COLA Application
A COLA application is the formal submission to the TTB requesting federal approval for a specific alcoholic beverage label, including all mandatory label elements, product details, and supporting documentation required before the product can legally enter interstate commerce.
In Plain English
A COLA application is the paperwork and label artwork you submit to the TTB when you want to sell a new alcoholic beverage or change an existing product's label. The application includes the actual label images (front and back), information about the product like its alcohol content and type, and any required supporting documents like lab analyses or formulas. Most applications are now submitted electronically through the COLAs Online system, though paper submissions are still accepted. The TTB reviews every detail of the label to make sure it complies with federal regulations before granting approval. Getting your COLA application right on the first submission saves significant time, because revisions and rejections add weeks to your timeline.
Technical Detail
COLA applications are submitted on TTB Form 5100.31 (Application for and Certification/Exemption of Label/Bottle Approval). The form requires: applicant information including the basic permit or brewers notice number, product class and type, brand name, alcohol content, net contents, and country of origin for imports. Label images must show all mandatory statements including the brand name, class and type designation, alcohol content, net contents, name and address of the bottler/importer, health warning statement, and any applicable allergen declarations. Electronic submissions through COLAs Online receive a TTB ID upon receipt. The application may be approved, returned for correction, or rejected. Common rejection reasons include incorrect alcohol content tolerances, missing mandatory label elements, misleading brand names, or claims that require formula approval.
Why It Matters
COLA applications are the raw data feed that powers BevAlc Intelligence's signal classification system. Each new application is analyzed to determine whether it represents a new company entering the market, a new brand from an existing company, a new SKU variant, or a simple refile. For compliance consultants, helping clients prepare COLA applications that pass on the first submission is a core service offering. For packaging companies and label printers, the volume and timing of COLA applications directly indicates upcoming production orders.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a COLA application cost?
There is no fee to submit a COLA application to the TTB. The review and approval process is provided at no cost to applicants. However, companies must hold a valid federal basic permit or brewers notice, which also has no filing fee but requires time and documentation to obtain.
Can I submit a COLA application before I have a federal permit?
No. You must hold a valid federal basic permit (for wine and spirits) or brewers notice (for malt beverages) before submitting COLA applications. The permit number is a required field on the application form and is validated by the system.
What happens if my COLA application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, the TTB provides a detailed explanation of the issues. You can correct the problems and resubmit as a new application. There is no formal appeals process for rejections, but you can request an informal conference with TTB specialists to discuss the specific issues.