In Texas, selling or serving alcohol without the proper license isn't just risky — it's illegal. And with over 50 types of liquor licenses issued by the
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.
This guide will walk you through:
- How to get a liquor license in Texas
- How much it costs
- Common roadblocks to watch for
- The difference between a liquor license and alcohol training certification
- Why every staff member should be TABC certified
Whether you're a business owner, manager, bartender, or alcohol server, this blog has what you need to serve responsibly — and legally.
A
liquor license in Texas is a permit issued by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) that allows businesses to legally sell, serve, or distribute alcoholic beverages.
Depending on your business type, there are several classes of licenses, including:
- On-premise licenses (bars, restaurants)
- Off-premise licenses (liquor stores, convenience stores)
- Mixed beverage permits
- Wine & beer retailer permits
- And many others
⚠️ Important: Only the TABC (not third-party companies like us) can issue these licenses. But we can help with TABC certification, which is something every business in the alcohol space should know about (more on that soon).
If you plan to
sell or serve alcoholic beverages in Texas as part of your business, you need a liquor license. This includes:
- Bars
- Nightclubs
- Restaurants
- Breweries & wineries
- Event venues
- Convenience or liquor stores
- Hotels and golf clubs
Whether you’re a business owner or general manager, getting licensed is your first step toward compliance and long-term success.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Texas has
50+ types of TABC licenses, so picking the right one is essential. Use the
TABC License and Permit Wizard to figure out what’s right for your operation.
For example:
- Mixed Beverage Permit (MB): For bars and restaurants serving liquor on-site
- Wine and Beer Retailer’s Permit (BG): For restaurants that don’t serve spirits
- Package Store Permit (P): For selling liquor to-go, like at liquor stores
Before applying, make sure you’ve:
- Formed your legal business entity (LLC, partnership, etc.)
- Registered with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
- Received your Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Your business location must:
- Be properly zoned for alcohol sales
- Comply with city ordinances and distance requirements (like being a certain distance from schools or churches)
Check with your city or county clerk for local regulations.
You can apply via the
TABC’s AIMS (Alcohol Industry Management System) online portal. You’ll need:
- Business details and owner information
- Floorplans
- Lease agreement or proof of property ownership
- Proof of zoning approvals
TABC may perform background checks on owners and officers. You may also be required to post public notice of your application for a specific period.
Fees vary depending on license type and business location. (More on this below!)
Once submitted, the approval process can take 45–60 days depending on your license and location.
One of the most common questions: How much is a liquor license in Texas?
The answer: It depends on the type of license and your business setup.
Here’s a general breakdown of the average cost according to license type:
- Wine & Beer Retailer’s Permit (BG): $500–$2,000/year
- Mixed Beverage Permit (MB): $3,000–$6,000/year
- Package Store Permit (P): $1,000–$2,500/year
- Beer Retail Dealer’s On-Premise License (BE): $300–$1,000/year
💡 Keep in mind: You may also need to pay local fees, inspection fees, or renewal costs annually. Always budget for additional expenses.
This is where a lot of people get confused — so let’s clear it up.
- For businesses (bars, restaurants, stores)
- Issued by the TABC
- Required to sell or serve alcohol legally
- For individuals (bartenders, servers, sellers)
- Not legally required, but often mandatory by employers
- Helps staff understand laws, avoid violations, and serve responsibly
📢 Here’s where we come in:
If you're hiring bartenders, servers, or managers, they should be
TABC certified. Our
Texas Alcohol Awareness Training course is state-approved and perfect for owners, sellers, and employees.
- Choosing the Wrong License Type
Apply for the wrong permit? It could delay your business opening. Use TABC’s tools and consult with an expert if you’re unsure. - Missing Local Permits
Even if TABC approves your application, your city or county may have additional zoning, signage, or distance laws. - Long Processing Times
Expect a 45–60 day window, but it could stretch longer if paperwork is missing or local objections arise. - Untrained Staff = Risk
Without TABC certification, your staff might unintentionally break the law (serving to minors, over-serving customers, etc.). Protect your license by investing in their training.
Here are some key insights for 2025 and beyond:
- Online TABC Applications: Digital tools have made applying and renewing easier than ever.
- Demand for Certified Staff: More employers are requiring certification for all front-line staff to lower liability and improve safety.
- Craft & Specialty Licenses: Breweries and distilleries are booming, prompting more custom licensing options from the TABC.
- Local Oversight: Cities like Austin and Dallas are tightening local ordinances. Always double-check with local authorities before applying.
✅ Start Early: Don’t wait until your opening week to apply — begin 2–3 months in advance.
✅ Document Everything: TABC is detail-oriented. Missing documents = delays.
✅ Train Your Team: Even if certification isn’t required, it's a huge advantage. Staff who understand Texas alcohol laws help protect your license — and your bottom line.
✅ Know Your Local Rules: Distance requirements, signage restrictions, and hours of sale vary by city and county.
✅ Invest in Certification: Our
Texas Alcohol Awareness Training course is 100% online, mobile-friendly, and recognized statewide — a smart move for any owner or manager building a team.
Typically 45–60 days, depending on the license type, city requirements, and documentation.
Yes — you can apply through the TABC’s AIMS portal.
Selling or serving alcohol without a license is illegal in Texas and can result in fines, closures, or criminal charges.
Securing a liquor license in Texas isn’t just a regulatory hurdle — it’s a foundational step for building a legal, successful alcohol-serving business. With the right license, proper planning, and a well-trained team, you’ll be ready to operate confidently and responsibly.
And while we don’t issue liquor licenses, we do provide
TABC certification to get your team ready for success. Whether you're an owner, manager, or bartender, our
Texas Alcohol Awareness Training course is your first step toward a safe, compliant operation.
🍸 Ready to make your alcohol-serving business in Texas a success? Start with the license. Support it with the right training. Serve responsibly.
