Need wine for tonight's dinner but don't have time for a store run? 

Instacart has you covered. 

Instacart alcohol delivery makes it possible to get your favorite beer, wine, or spirits delivered to your doorstep without a store run.

I've put together this complete guide covering everything you need to know – from availability and laws to fees, ID checks, and comparisons with other services. 

According to GroceryDive, Instacart's alcohol delivery now reaches 85+ million households (nearly 75% of US homes), showing just how popular and widespread this service has become.

The pandemic changed the game for alcohol delivery, with many states loosening restrictions to allow services like Instacart to bring your favorite drinks directly to you. 

It's a convenient option that's here to stay, and I'll walk you through exactly how to use it.

Where Is Instacart Alcohol Delivery Available?

State-by-State Availability

Instacart currently delivers alcohol in 26+ states plus Washington D.C. according to Instacart’s official website. 

These states include:

• Arizona

• California

• Connecticut

• Florida

• Georgia

• Hawaii

• Idaho

• Illinois

• Indiana

• Iowa

• Kentucky

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• Minnesota

• Missouri

• Nebraska

• New Hampshire

• New Jersey

• New York

• North Carolina

• Ohio

• Oregon

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Virginia

• Washington

• Washington D.C.

Notable states where Instacart does not deliver alcohol include Utah, Pennsylvania, Alabama, and Mississippi (though the latter is pending legislation). 

These restrictions primarily come down to state laws that prohibit alcohol delivery by third-party services.

Why Availability Varies

Alcohol delivery is governed by state and local laws, creating a patchwork of regulations across the country. 

Some states have fully embraced alcohol delivery, while others restrict or prohibit it entirely.

The COVID-19 pandemic pushed many states to reconsider their position on alcohol delivery. 

Georgia and Oklahoma changed laws during this period to allow home alcohol delivery, showing an evolving landscape for these services.

Looking forward, more states are considering changes. States like Kansas and Missouri are considering new laws to legalize alcohol delivery as of 2024. 

The trend is moving toward greater availability, but it's always best to check your local laws or simply check the Instacart app to see if alcohol delivery is available in your area.

Instacart's Alcohol Delivery Policies & How It Works

How to Order Alcohol on Instacart

Ordering alcohol through Instacart is straightforward, though it does have a few extra steps compared to regular grocery orders:

1. Select a Store: Open the Instacart app and look for the Alcohol category. This option will only appear if you're in an eligible area. You can choose from liquor stores or grocery stores like Publix, Kroger, Costco, and more that sell alcohol in your region

2. Add to Cart: Browse through beer, wine, and spirits offerings and add what you want to your cart. Keep in mind that you can't add alcohol via the "special request" feature – you can only order what's listed in the store's inventory

3. Checkout Requirements: When you check out, you'll need to input your date of birth to confirm you're of legal drinking age. The app will also display any extra fees, including the alcohol service fee.

4. Receiving the Order: This is where alcohol orders differ most from regular grocery deliveries. An adult 21+ must be present with a valid ID when the order arrives. The shopper cannot leave alcohol unattended, even if you selected "leave at door" for your delivery preference. Someone must be home to accept the delivery and show ID.

Age Verification & ID Check Process

Instacart takes age verification seriously, as required by law:

• Valid ID Required: You must be 21+ with a valid government-issued photo ID at delivery. Acceptable forms include driver's licenses, passports, and military IDs. Expired IDs are not accepted, but the good news is that the name on the order doesn't have to match the ID – any adult 21+ at the address can accept the delivery.

• Scanning Technology: The delivery person will scan both the front and back of your ID using the Instacart app. This scan verifies your age and the ID's authenticity. For privacy protection, no personal data is stored on the shopper's device.

• Signature Requirements: Some states also require a signature upon delivery in addition to the ID scan, depending on local regulations.

• Contactless ID Verification: During COVID, Instacart introduced a process where customers could scan their own ID on their phone and sign, allowing the shopper to verify from a safe distance.

• Failed ID Verification: If you don't have a proper ID or are underage, the alcohol cannot be delivered. The items will be removed from your order and refunded, though you may still be charged fees like the delivery fee, tip, and any bottle deposits.

Instacart's Rules & Restrictions for Alcohol Orders

Instacart enforces several rules to comply with alcohol regulations:

• No Delivery to Minors or Intoxicated Persons: It's illegal to deliver to anyone under 21 or visibly intoxicated. Shoppers will refuse delivery if the recipient appears to be underage or drunk.

• No Unattended Alcohol Deliveries: Alcohol cannot be left at the door without ID verification. Someone must physically meet the driver to show ID and accept the delivery.

• Order Limits: Some states have quantity limits on alcohol deliveries. For instance, Alabama's law limits per-customer daily deliveries to approximately 120 beers, 12 bottles of wine, or 12 bottles of liquor. Instacart itself has a 400-pound weight limit on alcohol orders, though this rarely becomes an issue for typical orders.

• Delivery Location Restrictions: Instacart cannot deliver alcohol to dry towns, certain campuses, or specific business addresses. Deliveries are limited to residences and businesses intended as delivery endpoints – not to other stores or restaurants.
  Substitution Policy: If an alcohol item is out of stock, Instacart shoppers can only replace it with another alcohol item. They can't swap beer for chips or other groceries. If there's no approved replacement, the item will be refunded.

Stores, Selection, and Quality

Which Retailers Offer Alcohol on Instacart

Instacart partners with many grocery chains and liquor stores for alcohol delivery. Major participants include:

• Grocery stores: Costco, Walmart, Kroger, Publix, Albertsons

• Warehouse clubs: Sam's Club, BJ's

• Liquor retailers: BevMo!, Total Wine, Binny's, and more

Not every store on Instacart sells alcohol – it depends on local licenses. 

The Instacart app automatically shows an "Alcohol" category only if stores in your area offer it.

Instacart continues to expand its partnerships. For example, they recently partnered with Meijer to expand alcohol delivery throughout the Midwest.

Alcohol Selection and Product Variety

When it comes to selection, Instacart essentially offers whatever the partner store carries:

• Beer & Cider: Domestic, craft, imported beers, hard seltzers, ciders, and more

• Wine: Red, white, rosé, sparkling, from budget bottles to premium selections

• Spirits: Vodka, whiskey, rum, tequila, gin, liqueurs, and more (where permitted by law)

In some states, grocery stores can't sell hard liquor, but you can still get spirits from dedicated liquor stores through Instacart. The app will show you only what's legally available in your area.

You can also order non-alcoholic mixers, sodas, ice, and garnishes in the same order from the same store, making it convenient to get everything you need for your home bar.

Quality is generally maintained well – shoppers handle alcohol carefully, and Instacart will refund you if something arrives damaged, such as broken seals or cracked bottles.

Instacart's data shows interesting trends in alcohol shopping: wine is especially popular during holidays (it was the first item added in 7% of holiday orders), and ready-to-drink canned cocktails have surged in popularity.

Fees, Pricing, and Tipping for Alcohol Orders

Does Alcohol Delivery Cost More?

Let's break down what you'll pay when ordering alcohol through Instacart:

• Item Price Markup: In many cases, Instacart prices (including alcohol) are slightly higher than in-store prices. Some retailers charge the same as in-store, but others have a markup (often around 15% or more). You can check the "Pricing Policy" note on the Instacart app for each store to see their approach.
  Delivery Fee: The standard Instacart delivery fee (typically $3.99 for orders $35+; higher for smaller orders or faster delivery) applies to alcohol orders as well. If you have Instacart+ (formerly Express), the delivery fee might be waived for orders over $35.

• Service Fees: Instacart charges a separate alcohol service fee on orders containing alcohol. This fee usually ranges from $2–$10 depending on your order total. The tier breakdown typically looks like this: ~$2 for small orders, up to $10 for orders over $110. This fee covers the extra steps and compliance requirements for alcohol delivery. Even Instacart+ members still pay this alcohol service fee.

• Tips: While there's no mandatory extra tip for alcohol, these orders often involve extra effort from shoppers (checking ID, potentially heavier items). Shoppers do see tip amounts, and a good tip (5-20% or $5-$10 for smaller orders) can ensure better service.

• Taxes & Deposits: Local alcohol taxes and bottle deposit fees (for recyclable containers in some states) will be added where applicable.

Price Comparison – Store vs. Instacart

Is it more expensive than buying in person? 

Generally, yes. 

For example, a six-pack that costs $9.99 in-store might be around $11.49 on Instacart due to markup, plus the delivery and service fees.

You're paying a premium for convenience, but promotions or free delivery offers can sometimes offset this cost. 

Instacart occasionally runs free delivery or discount promotions on alcohol, especially around holidays or with certain brands.

If you order frequently (both groceries and alcohol), the Instacart+ membership at $99/year can save you money on delivery fees and slightly lower service fees. 

Just remember that it doesn't remove the alcohol service fee.

How Do Returns/Issues Work for Alcohol?

If something goes wrong with your order:

• If a bottle arrives broken or the wrong item was delivered, Instacart's policy is typically to refund or re-deliver the item.

• No returns of alcohol are generally allowed by law once accepted (except for quality issues). If the order couldn't be delivered (e.g., no ID), the alcohol is returned to the store, and you'll be refunded for those items (minus fees).

Delivery Times & Comparing the Experience

How Fast Is Alcohol Delivered?

Instacart alcohol delivery is usually same-day, often within a couple of hours. 

It can even be as fast as 1 hour depending on the store and demand. Like other Instacart orders, you can schedule a later time slot if desired.

But remember, alcohol delivery is subject to legal sale hours. 

If your state doesn't allow alcohol sales after 10pm, you won't get a late-night alcohol delivery. 

Most deliveries occur during store hours and within legal cutoffs (often midnight at the latest in many areas).

For example, in Texas, where law stops alcohol sales after 9pm, Instacart won't deliver beyond that time. In Alabama, alcohol delivery is only allowed during the same hours as in-store alcohol sales.

Otherwise, the speed is similar to grocery orders. 

Instacart batches alcohol items with other groceries if both are ordered together. 

Just be aware that the ID check may add a minute or two at drop-off (not a big delay, but different from a purely contactless grocery delivery).

Customer Experiences & Tips

Many customers appreciate the convenience of alcohol delivery, especially for heavy or bulk orders like cases of beer or wine for events. It saves carrying weight and ensures safe transport.

Customers often note that Instacart shoppers are diligent with alcohol orders – one shopper shared that "no one is ever unhappy to see an Instacart alcohol delivery – there's usually a celebration involved!"

There are some common pain points to be aware of:

• Missed Deliveries: If you're not home at the scheduled time, the order can't be left. Schedule a delivery window when you'll definitely be home and consider tracking the delivery progress in-app.

• Address Issues: Alcohol cannot be delivered to a public campus dorm or certain workplaces – ensure your delivery address is eligible.

• Substitutions: To avoid disappointment, use Instacart's chat to approve or suggest replacements for out-of-stock items.

• ID Readiness: Have your ID ready when the courier arrives to make the process smooth and quick.

Overall, customer feedback is positive when the rules are understood – Instacart's service is reliable for alcohol delivery as long as you plan accordingly.

Behind the Scenes – The Shopper Perspective

Shopper Training & Certification

Not every Instacart shopper can immediately deliver alcohol – they must pass an Alcohol Delivery Certification quiz/course on the app.

This ensures they know the laws around checking ID, situations requiring refusal, and other legal requirements.

When you order alcohol, only certified shoppers will accept your batch. This is good for customers: you're getting a trained delivery person who takes compliance seriously.

Shoppers often view alcohol orders as valuable opportunities since they can be larger baskets with higher tip potential. 

Some even seek out these orders; a certified shopper might have an edge in getting more batches.

Instacart vs Other Alcohol Delivery Options

Instacart isn't the only player in the alcohol delivery game. 

If you're wondering whether to use Drizly, DoorDash, or another service instead, here's how they compare.

Instacart vs. Drizly

Drizly is a popular alcohol-only delivery service (now owned by Uber). Here's how it stacks up against Instacart:

• Coverage: Drizly operates in over 30 states via local liquor stores. Instacart is in ~26 states via grocery and liquor stores. They may serve different states depending on partnerships.

• Selection: Drizly specializes in alcohol so often has a very wide selection of beer, wine, and liquor from multiple stores in your area. Instacart's selection is tied to whichever single store you order from in one batch, but since it partners with big retailers, the selection is usually excellent too. If you need obscure craft beverages, Drizly might have an edge due to its focus.

• Convenience Factor: Instacart offers the convenience of mixing alcohol with groceries and other items in one order, which Drizly doesn't do.

• Pricing/Fees: Drizly typically charges a delivery fee (and sometimes higher prices from liquor stores, plus service fees). Instacart's fees work similarly – they are somewhat comparable. Drizly's alcohol prices can sometimes be closer to in-store because it's direct from liquor retailers, but it varies by store.

• Speed: Both offer similar on-demand delivery times (often 60 minutes or so). Drizly exclusively deals with local inventory for immediate delivery, while Instacart can schedule or bundle with groceries.

• Age check: Both require 21+ ID on delivery – the process is similar, though Drizly drivers might use a different app scanner.

Bottom line: Instacart is great if you want alcohol alongside groceries or prefer big-chain retailers; Drizly is tailored for alcohol-only orders and can have specialty choices.

Instacart vs. DoorDash / Uber Eats

Many food delivery apps have entered alcohol delivery too. 

Here's how DoorDash alcohol delivery policies compare with Instacart:

• DoorDash now delivers alcohol from restaurants, stores, and convenience shops in about 20 states plus DC. Uber Eats partners with local liquor stores in many cities (and Uber owns Drizly).

• Ordering experience: If you're already using DoorDash for takeout, adding a six-pack to your order from a restaurant or convenience store is possible. However, the selection might be limited to what that restaurant/store offers (e.g., a restaurant might only offer beer/wine, not a full liquor selection). Instacart lets you shop from a full store inventory like a supermarket or liquor superstore, which is typically broader.

• ID Verification: DoorDash often requires customers to upload an ID photo in-app when ordering, then the driver verifies upon delivery. This is a slightly different flow from Instacart's, but all services are strict about verification.

• Fees: DoorDash and Uber charge delivery and service fees too. There's no huge cost difference; it might come down to membership (e.g., DashPass vs Instacart+). If you already pay for DashPass, you might save on fees with DoorDash alcohol deliveries from eligible merchants.

• Speed & availability: DoorDash can be quick, especially if combining with restaurant orders (deliver booze with your takeout). But not all restaurants allow alcohol takeout. Instacart's advantage is working with retailers specifically selling alcohol, likely ensuring a more comprehensive selection and potentially larger quantities.

Why Instacart?

What makes Instacart stand out for alcohol delivery?

• One-stop shopping: You can get alcohol alongside groceries and other household items in one delivery (no need for separate orders).

• Large Retailer Partnerships: You'll have access to big stores (often better pricing on alcohol than small liquor boutiques and potential for loyalty deals or club-size bottles).

• Trust and Safety: Instacart's established process and training for drivers is robust. They've been delivering alcohol since 2013 and have refined their system over time.

Instacart also works with regulators to expand service responsibly, showing commitment to safe and legal alcohol delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Instacart leave alcohol at my door if I'm not home?

No. Instacart never leaves alcohol unattended. Someone 21+ must be present to show ID. If you're not home, the order will be returned and you may be charged fees. 

Always schedule a time when you can meet the courier.

What if I don't have my ID when the delivery comes?

The driver cannot legally hand over the alcohol. 

They will have to take the alcohol back for a refund of the item price. 

You might still pay the delivery fee and potentially a restocking fee. Always have your valid ID ready.

Does Instacart deliver alcohol in my area?

Instacart currently delivers alcohol in many states (see list above). 

To check your specific address, open the app and see if the Alcohol category is available, or enter your ZIP code on Instacart's website. 

If alcohol is not available, it likely isn't legal in your area yet.

Do I need to be 21 to order alcohol on Instacart, or just to receive it?

The account holder ordering should be 21+. Instacart will ask for your birthdate at checkout. 

The person receiving the delivery must be 21+ (with ID). It can be someone other than the account holder as long as they are an adult at the address.

Are Instacart alcohol prices higher than in-store?

In many cases, yes, there is a markup (often around 15% higher) plus the added fees we discussed. 

Some stores have same-as-store pricing (Instacart will usually label those as "Everyday Store Prices"). Check each retailer's pricing policy on their Instacart storefront.

Do I have to tip more for alcohol delivery?

There's no obligation to tip more than you would for a regular delivery, but keep in mind alcohol orders can be heavier or require extra time (ID check). 

It's kind to reward good service with a solid tip. Instacart drivers do not get any of the "service fee" – that is separate, so tipping is the best way to directly compensate your courier.

What happens if an item I want is out of stock?

Your shopper will try to communicate a replacement. 

It's best to pre-select backup options in the app for alcohol items due to limited substitutes (e.g., choose a second-choice wine in case the first is unavailable). 

They can only replace with a similar alcohol item. If no replacement is approved, you'll be refunded for that item.

Can Instacart deliver kegs or large quantities?

Usually not kegs because of weight and store limitations, and large quantities might be split into multiple orders or limited by law. 

Some states have specific quantity limits per delivery.

Conclusion

Instacart has made alcohol delivery simple, legal, and convenient – a real game-changer for home entertaining or stocking up without the last-minute store run. 

The service handles all the compliance details while giving you access to a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits from local retailers.

If Instacart delivers alcohol in your area, it's worth giving the service a try. 

Just remember the core requirements – be home with your ID for delivery, know there might be a small alcohol service fee, and enjoy the convenience of having drinks delivered alongside your groceries or on their own.

If you're interested in comparing more grocery delivery service options or learning about when Instacart stops delivering, check out our other guides.