Becoming TABC certified is essential to working in the alcohol industry. Failing to comply with TABC certification rules can result in fines and harm your business reputation.
TABC training is an easy-to-understand process that takes just a few hours to complete. The training will teach you to avoid selling to minors and intoxicated individuals, ensuring that your business follows all state laws.
What is a TABC License?
A TABC license is an official state certification that you have completed the training required by Texas law to serve alcohol in the hospitality industry. It is also called a bartending license, allowing you to work at a restaurant, bar, or brewpub.
The TABC certification course teaches you the laws and regulations in Texas regarding alcohol service, including how to prevent underage drinking and identify intoxicated patrons. It is a class A misdemeanor to make alcohol available to minors, and you could be fined up to $4,000 if you are convicted.
Many TABC certification courses are offered online, making it easy to take them on time. You can log in and out as you like, but the training will pick up where you left off each time you return to the site. Some TABC certification sites are mobile-friendly, so you can complete the activity on your smartphone or tablet.
How to Apply for a TABC License
Getting your TABC license is easy. All you have to do is take an approved TABC certification course and pass the exam. The course teaches responsible alcohol service and covers topics like checking ID, handling intoxicated customers, and state laws. You can take the course in person or online.
The next step is deciding which type of TABC license you need for your business. There are a variety of permits, from brewer’s and liquor stores to caterers and package stores. You can see a complete list of available TABC licenses and permits here.
Once you have decided what license or permit you need, you must apply for it with your local city, county, and state. The city, county & comptroller must sign off on the application before the state will approve it.
You also need to submit a business packet. This is a series of forms that solicits ownership information, including detailed personal information about the primary investors.
What is a TABC Permit?
A TABC license is a legal document that grants you the authority to sell alcohol in Texas. It allows you to purchase, sell and store alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption. Depending on the type of business you want to open, you may need multiple types of TABC permits.
Before you apply for a TABC permit, you must complete a Seller-Server certification course. This quick online course teaches industry workers how to ID customers, recognize signs of intoxication and more. It’s a great way to keep your employees and customers safe from drunk driving accidents, DUIs and more.
You can begin the permit application process after completing the TABC course. We’ll help you collect the required information and file your application with the county clerk and the state comptroller for approval. We can also help you get the required signage for your location. Contact us to learn more.
How to Maintain a TABC Permit
To maintain a TABC permit, alcohol sellers and servers must complete a state-approved server education program and follow local, county, and state liquor laws. They must also be sure that they are not selling or serving alcoholic beverages to minors and address any issues, complaints, or violations promptly and professionally.
Business owners must also ensure that their alcohol licenses and permits are current and up to date by submitting the proper forms and fees to TABC. They can check the status of their application online using the Public Inquiry System, which is updated daily.
TABC offers an online hub for managing licenses and permits called AIMS, which makes it easy to submit most applications and notifications. Learn how to use AIMS by visiting the How To Use AIMS page. Businesses applying for a new license can also find instructions on submitting a state renewal or original application through AIMS.
