Festival Season is Calling – Are You Licensed to Serve?

Whether you’re shaking cocktails at a festival, pouring pints at a pop-up, or setting up a mobile bar, there’s one thing you’ll definitely need sorted: your license.

That’s where we come in.

At The Digital College, we offer the APLH (Award for Personal License Holders) course – a fully online, accredited qualification that helps festival and event traders get licensed quickly and easily.

After over a decade supporting the hospitality industry, we’ve heard every question there is about selling alcohol – from the common to the completely unexpected. No matter how unique your setup or situation, chances are we’ve helped someone like you before – and we’re ready to help you too. Before you pack the van and head to the next big event, here’s what we’ve learned about getting licensed and being successful on the big day:

Do I need a personal license to sell alcohol at events?

In most cases, yes – you do need a personal license to sell alcohol at events. Whether you’re operating at a festival, temporary event, private function, or any short-term occasion, it’s a legal requirement to have a personal license holder present on-site. This applies to a wide range of setups, including mobile bars, beer tents, food stalls selling alcohol, and private event bars where drinks are sold.

Simply put, anytime alcohol is sold, having a licensed individual on site is essential to comply with licensing regulations and ensure everything runs smoothly.

What is the APLH?

The APLH (Award for Personal License Holders) is the official qualification required to apply for a personal license in England and Wales. It demonstrates that you understand the laws surrounding alcohol sales and are trained to sell alcohol responsibly and legally.

It’s important to note that a personal license is different from a premises license: while a personal license authorises an individual to sell alcohol, a premises license authorises the specific location where alcohol can be sold. So, if you’re selling at multiple events or venues, having a personal license allows you to do so without needing a separate premises license for each location!

Does everyone in my team need one?

No, not everyone on your team needs a personal license – only one person per business is required to hold it. However, that license holder must be present and responsible whenever alcohol is being sold. It’s a good idea to consider having a second person trained and licensed as well, just in case the main license holder can’t be there due to illness or other unexpected reasons. That way, your event stays fully compliant and runs smoothly, no matter what!

My business is mobile. Which council do I apply to?

If your business is mobile, you apply for your personal license through the local council where you live, not where you trade. This means your local licensing authority will handle your application, no matter where you travel. It’s important to get in touch with your local council early to understand their specific process and requirements.

What kind of events require a personal license?

It’s not the type of event that determines whether you need a personal license – it’s whether you’re selling alcohol. Whether you’re at a massive music festival, a small local fete, or any other kind of temporary event, if you’re selling alcohol, a personal license holder must be present. So, no matter the size or style of your event, this license is essential to stay compliant and serve responsibly.

Where do I start?

With us. The Digital College’s APLH course is designed for busy traders – online, flexible, and compliant with all licensing regulations. We even take care of the DBS checks and local council application if you want!

Top tip: Remember, you will need approval from your local council so try to plan ahead and give yourself a couple of months or more for the application process, especially at busy times of year.

Ready to get licensed?

Take the APLH course with The Digital College. Make this summer stress-free by getting your license sorted in advance.