Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Oklahoma was among the last states with the 3.2 alcohol rule.
The 3.2 alcohol rule is one of the most confusing and restricting alcohol laws, where you cannot buy higher alcohol content in grocery and convenience stores.
So, during my trip, I made it a point to ask locals about their insights after the end of that restricting rule. And that opens another fundamental question: What time can you buy beer in Oklahoma?
When Do Liquor Stores In Oklahoma Start Selling Beer?
Liquor or package stores in Oklahoma start selling beer from 8 in the morning until midnight, Monday through Saturday.
Like convenience or grocery stores, liquor stores can finally sell refrigerated beer or wine to their customers on Sundays. For comparison, small breweries and wineries may sell beer or wine from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
“Man, being reasonable, must get drunk; the best of life is but intoxication.” – Lord Byron, Poet
Grocery and convenience stores (even those attached to gas stations) can sell alcohol from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. Oklahoma bars can also sell alcohol until 2 a.m. from 8 a.m.
Understanding Oklahoma Beer Laws
Oklahoma’s intricate beer laws have been through many changes. For instance, until 2018, Oklahoma still had a lot of dry counties, prohibiting sales of alcohol in most municipalities and establishments.
Residents voted against this ban during an election, ending the long history of dry counties in Oklahoma.
In 2020, residents in seven counties, including Cleveland, Kingfisher, Tulsa, and Washington, voted to allow Sunday sales of alcohol for liquor stores.
What Time Can Gas Stations Sell Beer?
Oklahoma gas stations sell beer and wine from 6 a.m. until 2 a.m., but they can’t sell liquor. The beer has an alcohol limit of 9% ABV, while the wine is up to 15% ABV [1].
However, the selling hours depend on the operating hours of the gas station and local alcohol laws. For instance, a gas station we passed through in Oklahoma City closed at around 8 p.m., so they only sell alcohol up to that time.
Does Oklahoma Have 6-Point Beer?
No, Oklahoma does not have a 6-point beer. It is a confusing topic in Oklahoma, so I questioned many business owners’ and locals’ take on the 6-point beer.
It was a concept Oklahomans developed because of their strict drinking laws before, only allowing them to sell beer with 3.2% ABW (alcohol by weight) or “low-point beer.”
And so many wished to purchase alcohol like a 6-point beer that other states have. But if you’re going to convert it, a 6-point beer is approximately 4.7% ABW, so it does not differ so much from 3.2% ABW.
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Walmart’s Beer Sales In Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, the Walmart we visited opens at 6 a.m., and the sale of beer and wine starts at the same time.
“In Oklahoma, the golden hour isn’t just at sunset – it’s when you can finally buy your favorite beer.” – Liquor Laboratory
Although wines and liquors or flavored mixed drinks are also good companions, drinking laws for beers have been more lenient than other alcoholic drinks.
Walking With Beer: Oklahoma’s Rules
Oklahoma residents, 21 years old and older, can walk around the neighborhood with beer under certain conditions.
Some outdoor events or festivals allowed attendees to walk around with beer or wine with the proper licenses and permits.
Oklahoma bars and restaurants near a stadium can also sell wine and beer from 8 a.m. until midnight any day of the week.
Can You Drink Beer In A Car?
No, you can not drink beer in a car in Oklahoma. It may cause legal consequences when you have open containers with alcoholic drinks inside your car, especially if it is within your reach [2].
Unless, of course, you have no intention of taking out your car later. But for the most part, you may pay for a fine or days of community service if caught.
FAQs Related to What time can you buy beer in Oklahoma?
What time can you buy beer in Oklahoma?
Beer can be purchased in Oklahoma from retail outlets, such as grocery stores and convenience stores, between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m.
Are there any restrictions on the days of the week for buying beer in Oklahoma?
No, there are no restrictions on the days of the week for purchasing beer in Oklahoma. Beer sales are permitted every day, including Sundays and holidays.
Can you buy beer from bars or restaurants at any time in Oklahoma?
Yes, bars and restaurants in Oklahoma can sell beer for on-premises consumption until 2:00 a.m. However, the availability of alcohol for on-premises consumption may vary by establishment.
Are there any age restrictions for purchasing beer in Oklahoma?
Yes, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase beer in Oklahoma. Proper identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, is typically required to verify age.
Can you purchase beer from gas stations in Oklahoma?
Yes, beer is commonly sold at gas stations and convenience stores in Oklahoma. These establishments are subject to the same regulations regarding hours of sale as other retail outlets.
Can you buy beer from liquor stores in Oklahoma?
Yes, beer is available for purchase from liquor stores in Oklahoma during their operating hours. However, liquor stores may have different hours of operation compared to other retail outlets.
Are there penalties for violating beer sales laws in Oklahoma?
Yes, violating beer sales laws in Oklahoma can result in penalties for both the seller and the purchaser. These penalties may include fines, legal repercussions, or loss of alcohol sales privileges.
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Final Verdict
From allowing Sunday alcohol sales at liquor or package stores to approving liquor sales in all Oklahoma counties, Oklahoma law has seen one of the most drastic changes.
Grocery or convenience stores can sell beers any day of the week. Meanwhile, liquor or packaged stores can sell alcohol from 8 a.m. until midnight, Monday through Saturday.
With no dry counties, you can buy alcohol almost anywhere.
References:
- https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/state/2018/05/10/did-you-know-things-to-know-about-oklahomas-new-liquor-laws/60525607007/#
- https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/dui/open-container-law/
