If you’re in Arizona and planning to buy alcohol, it’s important to know when it’s allowed and when it isn’t. Whether you’re stocking up for a barbecue, heading out for a night with friends, or picking up a bottle of wine for dinner, the state has specific rules in place. These rules apply statewide, from Phoenix to Flagstaff, and they cover everything from beer to hard liquor.
This article explains all the key details, including what time you can buy alcohol in Arizona, what changes on Sundays, and the consequences of breaking the law.
General Alcohol Sales Hours
In Arizona, alcohol can be sold by licensed retailers between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. every day. This includes grocery stores, gas stations, and liquor stores. If you’re wondering what time does Arizona stop selling alcohol, the answer is 2:00 a.m., regardless of the day. The same schedule applies whether you’re buying beer, wine, or spirits. For bars and restaurants, the serving hours are also 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
These rules make it fairly simple to remember. Arizona doesn’t restrict sales heavily like some other states. However, there are small adjustments for Sunday, which we’ll cover in the next section.
Alcohol Sales on Sundays
A key difference in Arizona’s alcohol laws comes into play on Sundays. While most of the week allows sales starting at 6:00 a.m., on Sundays, alcohol sales start at 10:00 a.m. This applies to both stores and restaurants. If you’re searching for what time can you buy alcohol in Arizona on Sunday, this is the rule to keep in mind.
Once 10:00 a.m. hits, the same 2:00 a.m. cutoff applies, giving you a 16-hour window to make your purchase. The change may seem small, but it’s good to be aware of if you’re planning an early event or buying alcohol for brunch.
What Time Do They Stop Selling Alcohol in Arizona?
Arizona law requires alcohol sales to stop by 2:00 a.m. for both retailers and on-premise sellers like bars. That means if you’re looking to buy drinks late at night, you’ll need to do so before the cutoff. Many venues will call last orders around 1:30 a.m. to stay in compliance. This applies to all days, including weekends.
If you’re wondering how late can you buy alcohol in Arizona, the answer is the same across the board—until 2:00 a.m.
When Does Arizona Start Selling Alcohol?
Alcohol sales legally start at 6:00 a.m., Monday through Saturday. For those asking how early can you buy alcohol in Arizona, this is the earliest time allowed by law. On Sundays, as mentioned, the start time shifts to 10:00 a.m.
This rule applies across most of the state. However, some smaller municipalities or tribal areas may have slight variations based on local ordinances. Always check locally if you’re unsure.
Do Bars and Restaurants Follow the Same Rules?
Yes. Bars, lounges, and restaurants also operate under the same alcohol hours as retail outlets. They can begin serving at 6:00 a.m. and must stop by 2:00 a.m. These rules include beer, wine, and cocktails. If you’re out late or travel to Arizona, you’ll typically hear a last call between 1:30 and 1:45 a.m.
So, if you’re asking what time do bars close in Arizona or what time do they stop serving alcohol in Arizona, the consistent answer is 2:00 a.m. daily.
Can You Buy Alcohol on Holidays?
Arizona allows alcohol sales on most public holidays. This includes New Year’s Eve, the Fourth of July, and even Thanksgiving. The same rules apply: alcohol can be purchased between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. (or 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Sundays). Stores that choose to close for the day do so voluntarily.
Liquor Stores and Convenience Stores
Retailers that sell alcohol, such as liquor stores and supermarkets, are also bound by the same hours. However, store hours may vary. So if you’re asking what time do liquor stores close in Arizona, keep in mind that many choose to close before 2:00 a.m. even though they are legally allowed to stay open until then.
Grocery stores that carry beer and wine often stop selling alcohol at the checkout counters just before 2:00 a.m. as well. If you’re heading to a store late at night, call ahead or look up their posted hours.
Special Event Permits and Exceptions
Some events or venues may have special permits allowing them to serve alcohol at specific times. These permits are issued by the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control. They might apply to festivals, charity events, or private gatherings. However, even these permits usually follow the standard cutoff times. Alcohol is not allowed to be served between 2:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. under any circumstances.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
Violating alcohol laws in Arizona can lead to serious consequences. For businesses, that could mean fines, temporary license suspension, or permanent revocation. For individuals, underage drinking or purchasing alcohol after hours can result in fines or even criminal charges.
If you’re caught providing alcohol to a minor, the penalties are especially severe. This can include up to $2,500 in fines, jail time, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. It’s important to stay informed and make legal, responsible choices.
Alcohol Laws and Age Requirements
You must be 21 years old to buy, possess, or consume alcohol in Arizona. Retailers are required to check ID. Using a fake ID, lending your ID to someone underage, or attempting to purchase alcohol when under 21 are all criminal offenses.
For those searching when can you buy alcohol in Arizona, it always comes back to this legal age requirement. No ID, no sale.
Final Thoughts
Arizona makes it easy to understand when alcohol can be sold. With general hours set from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Sundays, there’s plenty of time to shop or enjoy drinks out. Just make sure you carry valid ID and make purchases within the legal timeframe. If you’re in a smaller community or on tribal land, double-check the local rules.