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Illinois Retailer's Liquor License (State): Chicago restaurant guide
Illinois Liquor Control Commission
What it is
The state retail liquor license. Illinois issues it only after you have your local (City of Chicago) liquor license.
When a restaurant needs it
After the city liquor license is issued and before any alcohol sale.
How to apply
Apply in the ILCC Portal (sign in through ILogin). MyTax Illinois stopped handling ILCC applications on Feb. 11, 2026.
Documents you’ll need
- Copy of current Chicago liquor license
- IDOR 8-digit sales tax account ID
- Certificate of liquor liability insurance (on-premises)
- Proof of purchase or possession (e.g., lease, bill of sale or deed)
- FEIN and ownership details
Fee
$750
Processing time
About 3–10 business days
Renewal
Annually (the first term follows the local license date)
Who files
The licensee files in the ILCC Portal; an attorney can assist.
Good to know
Order: city license first, then state. Selling alcohol before both are issued risks both licenses.
Official source
ILCC — retailer's license application · ILCC Portal FAQs
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.