Is alcohol legal in West Virginia?

Q: Is alcohol legal in West Virginia?

Alcohol in West Virginia is legal only under specific conditions. West Virginia is a modified control state: spirits are sold through the state-controlled system at privately operated retail "agency" liquor stores, with the state setting prices and distribution, while beer and wine are sold in grocery and convenience stores.

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WEST VIRGINIA · ALCOHOL

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Conditional: West Virginia is a modified control state: spirits are sold through the state-controlled system at privately operated retail "agency" liquor stores, with the state setting prices and distribution, while beer and wine are sold in grocery and convenience stores.

Conditional

Summary

West Virginia is a modified control state: spirits are sold through the state-controlled system at privately operated retail "agency" liquor stores, with the state setting prices and distribution, while beer and wine are sold in grocery and convenience stores.

Source: code.wvlegislature.gov → · Updated August 2, 2026

West Virginia Alcohol topics

DUI / DWI Limits in West Virginia →Info
In West Virginia the per se limit for adults is 0.08% blood alcohol (W. Va. Code 17C-5-2), and drivers under 21 are held to a zero-tolerance limit of 0.02%.
Open Container Law in West Virginia →Conditional
West Virginia law restricts only drinking, by the driver and by passengers; carrying an open or previously opened container in the passenger area is generally allowed, unlike in most states.
Sunday Alcohol Sales in West Virginia →Conditional
West Virginia permits Sunday package liquor sales starting at 6 a.m. under a 2021 law, but there are no spirits sales between midnight and 6 a.m. or on Easter and Christmas.
Last Call Hours in West Virginia →Info
In West Virginia, last call is 2 a.m., though club licenses in cities like Charleston allow 3 a.m.
Beer & Wine in Grocery Stores in West Virginia →Permitted
In West Virginia, groceries and convenience stores sell beer and wine, and spirits are sold privately — though not at groceries on Sunday.
Where to Buy Alcohol in West Virginia →Conditional
West Virginia is a modified control state: spirits are sold through the state-controlled system at privately operated retail "agency" liquor stores, with the state setting prices and distribution, while beer and wine are sold in grocery and convenience stores.

Other West Virginia laws

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