Last updated: August 20, 2025 (rules and fees can change—always confirm with your retailer or the AGCO).
Ontario has made it easier than ever to get beer, wine, and spirits delivered—whether from LCBO, The Beer Store, licensed grocery stores, or restaurants that sell alcohol with food. Below are clear answers to the most common questions consumers (and businesses) ask.
Quick basics
- Legal drinking age to receive a delivery: 19+ with valid government-issued photo ID that shows your birth date. Drivers will check if you appear under 25.
- Delivery hours: Generally permitted 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m., daily.
- Who can deliver:
- LCBO and other authorized retailers (e.g., The Beer Store, some grocery stores)
- Licensed restaurants/bars with food
- Licensed third-party delivery services acting for a retailer or restaurant
FAQ
1) Do I have to show ID at the door?
Yes. The person accepting the order must be 19 or older and prepared to show valid, government-issued photo ID that includes a birth date. If you look under 25, expect to be carded.
2) Can a driver refuse to hand over my order?
Absolutely. It’s illegal to supply alcohol to anyone under 19 or who appears intoxicated. If the driver can’t verify age or sobriety, they must refuse the delivery.
3) What are the legal hours for alcohol delivery?
Most alcohol deliveries in Ontario are allowed between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. Hours for in-store sales or on-premise service may differ.
4) Can restaurants deliver cocktails, beer, or wine?
Yes—with food. Alcohol must be sold with food for takeout/delivery and packaged/transported according to provincial rules.
5) Can I use apps like Uber Eats for alcohol?
Yes. Third-party platforms can deliver alcohol if they and the partnering business are properly licensed and follow ID and delivery rules.
6) What if I’m not home?
Alcohol can’t be left unattended. If no eligible recipient is available, the package is typically redirected or a notice is left with pickup or re-delivery instructions.
7) How long does home delivery take and what does it cost?
Delivery times vary by retailer, address, and order size—urban areas are typically faster than rural. Fees and minimums vary and are shown at checkout.
8) Who sets the rules for alcohol delivery in Ontario?
The framework is set by Ontario’s Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 and its regulations, administered by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
9) Where can’t alcohol be delivered?
Delivery is restricted in certain circumstances (for example, certain healthcare or treatment facilities). Retailers and delivery services must follow these restrictions.
10) Can someone else at my address accept the order?
Anyone 19+ at the delivery address may accept, provided they present acceptable ID and aren’t intoxicated. Some retailers may require the named recipient—check your order details.
11) Do drivers need Smart Serve (for businesses)?
Anyone involved in the sale or delivery of alcohol for a licensee must complete responsible service training (e.g., Smart Serve). Licensees are responsible for compliance.
12) What happens to undeliverable orders?
Undeliverable alcohol is returned according to the retailer’s policy. Refunds or re-delivery depend on the business you ordered from.
Tips for smooth, compliant delivery
- Have ID ready at the door—especially if you’re 25 or under.
- Order within delivery hours (9 a.m.–11 p.m.).
- If ordering from restaurants, include food in your order.
- Skip the delivery if you’re visibly intoxicated; the driver must refuse.
For businesses: “Can I start delivering alcohol?”
- Ensure you have the appropriate licence (e.g., a liquor sales licence for restaurants or a Liquor Delivery Service licence if you deliver for a fee on behalf of customers/retailers).
- Implement staff training (Smart Serve), robust ID verification, and record-keeping.
- Follow provincial rules on hours, packaging/transport, and refusals (underage or intoxicated recipients).
Disclaimer
This article is for general information purposes, not legal advice. For precise obligations and the most current rules, confirm with the AGCO and your retailer’s policies.
