Designated Premises Supervisor

What Is a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)?

The Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) is the named personal licence holder who has been formally appointed by the Premises Licence Holder and listed on the Premises Licence.

Every Premises Licence that authorises the sale of alcohol must specify a DPS. Their role is to ensure that one identifiable individual is responsible for overseeing the premises’ day-to-day alcohol sales and ensuring legal compliance.


Responsibilities of the DPS

Under the Licensing Act 2003, the DPS is typically the person given day-to-day responsibility for managing the premises and supervising the sale of alcohol. This individual:

  • Must hold a valid Personal Licence

  • Does not need to be on-site at all times, but remains legally responsible

  • Must ensure that alcohol sales comply with licensing laws and the terms of the Premises Licence

  • Must actively promote the four licensing objectives:

    • Prevention of crime and disorder

    • Public safety

    • Prevention of public nuisance

    • Protection of children from harm

Only one DPS may be appointed per premises at any time. However, a single DPS may be responsible for multiple premises, provided they can maintain compliance across all locations.


Legal Requirement to Have a DPS

If a Premises Licence authorises the retail sale of alcohol, it is a legal requirement that:

  • A Designated Premises Supervisor is named on the licence

  • The DPS holds a valid Personal Licence

  • No alcohol is sold if the DPS is not in place, or their licence is suspended or revoked

No DPS Appointed?
Selling alcohol without a valid DPS is considered an unauthorised sale of alcohol, which is a criminal offence punishable by an unlimited fine and/or up to 6 months' imprisonment


Changing the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)

If you need to change the DPS at a licensed premises, you must:

  1. Submit a formal application to the relevant Licensing Authority

  2. Include a consent form signed by the proposed DPS

  3. Notify the Police, who may only object in exceptional circumstances, such as concerns related to crime prevention


Let Inn Confidence Handle It for You

We can manage the entire process of changing your DPS on your behalf — quickly and correctly.

✅ We will:

  • Complete and submit the application form

  • Provide and finalise the DPS consent documentation

  • Liaise with the Licensing Authority and the Police

  • Track the application to completion

📦 All we need from you:

  • The original Premises Licence

  • The signed DPS consent form (we’ll provide this)


Fixed-Fee DPS Change Service – £125 + VAT

We charge a fixed fee of £125 + VAT, which includes:

  • All Licensing Authority fees

  • Full admin, form handling, and submission

  • Professional guidance throughout the process


📞 Need to change your DPS?
Call us today on 0151 558 1783, or complete the form below and we’ll take care of the rest.