Is alcohol legal in Delaware?

Q: Is alcohol legal in Delaware?

Alcohol in Delaware is legal only under specific conditions. Delaware is not a control state, but spirits and wine are restricted: beer, wine and spirits are all sold only at licensed package stores (liquor stores). Grocery and convenience stores generally cannot sell alcohol, apart from limited taproom and brewery exceptions.

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DELAWARE · ALCOHOL

Alcohol

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Conditional: Delaware is not a control state, but spirits and wine are restricted: beer, wine and spirits are all sold only at licensed package stores (liquor stores).

Conditional

Summary

Delaware is not a control state, but spirits and wine are restricted: beer, wine and spirits are all sold only at licensed package stores (liquor stores). Grocery and convenience stores generally cannot sell alcohol, apart from limited taproom and brewery exceptions.

Source: oabcc.delaware.gov → · Updated July 23, 2026

Delaware Alcohol topics

DUI / DWI Limits in Delaware →Info
In Delaware the DUI limit for adults is 0.08% blood alcohol, or 0.04% for commercial drivers, and the limit for drivers under 21 is 0.02%. (21 Del. C. 4177.)
Open Container Law in Delaware →Info
Delaware has no general open-container law — it does not prohibit an open container in a vehicle's passenger area, and passengers 21 and older may drink alcohol in a moving vehicle.
Sunday Alcohol Sales in Delaware →Permitted
Delaware permits Sunday off-premises sales statewide, and package (liquor) stores sell on Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. and Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. Larger municipalities of 50,000 or more may limit Sunday sales to 4 hours.
Last Call Hours in Delaware →Info
In Delaware, last call is 1 a.m., and premises must clear drinks by 2 a.m.
Beer & Wine in Grocery Stores in Delaware →Restricted
Delaware does not allow beer, wine or spirits to be sold in groceries or convenience stores — all three are sold only in licensed package stores.
Where to Buy Alcohol in Delaware →Conditional
Delaware is not a control state, but spirits and wine are restricted: beer, wine and spirits are all sold only at licensed package stores (liquor stores).

Other Delaware laws

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