Distribution
How is liquor sold in Alberta?
Learn about liquor in Alberta, the privatization of liquor, AGLC’s role, liquor markup, legislation and handbooks, and liquor regulations in other provinces.
Liquor licences
AGLC liquor licences are available online.
The Online Licensing Portal gives those looking for liquor, cannabis and public special event licences a self-service platform for new licence applications, reissued and cancelled licences, and allows users to make payments directly online.
I bought a Private Special Event Liquor Licence and I need to make an edit to it. How can I change it?
To make a change to the Max Attendance number or Liquor Service Times, please contact 1-800-272-8876. For all other changes, you will need to purchase a new Private Special Event Liquor Licence.
Education & public awareness
What is AGLC doing to prevent minors from accessing liquor?
Age-verification processes are established for sales both at the time of purchase and delivery.
Individuals working under the authority of a liquor licence must be certified with ProServe Liquor Staff Training. This training helps workers understand how to sell liquor responsibly according to law and in a way that keeps customers and others safe from alcohol-related harms.
AGLC’s Inspections program will include information for the licensee on checking for suitable identification, conducting checks to ensure the licensee requests ID from anyone who appears under 25 and investigating all complaints against a licensee.
Where can Albertans go to get more information about enjoying alcohol responsibly?
In Alberta, we all have a role to play in being socially responsible.
At AGLC, being responsible means providing policies, regulations, program tools and resources that educate and inform Albertans drinking responsibly. We want every Albertan who enjoys alcohol, to use their DrinkSense.
Visit DrinkSense for information and tips on how to enjoy alcohol in moderation and for ways to reduce alcohol-related harms. Additionally, various agencies such as Health Canada and Alberta Health Services have excellent resources available to the public.
What is a Dry9?
No amount of alcohol is proven safe while pregnant.
Over 9,000 pregnant people in Alberta have signed up to do a Dry9. Join our community. Expectant parents and their supporters can sign up for Dry9 and commit to an alcohol-free pregnancy. You'll receive a free t-shirt and monthly tips to make the journey smoother.
Enforcement
What level of enforcement does AGLC have regarding liquor in Alberta?
Licensees and registrants are expected to comply with the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act, the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulations and AGLC board policies for activities authorized under a licence or registration. Refer to the Administrative Sanction Guideline for Violations table to view a guideline for sanctions the Regulatory Services Division may impose on a liquor licensee or registrant.
Consumers
The best bars, bar none.
Best Bar None is a voluntary accreditation program recognizing excellence in Alberta’s hospitality sector. Look for the BBN symbol as your sign that an establishment is serious about public safety and customer service.
Where can I find information on liquor providers?
We have a liquor service provider database that allows you to search by name or location for a liquor service provider.
Where can I find liquor products in Alberta?
In Alberta, there are many options for Albertans to enjoy their favourite liquor products—from having access to more than 35,000 liquor products, to being able to search for any products through Liquor Connect. We work with local and external suppliers to bring you the items you love.
Want more information? Here’s more on liquor products in Alberta.