You may think you’ll learn everything you need to know about liquor laws when obtaining your TABC license in Dallas, TX. However, there are some things you should be aware of before even beginning the process. By reading up a bit on Texas alcohol laws, you can make obtaining your TABC certification a faster and easier process.

To-Go Beverages

While many popular cities, such as New Orleans, make a big profit off of selling to-go beverages for patrons to walk the blocks of bars and clubs holding a daiquiri, Texas is not about this carefree attitude toward alcohol. In fact, there are specific rules regarding leaving the premises of an alcohol-serving establishment with an alcoholic beverage.

In fact, the laws were recently updated to accommodate for sporting events and venues that may have multiple vendors selling alcoholic beverages. In very specific cases only, such as inside a stadium, can someone walk around the stadium with an open container—and that’s only if all the vendors inside the stadium have the same license and permits, and the alcohol does not leave the premises. Otherwise, for the typical restaurant or establishment, to-go beverages are a big no-go.

Public Intoxication Responsibility

Before obtaining your TABC license in Dallas, TX, you should know that reeling in your drinking patrons is the responsibility of the restaurant that is serving them. Even if they have a sober party member as their “designated driver,” you’re still responsible for the behavior of the drinking guests. It is against the law to be publicly intoxicated, which is defined as appearing so intoxicated that you might be a danger to yourself or others, but it is also against the law to serve alcohol to someone who is already intoxicated. You’ll have to get good at knowing the signs of intoxication and not be afraid to refuse a sale and cut people off.

Underage Drinkers

You’ll need to be prepared to check IDs and refuse selling alcohol to anyone under 21. An expired license is just as problematic as an underage license. You may be aware that it is legal for a minor to possess and consume alcohol when in the presence of a parent or guardian, but you still can’t sell alcohol directly to the minor, which is always illegal.

Also, it’s important to note that you have the right to have stricter rules at your establishment than the state laws regarding alcohol. You can prohibit minors from drinking alcohol even if their guardian is present and wants to allow it. When it comes to sellers, they can possess alcohol and serve it even if under the legal age. However, they can’t purchase it to consume themselves.

If you’re preparing to obtain your TABC license in Dallas, TX, contact our consultants at LaBarba Permit Service. We understand that the process can be confusing and frustrating, and for the past 50 years, we’ve been working to take time and stress out of the process for our clients. Obtaining your TABC license in Dallas, TX should not be the most time-consuming part of opening your establishment. We’ll cut through the red tape so you can focus on your business.