The object of getting a personal licence is indeed to authorise the sale of alcohol after 24th November 2005 when the law changes. This does not mean you need a licence to work in an off licence or Sainbury's till or even a pub. The Designated Premises Supervisor who is in charge of the premises must have a Personal Licence to hold that position. There is no necessity to have suc a licence unless you want to acquire that position. As well as the exam and qualification (which is no more difficult that the previous one) you need to have a Criminal Records Bureau check and fill in some forms from teh Council as well as submitting two photographs. There is also a fee. Details are available on the
www.culture.gov.uk website in some detail or, better still, check your own Council's website under "licensing" - most will have full details there.