What’s the Difference Between a TABC Certification and a TABC License?

The Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission (TABC) is a government agency that most Texas business owners selling alcohol will be familiar with. The agency is responsible for regulating the alcoholic beverage industry, including sales, taxes, importation, manufacturing, and more.

While you might be familiar with who they are and what they do, do you know the difference between a TABC certification and a TABC license? You can find this information (and more) below.

What is TABC Certification in Texas?

TABC certification refers to a certificate that can provide helpful education for employees working in alcohol sales or service in Texas. While it’s not a legal requirement, it’s generally preferred by employers.

An approved TABC course provider can provide fast and easy certification content online for employees to study at their own pace. They can learn about relevant Texas alcohol sale and service laws, how to identify intoxicated people, intervention techniques, how to prevent sales to minors, and more.

Most standout TABC course providers offer an easy online platform for TABC certification with no timers and a final example with multiple-choice questions. Industry workers can be TABC-certified and ready to provide safe alcohol sales and service in no time!

What is a Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission License?

While TABC certification and a TABC license may be used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. A TABC license refers to what businesses need to get to obtain a permit so they can operate legally in Texas.

The type of TABC license Texas businesses receive can depend on their line of work. There are many different liquor permit options in manufacturing, distribution, retail, ‘other,’ and subordinate sectors. For example, you might apply for a wholesaler’s permit with the TABC if your business distributes distilled spirits and wine in Texas. If your business sells distilled spirits, wine, and malt beverages for on-premises consumption, you may request a mixed beverages permit.

How to Get TABC Certification in Texas

You might know what TABC certification is and how it differs from a TABC license, but do you know how to get it? When you approach reputable certification providers, it’s easy! You can just follow the steps below:

1. Visit the website of a trusted online TABC certificate provider
2. Enroll in the advertised TABC certification course
3. Study the course content in an easy-to-follow online platform
4. Pass the multiple-choice question exam with a score of at least 70% (two chances to pass)
5. Download and/or print your certificate instantly – it’s valid for 2 years

How to Get a TABC License in Texas

It’s fast and easy for alcohol-related business employees to obtain their TABC certification, but the process for obtaining a TABC license for employers is a little more involved. Most employers take these steps:

1. Visit the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission License website
2. Make an account through the Alcohol Industry Management System (AIMS) hub
3. Read through the list of things you’ll need to complete your application
4. Apply for a new license or permit in AIMS

After you’ve applied for your license or permit through AIMs, the TABC will review your application and contact you if they require more information. It can take 30-35 days for the TABC to issue a new license.

Enroll In a TABC Certification Course in Texas at TABC Pronto Today

If you sell or serve alcohol in Texas, your employer may require you to receive your TABC certificate. The good news is that it’s easy! Enroll in TABC Pronto’s 100% online TABC certification course with no course timers. Alongside TABC certification, we also offer the Texas Food Handlers Card and bundle deals for both. You may be on your way to safer alcohol service and sales in no time!