Alaska Alcohol Laws
Posted by Tamara
Today, let’s take a look at Alaska alcohol laws. Alaska’s laws on alcoholic beverages are less restrictive than many other states. This is especially true considering Alaska’s lack of an open container law.
In Alaska, alcoholic beverages are sold in private liquor stores, not state-owned establishments. Beer and wine are generally available in grocery and convenience stores, while hard liquor is not. Liquor stores must have off-premise licenses only, meaning it is illegal to consume alcohol on the property. It is legal to sell alcohol at off-premise stores from 8 am to 5 am, seven days per week. In addition, bars and other on-premise licensees must stop serving alcohol at 5 am each day.
Despite federal pressure, Alaska is one of the few remaining states in the union without a strong open container law. In Alaska, it is perfectly legal for passengers to drink alcohol, as long as the driver is not imbibing or impaired.
In Alaska, drivers are considered to be driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content (BAC) above .08. A blood alcohol content over the legal limit is considered sufficient proof of violation in a court of law. Both of these laws are consistent with other states. In Alaska, the penalties for refusing to take a breathalyzer test are greater than the penalties for driving under the influence. DUI is a felony after the third conviction.
The legal drinking age in Alaska, as in other states, is 21. The minimum age to work as a server in a restaurant that sells alcoholic beverages in Alaska is 21. The minimum age to work as a bartender in a restaurant or bar is 21. Under Alaska law, an individual must be 21 to handle, transport or sell beer, wine or spirits in a liquor store or off-premises establishment.
Please bear in mind that alcohol sales and consumption are subject to local laws as well as state law. There are 83 dry towns and villages in Alaska, where no alcohol is sold. There may be additional restrictions in your city or town, regarding the consumption of alcohol.
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