Texas closes DPS offices, and now you can order a beer with that taco delivery
Texas Department of Public Safety driver license offices throughout the state have been closed on order from Gov. Greg Abbott late Wednesday.
The governor also issued a waiver that allows restaurants to deliver alcoholic beverages along with food purchases to customers, including beer, wine and mixed drinks.
The temporary DPS office closures, however, don’t apply to those seeking an initial commercial driver license (CDL). DPS offices providing commercial license testing will only remain open, allowing an exception for commercial drivers to continue shipping goods across the state.
Visits are by appointment only, and can be scheduled by emailing cdlappointments@dps.texas.gov.
The governor previously delayed the expiration dates for driver’s licenses, CDLs and other identification documents in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Our commercial drivers are essential to the consistent flow of goods throughout the state, and we will continue to ensure those seeking an initial CDL can do so,” Abbott said in a release. “Closing driver license offices to those not seeking an initial CDL is another step the state is taking to encourage social distancing in our communities.”
Abbott also directed the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) to waive provisions allowing manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of alcoholic beverages to repurchase or sell back unopened product. This waiver allows distributors and manufacturers to buy back excess inventory from restaurants, bars, and clubs affected by cancellations because of the outbreak.
The waivers are in response to the financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that has disproportionately affected the hospitality industry.
“The State of Texas is committed to supporting retailers, restaurants, and their employees,” said Governor Abbott. “These waivers will allow restaurants to provide enhanced delivery options to consumers during this temporary period of social distancing.”
This story was originally published March 18, 2020 at 10:14 PM with the headline "Texas closes DPS offices, and now you can order a beer with that taco delivery."
