Once your business or restaurant has acquired a TABC license to sell alcohol, it often feels like a big relief after applying for the license and waiting for approval. While the hard part is done, it’s still essential to understand that your license is an ongoing privilege from the state of Texas that will need renewal. Having help from attorneys experienced in Texas liquor law can be helpful as you head into the renewal. Below, we outline some frequently asked questions about Texas liquor license renewal, as well as some of the most important steps to remember.
How long does a TABC license last in Texas?
In Texas, your liquor license will last two years from the date it is issued. If your Texas liquor license or permit is not canceled or revoked, you can renew it as many times as you may need it.
However, while you need to renew it every two years, it is also important to note that you should not wait until the two years is up to put in your renewal as the law requires that a renewal application is submitted before the expiration date. Typically 15-30 days prior to the date of expiration is a good amount of time to give yourself.
While the expiration date is printed on the license or permit itself, which must be displayed at all times in your business, if you are unable to access your expiration date, you can look up your permit anytime using TABC’s AIMS (Alcohol Industry Management) System.
It is a wise idea to set a reminder in your phone or on your calendar for about a month before your permit expires, so you don’t miss the window.
How to get a copy of TABC renewal license?
The renewal application can be done completely online using the AIMS System. You will want to ensure that you have the correct information ready ahead of time to ensure that the process goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. As license and permit holders, you may need to provide the following information:
- Trade Name of your business
- Ownership information
- Mailing address
- Location address
- Contact information for if the TABC needs to reach out, this should be the owner of the business or someone knowledgeable about the business and its liquor license
- License or permit number and the issue date
- Any applicable bond information, if you hold a mixed beverage permit but not a food and beverage certificate this may apply to you
- Previous 12 months of sales data (including alcohol sales, food sales if applicable, other sales, and the total sales amount)
If any of this information has changed in the time since the license or permit was issued, you will likely need to contact the TABC directly or have an experienced attorney walk you through the renewal application. It may mean that you will need to send in hard copies showing proof of the changes that took place (such as a change of owner address, etc.).
Finally, note that if your application is submitted more than 30 days after the expiration date then you will be unable to renew. Instead, you will need to submit a new application for a license or permit.
How long does it take to process a TABC license renewal?
Renewal process times can vary, which is why we suggest submitting early. Depending on if you renew online, or via mail, will also change the amount of time it takes as hard copy renewals tend to take the TABC several months to process. Renewals take approximately 30 days to renew your TABC permit online, but may take as long as 50 days.
How do I know the renewal fee for the TABC license?
In addition to applying for renewal, you will also need to pay your renewal fees. You can check the fee amount using the TABC Fee Chart.
Please note that in addition to the fee, there may be additional city or county charges as well which must be paid ahead of your application.
You should contact your local tax assessor, city and county, during the state renewal process. The local government entities will be able to inform you of your local fees and taxes. Once these are paid, you may begin the TABC renewal.
How long does it take to process a TABC MB license renewal?
If your license is for Mixed Beverages (MB), the most popular of the on-premises retailer permits, then you may be wondering if the renewal is different. However, it is essentially the same and the renewal should take the same amount of time.
Please note, though, that it is always best to check with someone to ensure that your renewal will be completed in time and not go past its expiration date, as otherwise a late fee of $100 will be imposed and your business operations will be disrupted.
How to get started on my TABC renewal?
If you are unsure where to begin, or want to make sure that the application is as smooth and efficient as possible, contact Monshaugen & Van Huff, P.C. We are happy to bring our years of liquor license experience to your renewal process.