Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | January 27, 2026 | Criminal Defense
Have you ever tried to buy a car on a Sunday in Texas? Or, have you ever wondered why alcohol sales vary by day and location? The answer is that you have encountered the state’s “blue laws.”
These rules regulate when certain goods (including alcohol and motor vehicles) can be sold. While many blue laws have been relaxed over time, they still affect everyday purchases across Texas. The sections below discuss the blue laws in Texas.
What Are Blue Laws?
Blue laws originated in the American colonial era, with roots in Puritan religious practices aimed at preserving Sunday as a day of worship and rest. The term “blue law” is believed to have first appeared in 18th-century Connecticut, referring to strict moral codes printed on blue paper.
Over time, these laws evolved to regulate commercial activities on Sundays, especially the sale of alcohol. While many have been repealed, remnants remain in several states. Over the years, Texas has modernized many of these laws. However, some remain in place, with blue laws mainly affecting the sale of alcohol and vehicles, along with a few other regulated products.
The rules are enforced statewide but may vary depending on local ordinances and the type of business involved.
Alcohol Sales in Texas
Texas has specific laws governing when and where alcohol can be sold.
Grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations may sell beer and wine:
- Monday-Friday: 7:00 a.m. to midnight
- Saturday: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. (Sunday morning)
- Sunday: Noon to midnight
The Sunday restriction is one of the most recognizable blue law holdovers. Morning alcohol purchases before noon are prohibited in retail stores.
Liquor stores face stricter rules:
- Monday–Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
- Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day: Closed
Liquor stores are also required to close on certain holidays, regardless of the day of the week. These restrictions do not apply to beer or wine.
Delivery services must follow the same time restrictions as physical stores.
Restaurants and Bars
Restaurants and bars may serve alcohol earlier on Sundays if food is sold alongside drinks. This is called the “brunch exception,” which allows alcohol service starting at 10:00 a.m. rather than noon.
Local jurisdictions may impose additional limits, so availability can differ by city or county.
Buying a Car in Texas
Interestingly, Texas law prohibits car dealerships from operating on Sundays. Dealerships must also choose to close either Saturday or Sunday each weekend. Most choose Sunday, making it impossible to buy a new or used car from a dealer on that day.
Private vehicle sales between individuals are not restricted, but licensed dealerships cannot conduct sales or paperwork on Sundays. Other dealership operations, such as test drives and financing, are also prohibited.
The rule applies statewide and is strictly enforced.
Why Do These Rules Still Exist?
Blue laws have their place. Supporters of blue laws argue that the restrictions:
- Protect workers by guaranteeing a weekly day off
- Reduce impulsive or intoxicated purchasing
- Promote public safety (potentially avoiding driving while under the influence on Sundays)
- Preserve long-standing community traditions
Critics argue the laws are outdated, inconvenient, and economically limiting. Despite repeated legislative attempts, most of these restrictions remain in effect.
Contact the Fort Worth Criminal Defense Lawyers at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for Help Today
Texas blue laws still shape when alcohol can be sold and when dealerships can operate, which can catch people off guard. Planning ahead can help you avoid problems, especially on weekends and holidays.
If an alcohol-related situation leads to criminal charges—such as DWI or other offenses—Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers is ready to protect your rights. Contact our Fort Worth team today to discuss your case and next steps.
For more information, please contact the criminal defense law firm of Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a consultation. Give us a call at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:
We serve the surrounding areas of Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102