable value of the premises.

You can find out more about how to apply for a Premises Licence here.

 

Personal Licence Applications:

To apply for a Personal Licence, you must:

  • be over 18 years old
  • have a valid form of ID
  • have completed an accredited qualification in alcohol licensing law (e.g. the Level Two Award for Personal Licence Holders)
  • have a basic Designated Premises Supervisor DBS or local licensing authority check (obtained within the last three months)
  • complete and submit a personal licence application form to your local council, along with the required fee.

You can find out more about how to apply for a Personal Licence here.

 

Premises licence applications:

To apply for a Premises Licence, you must:

  • be over 18 years old
  • have a valid form of ID
  • share your operating schedule
  • understand your licensing objectives
  • have premises that are used for business purposes
  • complete and submit a premises licence application form to your local authority or designated premises supervisor, along with the required fee.

You can find out more about how to apply for a Premises Licences here.

 

Key things to remember:

  • A personal licence allows you to work in any licensed premises within England and Wales.
  • A premises licence is specific to one premise.
  • The cost of a Personal Licence is £37, while the cost of a Premises Licence varies depending on the type of premises and activities taking place there.
  • To apply for either type of licence, you must be over 18 years old, have a valid form of ID, and complete the relevant application form.
  • You will also need to obtain a basic DBS check (for a Personal Licence) or have premises that are used for business purposes (for a Premises Licence).

 

Conclusion:

We hope this article has been helpful in explaining the difference between a Personal Licence and a Premises Licence, as well as the requirements and costs associated with each. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Happy licensing!