If you own a business in Texas that involves the sale of alcohol, you must obtain a TABC license or permit. You can do this online or in person.

TABC officers occasionally visit establishments to check compliance with state law. They can fine or suspend your business license if they find any violations.

License Types

There are various TABC license types, each with specific requirements that must be met before the license is issued. Choosing the right license is essential and can significantly impact how quickly you get your claim approved.

A TABC liquor license is required before any establishment can sell or serve alcohol to customers. Obtaining a license is a time-consuming process that can also cost substantial money.

In Texas, the TABC regulates every aspect of the alcoholic beverage industry, including sales, manufacturing, distribution and transporting. The TABC is divided into three tiers – retail, wholesale and manufacturing.

Once you decide which TABC tier to operate, please choose and apply for the best license type. You can find information about which license suits your business on the TABC’s website. Alternatively, you can contact a licensed Texas liquor permit service provider to help determine which support is best for your business and they for it on your behalf.

Permit Fees

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) levies and collects fees on a two-year cycle for licenses and permits. These fees are set by TABC and vary depending on the type of business.

A license or permit is required for any alcohol-related activity that is not a licensed retailer. This includes manufacturing, distributing and selling alcohol.

A TABC Permit is necessary to ensure your operations comply with state rules whether you are establishing a new business or already have one.

Visit the TABC website for further details on the permit application procedure.

On September 1, 2021, the TABC will change how license and permit fees are calculated. The Alcohol Industry Management System, a new online platform, will include these modifications (AIMS).

Please get in touch with the TABC office in your area if you have any concerns about the new pricing schedules or AIMS. You may also visit our FAQ page for fast responses to frequently asked concerns regarding TABC.

License Renewals

If you own or operate a business in Texas, a TABC Permit is required. This license allows you to sell beer and wine in your establishment.

Your first license will be valid for two years, so renewing it yearly is essential. The state gives you a renewal notice about a month and a half before it expires.

Once your license has expired, you must apply for a new one. You can do this online or at your local driver’s licensing office.

After you’ve completed the application process, you’ll receive a receipt and a temporary credential. This is used until your new credential arrives by mail.

To obtain an on-premise Texas beer license, complete a TABC Form L-ON and submit it with a county clerk certificate that verifies the alcoholic content in your alcohol. This is required for all business establishments, including nightclubs and restaurants.

Contact Us

If you’re interested in opening a new restaurant or bar, you must obtain a TABC permit. The process can be long and complicated, so planning and having the permits before opening your location is essential.

Contact your city or county to find out if you need a TABC permit for the type of business you’re planning. Your local officials will also likely have information about zoning requirements, fees, late-hour operation standards, and certificate of occupancy requirements.

Once you’ve decided which TABC licenses and permits you need, complete the application through AIMS (the online hub for all TABC tasks). If you’re using paper applications, which take longer to process, you’ll fill out the prequalification packet, location packet, and business packet. All of these must be completed, signed, and notarized. It can take up to 50 days from the date TABC receives your complete application for you to get your license.