Arizona is known for its outdoor lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, and growing tourism industry. Whether you’re planning a weekend celebration, stocking up for a gathering, or simply curious about state liquor laws, you may be wondering: What time do they stop selling alcohol in Arizona?
Arizona has straightforward statewide rules set by the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, and unlike many states, local cities and counties cannot change these hours. This makes the rules consistent no matter where you are in the state.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Retail Alcohol Sales (Beer, Wine, and Liquor)
Arizona allows grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations, and liquor shops to sell all types of alcohol—beer, wine, and spirits.
Retail Sale Hours (Statewide):
- Daily: 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
This means stores must stop selling alcohol exactly at 2:00 a.m., and they cannot resume sales until 6:00 a.m. the same morning.
There are no different rules for Sundays, so sale hours remain consistent seven days a week.
Arizona is one of the states without traditional “blue laws,” making alcohol access more predictable for consumers.
Bars, Restaurants, and Nightclubs
If you’re drinking at a bar or restaurant, the rules for serving alcohol are the same as retail guidelines.
On-Premise Service Hours:
- Daily: 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Bars must stop serving alcohol at 2:00 a.m. sharp, and many begin last call around 1:30–1:45 a.m. to comply with the law.
After 2:30 a.m., customers are not allowed to have alcohol in their possession in these establishments.
Alcohol Delivery Services
Arizona permits alcohol delivery through licensed retailers and delivery platforms. Deliveries follow the same legal time restrictions:
- Allowed between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m.
Delivery drivers must verify age with a valid ID at the door. No alcohol may be delivered outside these hours.
Special Event Permits
Events such as festivals, concerts, and private gatherings can apply for special liquor permits. However, even under special permits, alcohol cannot be sold or served:
- Outside the statewide 6 a.m.–2 a.m. window
Arizona does not offer extended-hours licenses.
Holiday Alcohol Sales
Arizona does not restrict alcohol sales on holidays. You can buy or be served alcohol during regular hours on:
- Christmas Day
- Thanksgiving
- New Year’s Day
- Independence Day
Any closures on those days are business decisions, not legal requirements.
Why These Rules Matter
Arizona’s alcohol laws are designed to be simple, uniform, and easy to follow. Because every city and county must follow the same schedule, residents and visitors don’t have to worry about different rules across the state. Whether you’re exploring Phoenix, Tucson, Scottsdale, Flagstaff, or rural areas, the alcohol cutoff time is always the same.
Understanding these laws ensures you stay within legal guidelines, avoid last-minute surprises, and plan your nights or celebrations without confusion.
