The alcohol laws of Oklahoma comprehensively limit and regulate the sale of alcohol in Oklahoma. Much like its neighboring state of Kansas (see Alcohol laws of Kansas), Oklahoma’s approach to alcohol is quite strict. Oklahoma's approach contrasts sharply with that of another neighboring state, Missouri (see Alcohol laws of Missouri), which has some of the nation’s least restrictive alcohol control laws.
Any beverage containing more than 3.2% ethanol by weight or 4% alcohol by volume, that is, most liquors, wines, and typical beer, may only be sold in licensed liquor stores at room temperature. However, pending the ballot results for Oklahoma Question 792 on Election Day in November 2016 may allow any establishment with an alcohol license to sell full strength beer as well as wine under refrigeration.
To circumvent the alcohol content restrictions, beer distributors in Oklahoma primarily sell low-point beer. This allows the beer to be sold not only in convenience stores and supermarkets, but in refrigerated form. The law defines low-point beer as any beverage containing between 0.5% and 3.2% ethanol by weight.
Minors under the age of 21 are not permitted to possess or purchase alcohol; however, consumption in a “private setting” is not prohibited by Oklahoma law. Minors may not have a blood alcohol level of more than .02%.
Under Oklahoma law, it is a felony to provide alcoholic beverages to the "mentally deficient," the intoxicated, and persons under 21 years of age. Although low-point beer may not be sold where unclothed persons or persons with exposed private parts are present on the same premises, alcohol sales are available by the glass if permitted by the county. Conviction of this crime is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500 for each offense.
It is illegal to sell packaged liquor (off-premises sales) on Sundays. Sales also are prohibited on Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Low-point beer for consumption off-premises may not be sold between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.