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ABCA Caterer's License (alcohol at off-site catered events): Washington, D.C. restaurant guide

ABCA / ABC Board

What it is

Permits 'the sale, service, and consumption of spirits, beer and/or wine at catered events'. Alcohol service must be incidental to the food you prepare and serve.

When a restaurant needs it

Whenever you will pour alcohol at an event away from your licensed premises.

How to apply

Submit the Caterer's License Application with required documents and payment to ABCA for ABC Board approval. You must hold or have access to a DC Health-licensed kitchen.

Documents you’ll need

Fee
License fee from $500 to $5,000 based on annual gross revenue (per ABCA fee schedule), plus the $75 application fee
Processing time
Varies — ABC Board approval
Renewal
Up to 3 years on the license cycle; next renewal March 31, 2028. Financial reports are filed twice a year.
Who files
Licensee or ABC attorney.

Good to know

Applicants must be 21+. Settlement agreements and Board orders attached to your restaurant license can affect what you may do as a caterer.

Official source

ABCA: caterer's license · ABCA fee schedule (caterer tiers)

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.