Lone Star Liquor Licensing Company, LLC is a Houston-based licensing and permitting service conveniently located just west of downtown Houston. We specialize in helping businesses navigate the complex process of obtaining, renewing, and maintaining the licenses and permits required to sell, serve, distribute, manufacture, or otherwise handle alcoholic beverages.
From retail liquor licenses to wholesale and manufacturing-level permits, our team provides knowledgeable guidance through the requirements that apply to your business. We understand that every business is different, and the permitting process can vary depending on your location, business model, ownership structure, and the type of alcohol-related activity involved.
Our expertise extends well beyond state and federal alcohol licenses. We also assist with a wide range of related business permits, including:
Whether you are opening a bar, restaurant, liquor store, convenience store, brewery, winery, distillery, event venue, or another alcohol-related business, Lone Star Liquor Licensing is here to help simplify the process.
With practical experience, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, Lone Star Liquor Licensing works to make the permitting process as smooth and efficient as possible — so you can stay focused on building and operating your business.
Gerald Franklin was the owner and operator of a well-known licensing agency, of the same name, from 1967 until selling the company in 2016. Some folks are just not meant to “hang up their spurs,” so Mr. Franklin partnered with Keith Coleman to open Lone Star Liquor Licensing Company, LLC in 2020.
Keith Coleman is a former police officer and later became the Regional Commander of the Gulf Coast Region of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Mr. Coleman has many years of experience in dealing with liquor licenses from both sides of the fence. He also regularly performs consulting services for several law firms that need expert witness testimony in dram shop cases.
After 28 years of experience in the alcohol beverage industry, Mrs. Martinez is an expert with wholesale and retail permits. Virgie can assist any Spanish speakers and handles new applications, renewals, tobacco, and lottery licenses. When she is not working hard, she is cheering the Dallas Cowboys to victory!
Mrs. Thuong has over 20 years of experience in the alcohol beverage industry. Thuong speaks both English and Vietnamese. She is responsible for all mixed beverage, beer, and wine licenses for restaurants, convenience stores, and bars.
Mr. Lemus joined the company in 2024 and brings over 30 years of experience in permitting and working with government agencies. With a background in architecture and the hospitality industry, he helps clients better understand their business needs while expediting permits and renewals. He can also assist Spanish-speaking clients with their permitting needs.
Christopher Lemus specializes in assisting customers with original and renewal permit applications. He has extensive business experience and is capable of supporting clients across a wide range of permitting and operational needs.
Hello, my name is Richard Rivas! A University of Houston graduate with multiple years of hands-on experience in the alcohol industry. I specialize in guiding businesses through the full spectrum of alcohol permits, from manufacturing to retail. Whether you’re just starting your business or looking to expand, I’m here to make the process seamless and straightforward.
I’m a long-time native Houstonian who loves our city and all it has to offer.
I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Education and later earned a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction.
After forty years of teaching in public schools throughout the Houston area, I was offered an exciting opportunity to transition into a new field with a local alcohol licensing company.
In April 2020, I joined Lone Star Liquor Licensing LLC at its inception, becoming one of the original staff members.
We’re a small company with a large reach, serving clients across Texas — from major metropolitan areas to growing cities and towns, and even the most rural communities.
I look forward to assisting new and existing clients, handling renewals, and supporting organizational and administrative tasks within our office.
Most importantly, I truly value working for an ethical company that treats its clients fairly and honestly.
She spent over 20 years in the banking industry, mastering the art of details, deadlines, and keeping complex processes running smoothly. Later, she shifted gears and returned to school while managing a full-time role with Harris County, navigating high-pressure election cycles. It was there she learned that organization and precision aren’t optional — they’re survival skills.
Fueled by coffee, deadlines, and a good laugh... Sara Garcia-Vanegas didn’t take the straight path into liquor licensing — and that’s exactly what makes her such an asset to Lone Star Liquor Licensing.
Today, Sara brings that same sharp focus and extensive experience to helping Texas businesses navigate the liquor licensing process with clarity, efficiency, and just the right touch of humor.
A recent graduate of the University of Houston–Downtown with a Bachelor’s in Communications, Sara has a talent for breaking down complex TABC rules into plain English, Español, or the occasional witty metaphor — whatever gets the job done and gets clients licensed.
