Can I sell alcohol to someone over 18 in Delaware?

Full question:

I hold a license to sell liquor in Delaware. Students from a nearby school often come to my place for drink. Can I sell alcohol to a person above 18 years in Delaware?

  • Category: Minors
  • Subcategory: Age of Majority
  • Date:
  • State: Delaware

Answer:

No, you cannot sell liquor to anyone under 21 years old in Delaware. While the age of majority is 18, which allows individuals to enter contracts and take legal actions, the law specifically prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages to those under 21.

The relevant law states that no person or licensee may sell alcoholic liquor to anyone who has not reached the age of 21 (Delaware Code 4 § 708). If a person under 21 presents valid identification that appears to confirm they are of legal drinking age, it may serve as a defense in a prosecution for selling to a minor.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In Delaware, you must be at least 18 years old to work at a liquor store. However, individuals under 21 cannot sell alcohol directly. They can assist in other roles but must be supervised by someone who is of legal drinking age.