Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I purchase my alcoholic beverage inventory?

You must purchase all beverage alcohol from Montgomery County Department of Liquor Control. Customer Service (240-777-1901) is available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to take your order. If you prefer, you can FAX your order directly to Customer Service by dialing 240-777-1909.

T.O.P.S., the telephone ordering system, is available to process your order any time except from 5:30 AM to 6:00 AM and from 5:45 – 6:45 PM Monday through Friday. You can access T.O.P.S. by calling 240-777-1924 once your account is activated. Call Customer Service (240-777-1901) to set up your account.

Internet Ordering is available to process your order any time except from 5:45 – 6:45 PM Monday through Friday. Before you can use the system, you’ll need to activate your account by calling Customer Service at 240-777-1901.

To special order wine and spirits call 240-777-1920; and for beer call 240-777-1918. You can fax you special order to 240-777-1953.

When will my delivery come?

Your stock delivery will come on your regularly scheduled delivery day unless there is a holiday and then please check your newsletter. Special orders have varying turn-around times. Please check with Purchasing for an estimated time of arrival. Their number for wine and spirits inquiries is 240-777-1920; for stock beer is 240-777-1940; and for special order beer is 240-777-1918.

How long does it take to get my special order?

The time to get special order merchandise varies, because the Department of Liquor Control purchases from many different vendors in many different parts of the country and world. Many items take a week or two to get, while others take longer. Please contact special orders at 240-777-1920 (wine and spirits) or 240-777-1918 (beer) for more exact information on individual products.

What can I do if I miss my order day?

Call Customer Service at 240-777-1901 and tell them you missed your day. We will send your delivery as soon as we are able.

What are my payment options for merchandise?

You must pay by corporate or company check for your merchandise at the time of delivery unless you have an escrow account.

What is an escrow account?

An escrow account is an option when paying for beverage alcohol. The Department estimates your monthly sales in an amount equal to an estimated 45 days purchase. You draw against the deposit during the current month. You receive a monthly statement itemizing your purchases and requesting replenishment of the account. For more information, please contact Fred Pridemore at 240-777-1912 or at fred.pridemore@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Are personal checks or cash acceptable for delivery?

Corporate or company checks are accepted at time of delivery.

What is my liquor license worth?

It is impossible for the Department to assist you in determining the worth of your license, but it is important to note that if you choose to sell your establishment, your license does not automatically transfer. The new owner must apply for a transfer and should contact the Division of Licensure, Regulation and Education for additional information (240-777-1999).

How can I get a rule book?

Please contact the Division of Licensure, Regulation and Education at 240-777-1999 to purchase a copy of the rules.

How can I get an ID book?

One source for and ID Checking Guide is located at /redirect.asp?redirect=http://www.idcheckingguide.com. There telephone number is 1-800-227-8827. There may be other sources available. It is important to remember to get a recent copy as the information changes regularly.

How can I purchase a scanner (identification reader)?

A number of companies offer scanners or identification readers for purchase. We suggest you start by looking at the Board of License Commissioners website for information. Below is a quick link:
/Content/BLC/id_readers.asp.

Who can I contact for server training?

There are a number of approved server training courses. Please check the monthly newsletter for a list of approved courses.

Who do I contact to report a store or restaurant I think is violating the law?

You should contact the Division of Licensure, Regulation and Education at 240-777-1986 to report violations. If this is an emergency, dial 911.

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