Ace the California ABC Certification 2026 – Sip, Study, and Shine!

The term "onsale" refers specifically to alcoholic beverages that are sold for consumption on the premises where they are purchased. This means that when a customer buys an alcoholic drink at a bar, restaurant, or any establishment with a proper license, they are consuming it in the same location. This definition is essential for understanding various licensing and operational regulations that establishments must adhere to under California’s Alcoholic Beverage Control law.

For example, a bar that serves cocktails or a restaurant that sells wine for dining purposes both engage in "onsale" activities, which require a specific type of license from the ABC. This contrasts with offsale consumption where beverages are sold to be taken away and consumed elsewhere, which is governed by different regulations. Understanding this distinction is important for compliance with state laws and ensures that businesses operate within the legal framework set by the ABC.