If you’re planning to sell or serve alcohol in Fort Worth, Texas, you must comply with regulations set by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Whether you’re opening a bar, running a hotel, organizing events, or operating a retail business, securing the right alcohol permit is a must. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the process, costs, bonds, and local requirements involved in getting a TABC license in Fort Worth.

For assistance in securing your permit quickly and correctly, visit our Fort Worth TABC services page.

Why You Need a TABC License in Fort Worth

Selling alcohol in Texas without a valid TABC license is illegal. In Fort Worth, you must have both state and local approval to serve, sell, or distribute alcohol. The license helps ensure that your business is operating legally and responsibly while meeting all local zoning and compliance rules.

Whether you’re running a bar, restaurant, club, hotel, or hosting a special event, you’ll need to apply for specific TABC permits in Fort Worth to stay compliant with both TABC and local city regulations.

Types of TABC Permits in Fort Worth

Depending on the nature of your business or event, you’ll need to apply for one or more of the following permit types:

• Mixed Beverage Permit (MB): For on-premise sale of mixed drinks (common for bars and restaurants).
• Wine and Beer Retailer’s Permit (BG): For serving beer and wine on or off the premises.
• Package Store Permit (P): For off-premise alcohol sales, such as liquor stores.
• Catering or Event Permits: For temporary events serving alcohol, often used for festivals or private functions.

For a full list and details, check out our Fort Worth alcohol permits guide.

How to Get a Liquor License in Fort Worth

Applying for a liquor license can seem complex, but with the right process, it becomes manageable. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to get a liquor license in Fort Worth:

Step 1: Identify the Right Permit

Determine the exact type of license or permit that suits your business. For example, a restaurant will require different permits than a hotel or nightclub.

Step 2: Verify Zoning and Local Requirements

Before applying to TABC, Fort Worth requires applicants to complete:

• Zoning approval
• Distance verification (usually from schools, churches, or residential zones)

This step ensures your location meets city code for alcohol sales.

Step 3: Collect Documentation

You’ll need:

• Business formation documents (LLC, Corp, etc.)
• Proof of control over property (lease or deed)
• Personal and business IDs
• Floor plans
• Sales tax ID
• Certificate of occupancy

Step 4: Submit the Application

Once the documents are ready:

• File the application through the Alcohol Industry Management System (AIMS) or in paper format.
• Submit local approval forms to the City of Fort Worth.
• Pay all necessary fees.

Some licenses may also require you to publish a 60-day public notice.

Step 5: Obtain a TABC Bond (If Required)

Depending on the license type, you may need a TABC bond in Fort Worth. This is a surety bond that guarantees your compliance with Texas alcohol laws. Bond amounts vary, and some permits cannot be issued without it.

Step 6: Await Approval

Processing usually takes 30 to 60 days, depending on the completeness of your application and the type of license.

Liquor License Cost in Fort Worth

The liquor license cost in Fort Worth can vary widely based on license type, location, and whether your permit requires a bond. Below is a general estimate of licensing costs:

Actual prices can vary. For a custom quote, visit our Fort Worth alcohol license pricing page.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some frequent issues that delay the approval process:

• Applying for the wrong type of TABC permit
• Overlooking local zoning and distance requirements
• Submitting incomplete or incorrect paperwork
• Failing to purchase a required TABC bond in Fort Worth
• Ignoring the 60-day public notice requirement for some licenses

Avoid these problems by working with a licensing consultant who knows Fort Worth’s local rules and the TABC process.

Why Choose a Licensing Consultant?

The process for getting Fort Worth alcohol permits involves navigating both state and city regulations. With a consultant:

• You save time on paperwork
• Get help identifying the right permit
• Stay on top of deadlines and compliance
• Avoid zoning and bonding errors
• Increase chances of fast approval

At Texas Alcohol Consulting, we manage your full application process—from forms to zoning to bonding—so you can focus on your business. Get started today by visiting our Fort Worth licensing page.

Final Thoughts

If you plan to serve alcohol in Fort Worth, securing the proper TABC license in Fort Worth is not optional—it’s essential. Knowing the types of TABC permits in Fort Worth, understanding the need for a TABC bond, and estimating the liquor license cost in Fort Worth will help you make informed business decisions.

Don’t risk delays or denials. Partner with a team that understands how to get your business licensed quickly and legally. Visit Texas Alcohol Consulting – Fort Worth to begin your application today.