Drink DirectAlberta Direct-to-Consumer Alcohol Sales
Active frameworkNot legal advice. This is a plain-language summary of Alberta's published rules, drawn from the sources listed here and last checked 2026-07-29. Since requirements can change, always check with the provincial liquor regulator before shipping or ordering alcohol.
Full disclaimerViewing as
Overview
Alberta lets residents order beer, wine, and spirits directly from an authorized producer in another participating province, shipped either straight from the producer or through a licensed third-party carrier. This runs under the 2026-07-21 CFTA Operating Agreement. Alberta and British Columbia already had a head start: a bilateral wine-only program between the two provinces has been running since January 2025 (the MOU was signed in July 2024), the first live direct-to-consumer program in Canada, ahead of the wider multilateral deal.
Viewing as
For consumers
If you live in Alberta, you can order beer, wine, or spirits directly from an authorized producer in another participating province. There's no special registration to receive a shipment. You do need to meet Alberta's legal drinking age of 18, and you should expect to show ID when the order arrives. Orders come either straight from the producer or through a licensed third-party shipper.
For producers
If you're an Alberta brewery selling out of province, you need a Class E manufacturer's licence (Small Manufacturer or Manufacturer) under the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act, plus a Class D Manufacturer's Offsales licence.
If you're based in another participating province and want to sell into Alberta, you register with Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC). That includes signing an Acknowledgement and Undertaking form and setting up monthly remittance and reporting. AGLC's approval process takes 2-3 weeks, and you need to wait for formal authorization before you can start shipping.
Cross-selling is allowed too. You're permitted to ship alcohol you didn't manufacture yourself.
AGLC collects an administrative fee, GST, and container/recycling amounts on DTC sales, all remitted monthly along with a shipment report. Questions go to DTCShipping@aglc.ca or 1-888-447-8289.
Frequently asked questions
Can an out-of-province brewery ship beer directly to Alberta customers?
Yes, once you've been approved through AGLC's DTC program. You can't accept Alberta orders before that approval comes through.
How do I register for AGLC's DTC program?
You apply directly with AGLC, set up your program and payment details, and wait for formal authorization. Approval typically takes two to three weeks, so plan ahead before your first Alberta order. See AGLC's DTC program page for the registration steps.
What fees and monthly reports apply once I'm authorized?
You submit monthly shipment reports and pay the applicable administrative fee, GST, and container or recycling amounts. Check AGLC's current fee schedule rather than relying on an old rate, since these can change.
Can I use Canada Post or a courier for Alberta deliveries?
Yes, as long as the carrier supports compliant alcohol delivery and verifies the recipient is at least 18. You're still responsible for making sure the whole delivery process meets Alberta's rules.
Can I sell other Canadian producers' products through Alberta's DTC program?
Alberta allows cross-selling in principle, but your own licence and AGLC authorization still control what you're allowed to offer. Confirm any marketplace or multi-producer catalogue with AGLC before you launch it.
Can I order alcohol online from another province and have it shipped to Alberta?
Yes, as long as you're ordering from an AGLC-authorized producer. Alberta's program covers several participating provinces and all the major alcohol categories.
Can I order craft beer directly from a Canadian brewery in Alberta?
Yes, if that brewery is approved for Alberta's DTC program and ships to your address.
Can I order wine, cider, or spirits from another province in Alberta?
Yes. Those categories can all be sold through an AGLC-authorized producer, though availability depends on what each producer is approved to ship.
Do I need to show ID when my order arrives in Alberta?
Yes. You need to be at least 18, and the delivery driver should check your ID before handing over the order.
Why does an out-of-province order cost more to ship to Alberta?
The delivered price can include shipping, GST, and container or recycling charges on top of the product price. Compare the full delivered total rather than just what's listed on the producer's site.