How Much Does It Cost to Open a Liquor Store in Texas? Understanding Texas Liquor License Costs and Processes

Liquor License Fees and Application

Residents are encouraged to register their vehicles in the county where they live. Complete data. To start your own liquor store in Texas, contact the TABC to set up a pre-licensing interview. Your responsibilities will be explained and you will receive the instructions and forms you will need to apply for your license.

The lowest price for a liquor license in Texas is $25 for a temporary auction license. Below are the fees for some other common licenses:

  • General distributor’s license to sell beer to distributors, retailers, and private clubs in Texas – $600.
  • Wine and beer retailer license to sell malt liquor, ale, wine, and beer containing less than 14% alcohol – $350.
  • Importer’s license to import beer from another state – $40.
  • See the full fees associated with different types of liquor licenses in Texas here.

The most expensive liquor license is $17,451 for a person with more than five business establishments who obtains a manufacturer’s license.

Profitability and Salary Expectations

As a liquor store owner, your salary can range from approximately $49,200 to $199,200 per year, based on the average profit numbers. Secure a Liquor Store License. Start by securing a liquor store license.

Liquor License Types and Steps to Ownership

There are almost 50 different types of liquor licenses in Texas. Before you apply for a liquor license, you first need to select your filing path. Texas offers three options for liquor license filing paths: retailer, manufacturer, or distributor.

Below are some common license fees:

  • General distributor’s license to sell beer: $600
  • Off-premises retailer license to sell beer: $120
  • Wine and beer retailer license: $350
  • Importer’s license to import beer: $40

Licenses expire after 2 years. Take a TABC course before applying.

Is a Liquor Store a Good Business to Start?

Opening a liquor store can be lucrative, with initial inventory costs averaging $50,000-$100,000. Liquor licenses typically cost around $1,000.

In Texas, liquor stores cannot sell on Sundays. When opening a liquor store, invest in an advanced POS system to help with inventory, age verification, promotions, and analytics.

The 5 steps to open a liquor store in Texas:

  1. Secure a liquor license
  2. Invest in a POS system
  3. Account for startup costs
  4. Market your offerings
  5. Comply with TABC criteria

Startup costs range from $50,000 to $250,000 for space, shelving, inventory, licenses, etc. Owning a liquor store can be a wise business decision as the industry is recession-proof.

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