Texas Lotto Permit: Expert Application Services for Lottery Retailers

Adding a Texas Lotto permit (officially known as a Ticket Sales License) to your business is a proven way to increase foot traffic and generate additional commission revenue. However, the Texas Lottery Commission (TLC) maintains a rigorous application process that includes criminal background checks, credit evaluations, and strict financial bonding requirements.

At Gerald Franklin Agency (GFA), we specialize in the “All-in-One” licensing model. Whether you are a convenience store owner in Houston or a large-scale retailer in Dallas, we manage the entire Lottery licensing lifecycle. From navigating the Lottery Services Portal (LSP) to coordinating your mandatory electronic fingerprinting, GFA ensures your application is filed correctly to avoid costly delays.

 

Who is eligible for a Texas lottery license?

The State of Texas holds lottery retailers to high ethical and financial standards. To qualify for a ticket sales license in 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Requirement: Applicants and all listed officers must be at least 18 years old.
• Financial Integrity: You must demonstrate a clean credit history. If the TLC determines a potential for monetary loss to the state, a Surety Bond or Letter of Credit will be required.
• Criminal History: You are ineligible if you have been convicted of a felony, gambling-related offense, or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude within the last 10 years.
• Tax Status: You must be current on all state taxes, including those managed by the Texas Comptroller and the TABC.

 

The 2026 lottery application process

The Lottery Commission has streamlined the process through the Lottery Services Portal (LSP), but the physical requirements remain intensive. GFA provides a turn-key service to handle the following:

1. Entity Verification: We ensure your business formation matches your Texas Taxpayer ID and Federal EIN.
2. EFT Authorization: Lottery retailers must establish a dedicated bank account for Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT). We help coordinate the voided check and authorization forms required for the weekly “sweep” of ticket sales.
3. Electronic Fingerprinting: Once your application is submitted, you must provide fingerprints via an authorized IdentoGO location. GFA coordinates your appointment and ensures the TLC receives your background results promptly.
4. Premises Inspection: A Lottery Sales Representative (LSR) will visit your site to determine equipment placement and ensure the location meets all accessibility and security standards.

 

Required fees and financial guarantees

In 2026, the state fees for a Texas Lottery license are structured as follows:

Fee Type	Amount	Notes
Original Application	$125.00	Includes the $100 fee + $25 initial bond payment.
Additional Locations	$50.00	Per location under the same Tax ID.
Renewal Fee	$15.00	Required every two years.
Adding an Officer	$25.00	Required when ownership structure changes.

The “Lottery Retailer Bond”

Unlike traditional insurance, the Lottery Surety Bond is a guarantee to the Texas Comptroller. If your credit score does not meet the state’s minimum threshold, GFA—as a specialized bonding agency—can provide the necessary surety bond to ensure your application is approved.

 

Why integrate your Lotto Permit with GFA?

Most lottery retailers also hold TABC Alcohol Permits and Texas Tobacco Licenses. Managing these separate expiration dates and compliance rules is a full-time job.

• Unified Compliance: We track your Lotto, Liquor, and Tobacco renewals in one central system.
• The “Inside Advantage”: Our team understands the intersection of these agencies. For example, certain TABC violations can put your Lottery license at risk. We provide the legal and regulatory shield to protect all your permits.
• Equipment Coordination: We act as your liaison for the installation of the ticket-dispensing terminal and the delivery of your initial ticket “stock.”

 

Texas lotto permit: frequently asked questions

Can I sell lottery tickets if I have a Mixed Beverage Permit?

Generally, yes. However, if your establishment derives more than 30% of its gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption, you may face additional restrictions. GFA performs a “Sales Ratio Analysis” to ensure your business qualifies.

How long does it take to get a lottery license?

Once the application is filed and fingerprints are submitted, processing typically takes two to three weeks. Delays usually occur due to incomplete financial records or failed background checks—issues GFA resolves before we file.

Is the license transferable if I sell my business?

No. A Texas Lottery Ticket Sales License is non-transferable. If you buy an existing store, you must apply for a new license under your own Tax ID. GFA specializes in “Change of Ownership” fast-tracking to ensure no lapse in ticket sales.

Start Your Texas Lottery Application Today

Don’t let the paperwork hold back your business growth. Put the experience of Gerald Franklin Agency to work for you. We manage the applications, the bonds, and the background checks so you can focus on your customers.

Call Gerald Franklin Agency today to start your Texas Lotto permit application. We handle the hard work, so you can enjoy the rewards.