skjenkebevilling
How to obtain a skjenkebevilling: Requirements, exam and application
Will the restaurant serve alcohol? Learn the difference between skjenkebevilling and serveringsbevilling, the requirements for those responsible and how to apply to the municipality.
By TestPrep · 3 min read
Short answer: apply to the municipality for a skjenkebevilling
If you plan to serve alcohol for guests to drink at the restaurant, the business generally needs skjenkebevilling from the municipality. Passing Kunnskapsprøve (Alcohol law exam) provides proof of knowledge, not permission to serve alcohol. Start on the municipality’s website and select the application for a permanent skjenkebevilling for your business.
1. Clarify serveringsbevilling requirements and premises
serveringsbevilling covers the food service business itself, while skjenkebevilling covers alcohol. A restaurant serving food and alcohol normally needs both. Describe your operating concept, premises and any outdoor areas to the municipality. Also confirm that the premises can be used for your intended purpose before committing to major investments.
2. Find a styrer and stedfortreder
For a standard skjenkebevilling, a styrer and a stedfortreder must generally be approved. Both must be at least 20 years old and document their knowledge of alkoholloven by passing Kunnskapsprøven for skjenking (Alcohol law exam for on-premises service). The general manager of the food and drink establishment has a different role and normally needs Etablererprøven (Restaurant operator exam). The same person can hold several roles, but the exams do not replace each other.
3. Gather supporting documents and submit the application
Use the municipality’s up-to-date document checklist. It may include information about the company, owners, financing, premises and responsible persons, as well as proof of passed exams. Submit complete information and answer any questions from the municipality. The municipality assesses both the legal requirements and local alcohol policy considerations; no one can promise that your application will be approved.
How much does a skjenkebevilling cost, and how long does it take?
Licence fees, exam fees and course prices are separate costs. Check current fees and expected processing times with the municipality where the restaurant is located. Do not plan when to start serving alcohol based on a general timeframe found online. You must have the necessary permission before you start serving alcohol.
How TestPrep can help with Kunnskapsprøven (Alcohol law exam)
TestPrep offers preparation for Kunnskapsprøven for skjenking (Alcohol law exam for on-premises service), with course material, questions with explanations and a mock exam. Start with five free questions without an account. The official exam and application are handled by the municipality. TestPrep does not issue licences and guarantees neither a pass nor an approved application.
What should the business clarify before booking a course?
Clarify who will be the styrer and stedfortreder for the skjenkebevilling, and who is the general manager of the establishment. Some people may hold several roles and need both exams, but not all employees automatically need the same exam. Choose a course based on the role and check the requirements with the municipality. TestPrep’s Kunnskapsprøven course covers serving alcohol, not selling alcohol to take away.
When taking over: clarify alcohol licensing separately
An agreement to buy or lease a restaurant is not a skjenkebevilling. Ask the municipality about a new application, change of ownership and the conditions that apply before planning to serve alcohol. Do not use transitional rules for serveringsbevilling as an answer to what applies to alcohol. Passing an exam or purchasing a course does not give you a temporary right to serve alcohol either.
Sources and official information
The information is based on official sources. Information from Oslo is used as local examples. Always check current requirements, fees and application procedures with your own municipality and the relevant authority.