Official form guide
Form 68.1 Notice Of Application For A Certificate For A New Spirit Retailer's Off-Licence
This form is the official Notice of Application for a Certificate for a New Spirit Retailer's Off-Licence. You use it when you are applying to become a new retailer authorised to sell spirits off the premises in Ireland.
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Form Overview
Courts Service of Ireland - Form 68.1 Notice Of Application For A Certificate For A New Spirit Retailer's Off-Licence
This form is the official Notice of Application for a Certificate for a New Spirit Retailer's Off-Licence. You use it when you are applying to become a new retailer authorised to sell spirits off the premises in Ireland.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Do not forget to specify 'Spirit Retailer's Off-Licence' on Form 68.1 itself.
- 2Failing to provide the exact proposed retail address.
- 3Not clearly identifying the business name as registered with CRO (if applicable).
- 4Submitting the form without required supporting documentation attached.
- 5Mistaking this for a general licence application instead of an Off-Licence specific one.
Plain English
If you want to open up shop and start selling alcohol (spirits) without being a pub or bar, this is your starting point. It tells the Courts Service that you are officially asking for permission to operate as a 'Spirit Retailer's Off-Licence'.
Submission Date
- Filing date: The specific deadline is not confirmed in official source, but generally, applications should be submitted well ahead of your intended opening date.
- Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
- Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.
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Glossary Terms
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What this form is for
- You are opening a brand-new shop selling spirits (alcohol) off the premises in Ireland.
- This is specifically for getting the initial Certificate, not renewing an existing one.
- Use this form when you need official permission from the Courts Service to start trading as a spirit retailer.
- If you are applying under a specific scheme or condition, ensure that detail is noted on Form 68.1.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Existing Retailer
You already hold an Off-Licence and need it renewed.
✓ Check the Courts Service site for renewal codes.
Renewal Application (Likely different form)
Change of Business Name
Your business is changing its name but keeping the same licence location.
✓ Confirm if a separate 'Notice' is required alongside this one.
Form 68.1 (or related amendment form)
Transferring Licence
You are moving your existing Off-Licence to a new physical address.
✓ This form might be used, but check for a dedicated Transfer Notice.
Not confirmed in official source
Situation not specified on the form title alone.
✓ Always confirm with the Courts Service directly.
Deadline or filing window
The specific deadline is not confirmed in official source, but generally, applications should be submitted well ahead of your intended opening date.
Before you submit
- 1Ensure all sections requesting retailer/business details are fully completed.
- 2Attach proof of identity (e.g., passport copy).
- 3Include evidence of premises suitability (e.g., lease agreement, planning permission notice).
- 4Verify the proposed business address is accurate and matches official records.
- 5Check that all required signatures are present and legible.
- 6If applicable, include a map or site plan showing the retail location.
How to file this form
- 1Complete Form 68.1 thoroughly using black ink.
- 2Gather all supporting documentation mentioned in the form instructions.
- 3Sign and date the application where indicated.
- 4Determine if submission is online via the Courts Service portal or by post.
- 5If posting, send it to the correct address listed on the form.
- 6Keep a copy of the fully executed form for your own records.
Known limitations
- 1This form only applies to 'Spirit Retailers' Off-Licences; it may not cover general grocery stores selling spirits.
- 2It does not guarantee approval. Submission means you have applied, not that the Certificate is granted.
- 3The specific local authority requirements are not confirmed in this source alone; check your county council portal.
- 4Not confirmed in official source: The exact fee amount required is not listed on the form title.
Field map
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Proceedings
3 items
The names of the parties exactly as they appear on the originating document.
The court record number for the case, if one has been assigned.
The court and the office where the document is being filed.
Substance
2 items
What you are asking the court to do, or the information the form requires.
The facts relied on and any documents exhibited with the filing.
Execution
1 items
Signed, sworn or certified as the form requires, with proof of service where needed.
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Fillable formOpen in Editor->This is the active form for applying to become a new spirit retailer. Check the Courts Service of Ireland website for any recent updates or replacement forms.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Confirm the exact date printed on the form header.
- Check if there are any new boxes or fields related to specific local authority requirements.
- Verify the reference number (68.1) is clearly present.
- Look for updated contact details for the Courts Service of Ireland.
Quick Facts
Form Details
- Revision date
- 23/10/25
Downloads & source
Sources
- SRCIssuing Agency: Courts Service of Ireland (COURTS)
- SRCForm Number: 68.1
- SRCForm Name: Notice Of Application For A Certificate For A New Spirit Retailer's Off-Licence
- SRCPurpose: To apply for the initial permission to sell spirits off premises.
- SRCNot confirmed in official source: Specific required supporting documents list.
Common confusion points
Confusing 'Off-Licence' with a full 'On-Licence' (which implies serving drinks on site).
Not knowing whether the application must be submitted through your local County Council or directly to the Courts Service.
Assuming that filling out the form automatically grants permission; follow up is necessary.
Mistaking this for a tax registration form, when it relates specifically to retail trading permission.
Source transparency
Copyright & Licensing — Irish Government Forms
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