The sale of liquor is highly regulated by the state since it is a profitable business. As such, all establishments with the intention of selling liquor within Texas must firstly obtain their liquor license or ask a liquor law attorney to help you with. However, the retailer must obtain the license before they can actually start selling alcohol, the license is obtained via the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission (TABC).
The process involved is somewhat long and daunting and can only be accomplished with having both attention and perseverance for the rules set in place. Before being able to start the process, you will need your retail establishment documents, licensing fees and the licensure package from the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission. Once these things are obtained, you will soon be on your way to put in your application.
The licensure package obtained from the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission contains all the relevant information and forms needed to start the process. After completing all the forms, you should then return it to your local TABC office. The typically processing time for this procedure is about 60 days.
You should place in a highly noticeable location at the front of your establishment notifying the public that you did however apply for your liquor license. However, both outdoor posting guidelines and general signage guidelines are readily available at the local TABC office. In addition, you will need to be fully prepared for inspection by the TABC, this is required for new applicants who are seeking to obtain a liquor license.
You will then be required to attend an interview at the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission. However, the other owners as well as the managing partners are also supposed to attend the interview with the applicant. This interview is generally scheduled after your application has been processed.
After the interview has been conducted, you will then be required to pay the state fees to the TABC which are not refundable as long as the liquor license was issued. You will then need to attend a hearing at the courthouse, the TABC will however provide information concerning your license for a review by the judge. For the purpose of representing your interests, you may want to seek a reliable legal counsel to be present with you.
As we conclude, we have just looked at how a liquor license can be obtained in Texas. In order to keep your license in both good standing as well as active, you will need to ensure that you always follow the country and state guidelines.
Kandice Hedrick
Freelance Journalist, Mass Communication Professor. Trying to be a good human being & good global citizen .