PermitDueHow Long Does It Take to Get a Liquor License in Texas?
March 11, 2026 · Daniel Amar·Last updated: March 11, 2026
Expect 45 to 60 days from the TABC
When I was researching permit timelines across all 50 states we cover, Texas stood out as one of the faster ones — but "faster" still means 45 to 60 days. That's long enough to torpedo your opening timeline if you don't plan ahead.
The actual time depends on your license type, your location, and whether your application hits any snags. A clean beer-and-wine permit in a wet county can close in 30 days. A mixed beverage permit in a recently-wet area with a protest? You're looking at 90 days or more.
Wet, dry, and moist: check your county first
Before you even think about applying, confirm your county (or precinct) allows alcohol sales. Texas has a patchwork of wet, dry, and moist jurisdictions:
- Wet: All alcohol sales allowed. Most major cities (Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio) are in wet areas.
- Dry: No alcohol sales at all. You can't get a liquor license here, period.
- Moist: Some sales allowed. Maybe beer and wine but not spirits. Maybe on-premises but not off-premises. The rules vary by precinct.
If you're in a dry or moist area, you may need to petition for a local option election before you can apply. That process alone takes months. Check the TABC's local option status tool before signing a lease.
Common license types and their timelines
| License type | What it covers | Cost (2-year term) | Typical processing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed Beverage (MB) | Bars, nightclubs. Liquor, beer, wine on-premises | $6,281 | 45-60 days |
| Mixed Beverage Restaurant (RM) | Restaurants. Requires 50%+ food sales | $5,531 | 45-60 days |
| Beer Retail Dealer On-Premises (BE) | Beer only, on-premises | $225 | 30-45 days |
| Wine and Beer Retailer (BG) | Beer and wine, on-premises | $900 | 30-45 days |
| Package Store (P) | Liquor store, off-premises | $3,750 | 45-60 days |
The TABC application process
1. File your application
You can apply online through the TABC's portal. The application includes personal information for all owners, your business structure, premises details, and the filing fee. Unlike California, you don't have to show up in person.
2. Post public notice (2 weeks)
The TABC requires you to post a notice sign at your business location for 14 days. You also need to publish notice in a local newspaper for two consecutive weeks. This is the protest window.
3. Background check (2-4 weeks)
The TABC checks criminal history, financial standing, and prior TABC violations for every owner and officer. Clean records move fast. A DWI on your record doesn't automatically disqualify you, but it triggers additional review.
4. Premises inspection
A TABC agent visits your location to verify the premises match your application. They check the physical layout, signage, and safety features.
5. Approval and issuance
If there are no protests and no issues, the TABC issues your license. You can start serving immediately once the license is in hand.
What slows things down?
- Protests: Anyone can protest your application during the public notice period. In some neighborhoods, especially near residential areas, schools, or churches, protests are common. A protest triggers a hearing at the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH), which can add 60 to 120 days.
- Location issues: The TABC has distance restrictions. In many jurisdictions, you can't hold a liquor license within 300 feet of a church, school, or hospital. Measurements are from property line to property line, not door to door.
- Application errors: Incomplete or inaccurate applications get kicked back. This is avoidable. Take your time and check everything before filing.
- Prior violations: If you or a co-owner had a previous TABC license that was revoked or suspended, expect a lot more scrutiny.
Texas offers temporary permits
Unlike some states, Texas lets you apply for a temporary permit to start serving while your full application is processed. The TABC can issue a temporary permit within a few days if your application is complete and there are no protests. This is a lifesaver for businesses that need to open on schedule.
Other permits you'll need alongside your TABC license
A TABC license is necessary but not sufficient. You also need a Food and Beverage Certificate ($381 from the TABC), a city business license, a county health permit, a fire inspection, and a sales tax permit from the Comptroller. See our full bar permits guide for the complete list, or read about the restaurant vs bar classification if you're not sure which license type you actually need.
And once you have all your permits, don't miss the renewal — the TABC gives you 90 days past expiration before voiding your license entirely.
Run the free permit checker to see every permit your Texas business needs. With the actual fees, agencies, and timelines for your specific city and county.