Austin Business Licensing & Operations: Secondhand Dealers Rules (2026)

Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1956 governs every Austin secondhand dealer in jewelry, electronics, tools, instruments, and crafted precious metals. Dealers must register with APD, photograph or thumbprint sellers, record government identification, and submit electronic transaction reports daily through the LeadsOnline system. A seven-day hold applies to gold and silver, and longer holds may apply if APD issues a hold notice on suspected stolen goods. Out-of-state purchases and pawn redemptions follow distinct rules. Records must be retained for at least one year. Antique dealers, charitable thrift stores, and farmers selling produce are exempt. Austin's Pawn and Secondhand Detail audits dealers and serves hold notices in active theft investigations.