AB-32 – Limousine Alcohol Service Rules

What limousine operators must know about alcohol service and licensing requirements

What you need to know

• Providing alcohol without a license is illegal
• “Complimentary” alcohol is still considered a sale
• There is no license available for this activity
• Violations may result in criminal penalties

Who This Applies To

This guidance applies to:

• Limousine operators in Maryland
• Businesses providing transportation services to clients

Core Requirement

Maryland law prohibits:

• The sale of alcoholic beverages without a license

Providing alcohol as part of a service:

• Is considered a sale, even if labeled “complimentary”

Why This Is Considered a Sale

If alcohol is included in:

• A service fee
• A contract price

It is assumed:

• The cost of alcohol is built into the price

This makes it a regulated sale under Maryland law.

Licensing Limitation

• There is currently no license available that allows limousine operators to provide alcohol to passengers

Limited Exception (BYOB)

Customers may:

• Bring their own alcohol

Conditions:

• Alcohol must be purchased by the customer
• Must remain under the customer’s control

This may still be subject to:

• Open container laws
• Local regulations

Enforcement and Penalties

Providing alcohol without a license:

• Is a criminal offense

Penalties may include:

• Fines up to $1,000
• Imprisonment up to 2 years
• Or both

What This Means for Businesses

Limousine operators should:

• Not provide alcohol to passengers under any circumstance
• Remove alcohol service from business offerings
• Inform clients about BYOB limitations
• Ensure all services comply with Maryland law

Important Notes

• “Complimentary” does not change legal responsibility
• Violations may result in criminal charges
• Enforcement action may be taken if violations are identified

Need Help?

For questions about alcohol laws, contact the ATCC: 410-260-7314 ext. 2 or [email protected]