Overview
The Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH) is the qualification required in England and Wales for anyone who wants to hold a personal licence authorising the sale of alcohol under the Licensing Act 2003. Passing the APLH is a prerequisite for applying to a local council for a personal licence.
Who can apply
There is no formal entry requirement to sit the APLH course and exam, though candidates are usually over 18 and working or planning to work in licensed retail or hospitality. To then apply for the personal licence itself, candidates must also pass the standard criminal record checks required by the council.
Exam pattern
The qualification is delivered through training covering seven modules: licensing law, personal licences, premises licences, the protection of children, powers and enforcement, temporary events, and responsible alcohol retailing. The exam is a 40-question multiple-choice test, to be completed in one hour, with a minimum pass mark of 70%.
Fees
Course and exam fees vary by training provider; packages commonly range from around £60 (exam only) to over £100 plus VAT (training and exam combined).
How to apply
Candidates book an APLH course and exam through an accredited awarding-body training provider. After passing, the certificate is submitted with the personal licence application to the relevant local licensing authority.
FAQs
Is passing the APLH the same as holding a personal licence?
No. Passing the APLH qualification is a requirement for applying for a personal licence; the licence itself is granted separately by a local licensing authority.
What is the pass mark for the APLH exam?
70%, on a 40-question multiple-choice paper completed within one hour.