The Motor-fuel, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Unit of the Revenue Administration Division is responsible for monitoring the manufacture, storage, transportation, sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages and tobacco in Maryland, while collecting state taxes on beer, wine, distilled spirits, cigarettes and other tobacco products. The Unit issues licenses and permits, maintains automated credit control information for the alcohol industry, and promotes fair trade practices in accordance with the law. The Unit also provides online services to verify licenses and permits and accept electronic payments. The only legal source for a Maryland consumer to buy alcoholic beverages is from a licensed Maryland retailer. Licensed retailers in Maryland must also purchase their alcoholic beverage products from licensed wholesalers. Transporting or selling alcoholic beverages in Maryland without the proper license is illegal. It is also illegal for Maryland consumers to have alcoholic beverages sent to them by out-of-state suppliers through the mail or over the Internet. For information about obtaining hard-to-find wines and other alcohol products, contact the Unit at 410-260-7131 to learn about legal distribution alternatives. See also Out-of-State Wines and Direct Wine Sellers Online Services |
