Georgia Alcohol Related Laws and Regulations

Where to Buy Alcohol
Retail package stores sell spirits in Georgia while grocery and convenience stores carry wine and beer. Depending on the township, liquor stores are usually closed on Sundays, but most bars and restaurants can still sell alcohol. Alcohol can usually be served from 6 a.m. to midnight.

Legal Age for Drinking/Serving Alcohol
At 21, a person can legally consume alcohol. At 18, a person can serve alcohol in a restaurant or bar.

Open Container Laws
If a container of alcohol has been previously opened, it must be transported in the trunk of a vehicle.

BAC Limits
If a person tests (breath, blood, or urine) with a BAC (blood-alcohol content) of .08 or higher, they are considered ‘per se intoxicated’ and can be arrested and convicted of DUI (driving under the influence) without further evidence.

‘Zero tolerance laws’ attempt to deter underage drivers from drinking. If a driver under the legal age of 21 tests with a BAC level of .02 percent or higher, they face DUI penalties.

If a driver does not comply with an officer’s request to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test to determine their level of intoxication when they are suspected of being under the influence, they can face penalties due to ‘implied consent laws.’ Their refusal can result in the mandatory suspension of their driver’s license for up to one year. If a driver has a BAC of .15 percent above the legal limit of .08 percent, they face stricter punishment.

When a driver is convicted of DUI, the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) can suspend a driver’s license for one year for the first offense, three years for the second, and five years for the third.

After a driver’s second DUI conviction, the courts can install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. At four convictions, the driver’s car can be confiscated. Alcohol education, treatment and assessment are also penalty options for offenders.