(1) Any person or corporation, licensed to operate under the provisions of the laws of the United States, may apply to the department for a license to engage in the manufacture of liquor in the state of Montana. The application must be accompanied by a $600 license fee, to be paid annually upon renewal of the license. The applicant shall submit satisfactory evidence of good moral character and that he is qualified to operate under the laws of the United States.

(2) If the department is satisfied that the applicant is qualified, it may issue a license that must, at all times, be prominently displayed in the applicant's place of business. If the department finds that the applicant is not qualified, no license will be issued and the license fee shall be returned.