Personal licences

A personal licence allows you to authorise the sale of alcohol from premises that hold a premises licence.

It can be used anywhere in England and Wales and lasts indefinitely, unless it is surrendered, suspended, or revoked, or if you no longer have the right to work in the UK.

You must apply to the licensing authority where you live, not where you work. If you live in the Colchester City area, you must apply to us, even if you work elsewhere.

If you are unsure who your local council is, you can use the find your local council tool.

Eligibility

To apply for a personal licence, you must:

• be aged 18 or over
• have the right to work in the UK
• hold a licensing qualification accredited by the Secretary of State (view list of accredited providers)
• not have forfeited a personal licence within the past 5 years

Apply online

Read the Guidance for Applicants before applying.

If you have a criminal conviction or immigration penalty

If you have:

• any unspent convictions for relevant or foreign offences
• been required to pay a civil immigration penalty
• unclear right to work in the UK

We are required to consult with the police or the Home Office. If they object, your application will be considered by the Licensing Sub-Committee, and you will be invited to attend the hearing.

After you are licensed

You must inform us as soon as reasonably practicable if you are convicted of a relevant or foreign offence. You must also inform the court that you hold a personal licence. Courts are also required to notify the Council of any convictions, even if they do not suspend or revoke your licence.

The Council may suspend your licence for up to 6 months or revoke it if you are convicted of a relevant offence.

Change of name or address

You must notify the Council in writing of any changes to your name or address. Update your details.

Surrendering your licence

You may surrender your personal licence at any time by submitting a notice to the Licensing Authority. Submit your notice.

Your licence will lapse on receipt of the notice.