New Mexico Liquor Licenses

Liquor licenses in New Mexico are privileges controlled by the New Mexico Liquor License Control Act ("Law") and interpreted by regulations offerring guidance, interpretation, or clarification of this Law ("Regs").

In order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of New Mexico residents and its visitors, the Law is enforced by the Investigations Division of the Department of Public Safety ("DPS"). Ultimately, the administration of New Mexico Liquor Licenses is overseen by the New Mexico Alcohol and Gaming Division ("AGD"), a division of New Mexico Regulation and Licensing.

In order to buy a liquor license, a prospective buyer must enter into a contract with an owner of a New Mexico liquor license and then apply to be approved by AGD for the transfer of ownership and oftentimes location of the liquor license. As there are numerous issues which arise in the purchase, sale, or lease of a New Mexico liquor license, prospective sellers, buyers, and lessees of liquor licenses have used our firm for more than 20 years to assist them through this complex and specialized area of law.

Common Questions Include:

1. How much do New Mexico liquor licenses cost?
2. Can I buy a license and transfer it out of an "under quota" area?
3. What is an interlocal transfer?
4. How do I insure that I continue selling liquor during the sale or purchase of my hotel or nightclub?
5. What are the consequences of my employees selling to minors or intoxicated persons?
6. Do I qualify for a beer and wine license?


For any of your liquor license or related business questions, please contact Mark Rhodes at (505) 247-0328 or e-mail at mmr@rspcnm.com or look for our listing at www.naabla.com