In Rhode Island, alcohol delivery is allowed only for Class A licensed retailers (liquor stores) who may deliver sealed alcoholic beverages to residential customers. Delivery must be made by employees or owners of the licensed establishment during legal business hours with a required ID check proving the recipient is over 21. However, restaurants and bars with Class B licenses cannot deliver alcohol as their licenses only permit on-premises consumption.
Rhode Island does not permit direct shipment of alcoholic beverages from out-of-state sellers to residents without a wholesaler license, and violations result in cease-and-desist orders. Also, deliveries must be accompanied by an adult signature.
Regarding happy hours, Rhode Island has specific regulations that prohibit certain practices such as serving alcohol at reduced prices for a limited time to avoid encouraging excessive consumption. The state closely regulates alcohol promotions and sales times to maintain responsible alcohol consumption and public safety.
Overall, Rhode Island’s alcohol laws around home delivery allow liquor stores but restrict deliveries by bars and restaurants, while happy hour sales are carefully controlled under state regulations to prevent abuse.
SOURCES
[1](https://dbr.ri.gov/real-estate-and-commercial-licensing/liquor/liquor-enforcement-and-compliance-frequently-asked)
[2](https://www.touchbistro.com/blog/alcohol-delivery-covid-19/)
[3](https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE3/3-4/3-4-8.HTM)
[4](https://www.ncsl.org/financial-services/direct-shipment-of-alcohol-state-statutes)
[5](https://www.gettips.com/blog/alcohol-delivery-laws)
