Grants you need to open a catering establishment
If you dream of starting your own restaurant, it is important to get the right licenses in place. In Norway, you must have a restaurant license to operate legally. This applies to all types of restaurants, from cafes and restaurants to food trucks and bars. If you plan to sell alcohol, you will also need a liquor license. Here is an overview:
Serving license
A catering license is required if you are going to serve food and drinks to your guests. To get this, you must document that you have passed the establishment test for catering. The test tests your knowledge of regulations such as hygiene, financial operations and the working environment. In addition, the general manager must be 18 years old and "fit" , which means that you cannot have serious criminal offenses or financial problems in your luggage. You submit the application to the municipality , and the processing time can vary, so it pays to be early.
Do you need help practicing for the establishment test or the knowledge test for a bar license? At vinn.no , you can buy courses that can help you understand and pass the tests.
Liquor license
If you want to serve alcohol, you must also apply for a liquor license. There are several things to look out for here: The general manager and deputy must have passed the knowledge test on the Alcohol Act. This test goes into detail about the rules for selling and serving alcohol, such as serving times and who you can serve to. The municipality will also check your finances and any criminal record , so it is important to have your papers in order. The liquor license applies to one specific premises, and there are strict requirements for the premises to be suitable for serving.
Take some time to prepare well - there will be a lot of paperwork and tests you will have to take, and ensure good contact with your municipality for help and guidance along the way.
Get your routines in order!
Once you have your permits in place, the real work begins: Now the rules must be followed in practice. It is your responsibility to have procedures in place, for example to ensure that employees do not serve alcohol to minors or to people who are too intoxicated. Violations of the rules can lead to fines or, in the worst case, the withdrawal of the permit.
Before you get started – check out:
Lovdata.no : To read the actual legal texts ( Serving Act and Alcohol Act ).
Your municipality's website : Municipalities are responsible for processing permit applications and often provide detailed guidance on local requirements and processes.
Directorate of Health : For information about the Alcohol Act's knowledge test and guidelines .